Keele University's work with businesses and contributions to local growth have been praised in a national assessment from a government research body.

The latest Knowledge Exchange Framework (KEF6), published today by UK Research and Innovation (UKRI), has seen Keele ranked among the top universities in England for regional impact in several different areas.

The assessment looks at how universities share their knowledge with partners for the benefit of the economy and society.

Keele scored particularly highly this year for its work with local businesses, contributions to local growth and regeneration, public engagement, and collaboration with the public and third sectors.

Professor Mark Ormerod OBE, Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Provost, said: "I'm delighted that Keele has once again performed very strongly in the UK Knowledge Exchange Framework, in particular being ranked very highly nationally for our work with business and for our local growth and regeneration, and for our public and community engagement, our work with public and third sector organisations, and our research partnerships.

"These are testament to our civic mission and engagement and our important role in supporting economic growth, innovation and collaboration across the region."

The university said the recognition reinforces it's ongoing role in supporting economic growth, innovation, and collaboration across the region.

Highlights this year have included a leading life sciences company based at Keele which is expanding its headquarters and manufacturing operations after securing major government funding.

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Additionally, this year has seen work by a Keele researcher to improve community support for place-based decarbonisation schemes.

Keele also unveiled its plans for Keele Innovation District in 2026, will support 13,000 jobs and contribute £1 billion to the local economy, and support high value businesses including a planned new £500m centre for advanced ceramics research which has been proposed by technology company Lucideon.

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