The Technology Strategy Board (TSB) and the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) have recently announced a £2.5 million initiative to stimulate collaborative research projects in the retail sector. In particular they are encouraging projects that focus on:

• the changing nature of the UK high street and changing retail spaces;
• e-commerce, m-commerce and omni-channel retailing;
• consumer data.

Calls will be launched later in February at an event in London; one will specifically seek proposals for Knowledge Transfer Partnerships (KTP) addressing retail challenges.

KTP is a long-established national government scheme which provides up to 67% grant funding to enable companies to become more innovative, competitive and profitable by engaging in knowledge transfer with universities. University of Brighton academics are well placed to support KTPs in the retail sector, having spear-headed retail KTPs with partners including Rick Stein.

To find out more about partnering with the University of Brighton to get involved with the retail sector initiative contact:

Shona Campbell, KTP Manager Tel: 01273 642 435 Mobile: 07967 676 061

Email: s.e.campbell@brighton.ac.uk Web: www.brighton.ac.uk/ktp