News article

The University of Sussex continues to excel nationally in knowledge exchange and innovation. The Knowledge Exchange Framework (KEF) 2026 results places Sussex in the top 20% of large research-intensive universities in four areas: working with businesses; working with the public and third sector; intellectual property and commercialisation, and research partnerships. 

Published by Research England, the KEF provides a benchmark for how effectively universities work with businesses, public sector organisations, charities and communities to turn research and expertise into real-world impact. 

The latest results recognised the University’s strengths in working with businesses and the public sector through Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) projects, consultancy, policy engagement and social enterprise and commercialising research through spin-out companies and intellectual property. 

The University also improved its position in Continuing Professional Development (CPD) and graduate start-ups. 

Vice-Chancellor and President of the University of Sussex, Professor Sasha Roseneil, said: “It is fantastic to see that the University of Sussex has top rankings amongst comparable large research-intensive universities in four of the seven measures in these latest KEF results. From supporting business innovation and pioneering spin-out companies to shaping public policy and working closely with communities, knowledge exchange is integral to our mission as a civic and global university. 

“These results reflect the University’s long-standing commitment to working with external partners to address major societal challenges, and the dedication of colleagues across the University to create impact through collaboration.” 

In recent years, the University has worked with more than 900 businesses and public sector organisations to collaborate on research and development projects, consultancy and facilities and equipment hire. It has also supported more than 180 academic-led spin-out companies and graduate start-ups, granted more than 50 licences enabling organisations to use University intellectual property, and helped local businesses to increase investment in a single year by £24.2m in 2025. 

The University is helping translate cutting-edge research into real-world impact. Most recently, Universal Quantum, a leading University of Sussex spin-out in quantum technologies secured $100M investment in Series A funding to accelerate the development of large-scale quantum computers, further strengthening Sussex’s reputation as a hub for innovation and entrepreneurship. 

The University’s strategy, Sussex 2035: Creating Progressive Futures, highlights the University’s commitment to deepening its engagement with businesses, policymakers, public sector organisations and communities. The latest KEF results underline the strength of these partnerships and the University’s ambition to deliver economic, social and environmental benefits at local, national and global levels.