New paper sets out a vision for FE colleges as drivers of innovation 

Further education colleges have a vital role to play in driving innovation, productivity and economic growth – but their contribution is too often overlooked. A new Gatsby-commissioned paper argues that colleges should be recognised not only as providers of skills, but as strategic partners helping businesses adopt new technologies, improve processes and develop new products and services.  

Written by innovation specialist Elaine Baxter, A Future Vision for the Role of FE Colleges in Innovation explores how colleges can become central to the UK’s innovation ecosystem. The paper argues that while universities are widely recognised for generating breakthrough discoveries, FE colleges excel at incremental innovation – helping employers, particularly SMEs, translate ideas into practical improvements that boost productivity and competitiveness.  

To unlock this potential, the paper sets out a practical vision for change. It identifies the leadership, culture, funding, partnerships, capability and infrastructure needed for colleges to play a more strategic role in supporting innovation. This includes strengthening relationships with universities, employers and local partners, creating more opportunities for staff and students to engage in innovation, and ensuring colleges are recognised within regional and national innovation strategies.  

The publication builds on Gatsby’s wider programme of work FE supporting business innovation | Gatsby Education exploring how FE colleges are already supporting innovation through applied research, employer collaboration, consultancy, workforce development and student enterprise. However, these activities often depend on individual leadership or short-term funding rather than being embedded within national policy.  

“By recognising colleges as key partners in innovation – not simply providers of education and training – policymakers have an opportunity to strengthen local economies, support business growth and help more employers turn ideas into real-world impact.” 

Daniel Sandford Smith, Director of Programmes, Gatsby Charitable Foundation 

 Download A future vision for the role of FE colleges in innovation here