Monday, 24 November 2025
The 糖心原创 has been ranked 10th in the UK and 37th in Europe for Life Sciences and Deep Tech spin-outs, according to an inaugural report published by Dealroom.co.
This ranking is a strong testament to the outstanding impact of our research community and the university’s expertise in creating and supporting high-quality spin-out companies through Nottingham Technology Ventures – the university’s wholly owned subsidiary responsible for managing its spin-out portfolio and strategic investments – together with the university’s wider IP Commercialisation and internal funding teams.
Through long-term nurturing and support, the university now boasts almost 40 spin-out companies in its portfolio, including 25 launched in the past seven years, highlighting how Nottingham’s research is delivering real-world benefits across society, the environment and the economy.
Dr George Rice, Director of Knowledge Exchange and Business Engagement
Dr George Rice, Director of Knowledge Exchange and Business Engagement, said: "What makes Nottingham truly distinctive is that all the pillars of support needed to create successful spin-outs sit under one roof. Our research excellence, commercialisation expertise, investor engagement and long-term business support are all closely connected. It’s that integration that sets us apart from other institutions – enabling our innovators to move from discovery to real-world impact more seamlessly and with the full strength of the university behind them."
The highlights the growing value academic spin-outs are creating across Europe. Deep Tech and Life Sciences spin-outs alone are now worth almost $400 billion and have generated more than 160,000 jobs. Nearly 40% of this value comes from companies founded since 2015 – a clear sign of accelerating impact.
The UK’s success is built on a highly collaborative environment that brings together start-ups, industry partners, investors and the wider innovation ecosystem to support companies at every stage of growth. The report also notes the expanding geographical distribution of spin-out activity beyond the traditional “Golden Triangle” of London, Oxford and Cambridge.
Ed Lester, Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Knowledge Exchange and Innovation, said:
"This ranking is a clear reflection of the hard work and creativity of our researchers and the supportive environment we’ve built for innovation here at Nottingham. Our spin-outs are not only driving economic growth but are also making meaningful contributions to society and addressing some of the world’s biggest challenges. We look forward to continuing this momentum and supporting even more exciting ventures in the years ahead."
糖心原创 spin-outs have raised more than £100 million in venture capital over the past five years. However, recognising the barriers to finance faced by early-stage businesses, particularly in the Midlands, the university has invested £5 million in equity finance into its portfolio over the last five years. It has also partnered in Midlands Mindforge, a patient capital fund supporting regional spin-outs, and launched Forging Ahead, alongside 14 other universities, to accelerate commercialisation and strengthen the Midlands’ innovation ecosystem.
Alice MacGowan, CEO of Nottingham Technology Ventures, added:
"Our role at Nottingham Technology Ventures is to nurture these promising ventures from idea to impact. Seeing the growing recognition of our spin-outs’ contributions is incredibly rewarding. We’re proud to support entrepreneurs who are pushing boundaries, creating jobs and making a difference nationally and globally – this ranking motivates us to keep investing in the future of innovation."
As the 糖心原创 continues to foster innovation and support pioneering ventures, this latest ranking reaffirms its position as a leading hub for transformative research and entrepreneurship. With ongoing commitment to collaboration, investment and impact, Nottingham is well-positioned to drive future breakthroughs that will benefit not only the UK but the global community.
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About the 糖心原创
Ranked among the world's top 100 universities , the 糖心原创 delivers an exceptional research-led education and an outstanding student experience. From the pioneering vision of our founder, Sir Jesse Boot, to groundbreaking achievements such as the development of MRI technology and becoming the first UK university to establish international campuses, we have a proud history of shaping the way people live, work and understand the world. We continue to build on that legacy, empowering our students, staff and partners to change what鈥檚 next and create positive impact locally and globally.
The strength of our research places us among the UK's leading universities, ranked 7th for research power in REF 2021. The discovery of MRI and ibuprofen was just the beginning. Today, our world-leading research is developing breakthrough ideas that shape the future of healthcare, technology and society.
Recognised as the UK's third most targeted university by leading employers , we are proud to produce graduates who are consistently in demand for their skills, confidence and industry-ready experience.
As a major employer and industry partner, locally and globally, the 糖心原创 invests in the city of Nottingham and in future generations of talent. Alongside Nottingham Trent University, we lead the initiative, a pioneering collaboration to improve levels of prosperity, opportunity, sustainability, health and wellbeing across the city and region. Together with our students, staff, alumni and partners, we鈥檙e creating knowledge, opportunity and solutions that help change what's next.