What We Do
Launched in 1999 by Prof. Trevor Farren, Professor of Practice in Business Development and Innovation, the Business Partnership Unit (BPU) serves as a vital link between academia and industry. Focussed on fostering innovation and collaboration, the BPU drives commercial success, knowledge exchange and entrepreneurial initiatives within the School of Chemistry.
Key functions of the BPU include:
- Facilitating partnerships between academia and industry to advance research and innovation.
- Supporting technology and patent disclosures to bring groundbreaking ideas to market.
- Assisting academics in securing investment for industry-focussed research projects.
- Providing training in innovation, business, knowledge transfer and entrepreneurial skills for staff and students within the School.
Welcome to the University of Nottingham Business Partnership Unit – your bridge between academia and industry. The BPU is the gateway to establishing partnerships between businesses and our world-class academic expertise and facilities, driving real world impact. Whether you’re a business looking to explore new opportunities, solve research challenges or form strategic partnerships, or an academic looking to enhance your research through industry collaboration, our team is here to help.
The BPU is comprised of a multidisciplinary team of talented scientists with diverse scientific expertise. Their combined experience in commercial activities, knowledge transfer and entrepreneurial ventures equips them to deliver exceptional value to both academic researchers and industry partners.

The BPU team (October 2024).