LSE has welcomed the UK Government’s Independent Review of University Spin-out Companies, published today (21 November 2023).
The review, by Professor Irene Tracey and Dr Andrew Williamson, highlights the varied ways in which UK universities have contributed to society and the economy through the commercialisation of research, and outlines a series of recommendations to enable the UK to become a world-leader in innovation and develop more successful spin-out companies.
Through innovative programmes and developments such as the award-winning LSE Generate and the LSE-led Aspect network, the School is a leader in supporting entrepreneurship and commercialisation of social science research. The review emphasises how the kind of work being done at LSE – for example, supporting founders and providing links to venture funders – is crucial in creating successful spin-out ecosystems.
Responding to the review, Professor Susana Mourato, Vice President and Pro-Vice Chancellor (Research), said
“LSE welcomes this review of spin-outs and the findings that demonstrate the important role universities play in creating and achieving such a highly-successful innovation ecosystem that is competitive on a global scale.
“The translation of research into different forms of impact for non-academic beneficiaries is a key part of university agendas and indeed, this is reflected in LSE’s Research for the World Strategy, as well as in our award-winning entrepreneurial activity and social sciences commercialisation through endeavours such as Aspect.
“The review recommendations highlight the need for improved policies, guidance, data collation and investment to maximise opportunities for researchers, universities and the UK; LSE welcomes such notions and will use them to inform our continually evolving innovation culture at LSE.”
A full copy of the publication is available at Independent Review of University Spin-out Companies