Business, Economic and Social Policy

Why this research matters 

In a world of scarce and diminishing resources, we all need to help find the path to a sustainable future – to better businesses, economies and societies. For businesses, this could mean being efficient, profitable and supporting sustainable growth, in a way that minimises resource depletion and pollution, while being responsive and resilient to turbulences in the environment. For policy-makers, this means supporting ethical, evidence-based policymaking that improves income, access to justice and equal opportunities and the well-being of all members of society. It is shaping a stronger and safer society for all.

Our research is helping to bring about this future. It is supporting economic vibrancy and resilience, social justice and sustainable development – at regional, national and international levels. We focus on supporting both large businesses as well as the field of entrepreneurship, spin-outs, start-ups and SMEs, and influencing the government agenda on enterprises. We also focus on improving social cohesion, recovery, and regeneration.  

Our vision and approach 

Our research has a real-world focus with our aim to make a real difference to business, economy and society regionally, nationally and internationally. All our innovative research is founded on ethical principles and a commitment to advancing and sharing knowledge and impact on public policy.  

We approach business, economic and social policy with an open mind and in an independent way, alongside being conscious of but not constrained by history. Our commitment to identifying the underlying research questions and our unprecedented breadth and depth of expertise means we bring together research from different fields to develop the best, innovative and evidence-based solutions.

Our research

Research into business, economic and social policy spans a wide range of areas and can impact numerous stakeholder groups. Explore some of our research centres and case studies below to see how our existing research is making a change in the real world.