Manchester maintains highest KEF6 rating for IP and commercialisation

The University of Manchester has maintained the highest possible rating for ‘IP and commercialisation’ in the latest Knowledge Exchange Framework (KEF6), recognising continued strength in translating University research and intellectual property into new technologies, spinout companies and commercial opportunities.

The result follows an incredible year of commercialisation activity led by the University of Manchester Innovation Factory, with 11 new spinout companies launched during 2025/26 and more than £65 million of external investment secured by companies across our portfolio.

The Innovation Factory now supports a portfolio of 83 spinout companies valued at more than £500 million, alongside a growing pipeline with the potential to become future spinout companies and licensing opportunities.

As the University’s dedicated technology transfer office, the Innovation Factory works with researchers to develop early-stage ideas, helping identify commercial potential, protect intellectual property and determine the most appropriate route to market. Its support continues through licensing and spinout creation, investment readiness and the longer-term development of companies within its portfolio.

Dr Catherine Headley, CEO of the University of Manchester Innovation Factory, said:

“We are incredibly excited and proud by what we are building here at the Innovation Factory, the KEF rating really reflects all of the hard work that goes into delivering high quality spinouts and licensing and our recent successes evidence the growth trajectory that we are on”.

Published by Research England, part of UK Research and Innovation, the Knowledge Exchange Framework provides an annual assessment of how universities across England exchange knowledge with businesses, public organisations and communities and how this activity contributes to the economy and society.

Our work supports The University of Manchester’s bold ambitions for innovation within its 2035 Strategy, strengthening the routes through which research can contribute to economic growth, new technologies and new businesses.

The full KEF6 results can be viewed through the Knowledge Exchange Framework dashboards.