A PARTNERSHIP which gives businesses support to access university expertise is continuing for another year.
The South Wales Chamber of Commerce has agreed a 12-month extension as one of the Strategic Partners for USW Exchange, which is based at the University of South Wales (USW).
[aoa id=”1″]The Chamber will continue to sponsor one of the USW Exchange meeting suites, and will use it as a hub for bringing businesses into contact with the skills and expertise at USW, as well as a base for their business engagement.[/aoa]
USW Exchange is the University’s hub for collaboration and creating connections with industry. As the front door for business, USW Exchange provides access and signposting to skills and facilities from across the University.
“We have a plethora of expertise ready for organisations to tap into here at USW” said Chris Wright, Manager at USW Exchange.
“As the initial point of contact for industry, Exchange is enabling new collaborative relationships with the University which enhance our student, academic and regional business communities.”
The agreement will also see the Chamber of Commerce continuing to support initiatives such as the University’s Business Clinic.
“I am thrilled that the South Wales Chamber of Commerce and USW will be continuing this partnership. Together we will be working to create a stronger trading environment in South Wales,” said Heather Myers, Chief Executive of the South Wales Chamber of Commerce
“Our partnership aims to enhance the connections between the University and local firms by giving students real-world business problems as a basis of study and research, and giving companies access to the University’s academic expertise, research capabilities, and specialist facilities.
“A series of business events and networking opportunities will take place over the next year to give Chamber members an insight into how USW can help them grow, and we will be promoting the University’s student placement scheme, which prepares students for the world of work and gives firms access to the knowledge of up and coming students.
“By working together, we hope to develop a resource at the University that the business community can use to help grow the local economy, and the talented employees that Welsh companies need.”
USW Exchange has welcomed more than 2,500 visitors from more than 350 organisations since launching in September 2017.
“With the support of its recently expanded Engagement Team, it facilitates opportunities for collaborative research, development and knowledge exchange; work placements and internships; expert contribution to learning and teaching; professional development though short courses and accredited programmes, and opens up access to academic venues and technical facilities spread throughout USW’s campuses in Newport, Cardiff and Pontypridd,” Chris Wright added.
“Businesses can utilise the purpose-built business Exchange at the Pontypridd Campus as a space for remote working, collaboration, and interaction.
“Add to that the schedule of business support events, networking opportunities and thought-leadership briefings available through the Exchange Network, and it is clear to see why businesses looking to grow and develop should link in to USW Exchange.”
