As the anchor educational institution in our region, the University of Derby engages with SMEs to offer practical solutions and advice that help businesses to grow, adapt and innovate. We support workforce development needs and make a direct contribution to the growth of the local economy.

Our Strategic Framework 2018-2030 provides ‘the foundations for our future success in a changing and globally dynamic environment’. We are committed to delivering excellence and opportunities for our students, staff and region.  Our strategic objectives focus on ‘moulding the next generation of game changers,’ ‘being a force for positive impact,’ and ‘opening doors for everyone.’

As a Civic University, we are strong advocates of social mobility; inspiring and creating opportunities for all people lies at the heart of our mission. As the only university in our city and county we take seriously our responsibility to drive the economic, social, cultural, educational and environmental prosperity of our region. We are proud to be an applied university of today and for tomorrow.

How Derby Business School Supports Business Growth

Derby Business School offers local SMEs a range of in-house skills training, business development programmes, and funding for growth and innovation. We are also proud to offer a part-funded Knowledge Transfer Partnership scheme (KTP) to connect you with our talented experts and graduates, and are especially keen to help enterprises looking to move to clean energy and responsible business.

Find out more about what we offer small businesses.

Read our case study on how we're helping small businesses in the East Midlands decarbonise.