Regional engagement

From the outset in 1900, the University of Birmingham was founded on principles of being a civic institution where students from all religions and backgrounds were accepted on an equal basis. 

The University prides itself on being an institution that provides opportunities to convene and influence the future shape of the region.   

We work to address challenges, including meeting a growing skills and education gap, driving innovation and progress, enriching cultural life, and supporting economic growth in the region, including as an employer and consumer.  

In our 125th year, we recommitted ourselves to these founding principles with the Birmingham Civic Agreement.

Key facts about our regional engagement

The University is a driver of growth for our region and nation. According to an economic and social impact report we commissioned London Economic to produce, the University contributes £4.4bn to the UK economy every year. Our research is helping to grow jobs and bring investment to the region. The University of Birmingham is one of the city’s biggest employers; its research and knowledge transfer activities contribute £1.4 billion to the economy, and our teaching is worth £1.3 billion. 

• The university supports nearly 20,000 jobs
• 1 in 50 jobs in the West Midlands are at the University
• Every £1 spent on research generates £6.49 in positive impact for the UK economy
• 36% of our students are first-generation from their family to attend university
• We train more than 5,300 teachers, social workers, nurses, doctors and dentists
• We work with more than 250 schools and 25,000 pupils each year to raise aspirations about their future in higher education

Contact us

Get in touch with us if you are interested in partnering with us:   

• If you are a school, contact our Outreach team
• If you are a business looking to collaborate with us, contact our Business Engagement team
• If you are looking to partner with us in tackling an issue in your area, contact City REDI
• If you are a local journalist, contact our press office
• If you are interested in policy, contact our public affairs team
• If you are a community group, contact our PACE team