The Innovation HUB (UCAiHUB) Funding Scheme for Impact Projects aims to support staff members to undertake projects that have the potential to create social, economic, environmental or cultural impacts for industry, business or the community by building on expertise or knowledge in the University.
Over the past three years, the UCA Innovation Hub has been an epicenter of growth and collaborative success, reflecting our dedication to Knowledge Exchange (KE) and innovation. With an investment of £427,848 from 2021 to 2024, our commitment has catalyzed a range of pioneering projects and partnerships. The 2022/23 funding cycle saw a purposeful investment of £128,359.
As we advanced into the 2023/24 with 59 project collaborations and 139 partners to date. This network signifies not just a quantitative increase, but a qualitative enhancement in the impact and scope of our work.
For UCA staff, find out more about the KE Funding Scheme (incl. guidance, application template and budget).
In 2023-24, UCA backed 30 innovative projects with a £190,000 investment, engaging with 70 partners to enrich Knowledge Exchange activities. Highlights include the mesmerizing Farnham Craft Month featuring glass blowing and artist talks, the cutting-edge “Create Magic” virtual production workshop, and transformative dance workshops for those living with M.S. Other notable initiatives ranged from the “Eat Outside the Box!” food and creativity festival to significant collaborations like the “Venice Biennale Fellow Partnership” and pioneering projects such as the “Advancements in Circular Cricket Gear” and “Applications of Generative AI to the Performing Arts.” This diverse array of projects underscores UCA’s commitment to advancing creative research, fostering meaningful partnerships, and cultivating a vibrant community of innovation.
In 2022-23, the University for the Creative Arts (UCA) significantly advanced its Knowledge Exchange (KE) initiatives, investing £128,359 through KE funds and the Impact Acceleration Award (IAA). This investment supported eight specific Research England KE activities with £36,212, marking a notable progression from previous years. The period witnessed the foundation of the UCA Innovation Hub, catalyzing a transformative impact with 20 collaborative projects involving 50 external partners. This growth highlights UCA’s commitment to fostering innovation and expanding its network, setting a new benchmark for industry collaboration and research excellence.