University of Nottingham Ningbo China (UNNC) Innovation and Entrepreneurship Engagement 2023

Delegates at the Innovation and Enterprise event.

Entrepreneurs from University of Nottingham Ningbo China (UNNC) collaborated with Nottingham University Business School and the University of Nottingham Innovation Park (UNIP) for an information-sharing session on innovation and enterprise delivered by the Research and Knowledge Exchange Office (RKE).

The primary focus of the session was on innovation and enterprise, indicating a commitment to fostering entrepreneurial activities and the application of research in practical settings with a global perspective.

The event was attended by a diverse group, including academics, colleagues from Research and Innovation (R&I), entrepreneurs, and business partners such as the Department of Business and Trade (DBT) in the Midlands.

It was the first cross-campus engagement event in nearly four years and provided an overview of UNNC's history since it was established 19 years ago, giving a historical perspective on the current state of the university and its achievements.

Professor Tao Wu, the Dean of the Faculty of Science and Engineering at UNNC, highlighted the university's rapid development into a centre of research excellence. The comparison of the average impact factor of scientific research output with that of the prestigious C9 alliance universities emphasised the high quality and impact of UNNC's research.

Min Rose, Interim Director of the Research and Knowledge Exchange (RKE) Office, shared stories illustrating how UNNC's research is positively impacting economic, social, environmental, and cultural aspects in China. This aligns with the broader goal of universities to contribute meaningfully to society through impactful research. The event discussed the progress of the Li Dak Sum Incubator, UNNC’s central hub for innovation and entrepreneurship which serves students, staff, graduates, and partners both at home and abroad. UNNC’s journey of intellectual property (IP) commercialisation over the past two years was highlighted, showcasing efforts to translate research and innovation into commercial success.

The event was a comprehensive and collaborative initiative focused on promoting innovation, entrepreneurship, and the practical application of research. It served as a platform for knowledge exchange and collaboration among various stakeholders within and outside the university and we hope there will be many more in the future.