Supporting Economic Growth Award - Highly Commended

University of Ulster - Supporting Economic Growth

The University of Ulster has a major impact on the Northern Ireland economy with a turnover in excess of £120 million and 3,500 members of staff . The University recognises that it has a unique role to play in contributing to the growth of the social economy sector. In its Corporate Plan, it sets “Contributing to the economic, social and cultural inclusion in the region” as a cross cutting aim.

What they did

The University of Ulster provides bespoke services and training, as well as access to other relevant mainstream University support mechanisms. The focus is on helping social enterprises to provide a competitive, innovative and client-focused service, which helps them to contribute to economic growth and in turn strengthens their social impacts. The University has carried out a number of activities to achieve this aim.

Social enterprise training - Accredited at MSc and Advanced Diploma level
Student placement – both long term and short term
Networking events through the Knowledge Club – key awareness raising activity
Consultancy expertise – through a one day “taster” programme
Research activity – through the Science Shop
Academic expertise – through strategic partnerships with key SE stakeholders
Knowledge Transfer programmes – 2 year initiative offering graduate and academic expertise
Board representation by academics – bringing specialist expertise to SME’s

The University of Ulster’s dedication to the social economy sector is clearly evident through the resources it has invested. A recent 3 year project for support to the sector had a budget of £175k. It also employs a dedicated full time staff member with responsibility for leading engagement with colleagues and key stakeholders within the social enterprise sector.

Impact

Avenues for working with local communities who would not normally have come into contact with a University have been opened.
Social enterprise groups have demonstrated an ability and confidence to tender for work previously considered to be out of their reach.

Highly Commended in the NI Supporting Economic Growth Award 2008