Liverpool John Moores University and Knowsley Chamber of Commerce have signed a partnership agreement to support businesses and drive economic growth in the borough.
The Strategic Partnership Agreement will see the two organisations collaborate and share expertise to help local businesses start-up, grow and prosper, as well as creating opportunities for students and graduates.
LJMU already works closely with a wide range of businesses in Knowsley, providing expert support, research and knowledge exchange to encourage innovation and increase productivity.
Meanwhile, a broad range of employers in the borough provide employment opportunities and experience for LJMU students, including through the university’s successful degree apprenticeship programmes.
LJMU already has a significant presence in Knowsley across different sectors and this partnership will strengthen those connections and enable us to work even more closely with the Chamber and businesses across the borough.
Dr Aileen Jones, Pro-Vice-Chancellor (External Engagement and Partnerships) at LJMU, said: “We’re delighted to have signed a strategic partnership agreement with Knowsley Chamber.
“The university has well-established partnerships with a number of Knowsley businesses to deliver degree apprenticeships, while initiatives such as our Horizons project and the Low Carbon Eco-Innovatory support companies in the borough to innovate and become more productive, efficient and sustainable.
“LJMU is also committed to supporting SMEs with free pro bono advice from our Business Clinic, while we engage with schools in the borough to raise aspirations and create opportunities for Knowsley’s workforce of the future. Together, LJMU and Knowsley Chamber can create opportunities to help local businesses thrive and to drive economic growth in the borough.”
Rachel Peak, Chief Executive of Knowsley Chamber, said: “We are incredibly pleased to have LJMU as a strategic partner of Knowsley Chamber. Through strengthening our partnership we will work to support aspiration and development across our networks.
“The Chamber’s extensive local knowledge, combined with the university’s academic and innovation expertise, can provide even greater support to businesses of all sizes and sectors, be it through workforce development, access to research, or fostering and supporting innovation and development.
“We look forward to working with the team at LJMU on this collaboration to create meaningful, long-term benefits for our businesses, the borough and wider Chamber members.”