South London Partnership: aiding local growth and innovation
Supporting local growth with the South London Partnership
Helping South London's economy through partnership
As a South London anchor institution, Kingston University collaborates with the South London Partnership (SLP). The SLP is a coalition of five London boroughs (Croydon, Kingston, Merton, Richmond and Sutton), to promote regional economic growth. By connecting academic expertise and student talent with local businesses, Kingston University aids the community in improving business productivity, innovation and career opportunities.
Kingston University contributes to partnerships that grow businesses, increase local skills and support entrepreneurial development.
Find out more about South London Partnerships
The SLP region has a population of 1.2 million, 60,000 businesses and 440,000 jobs, with most businesses being small or medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
Key initiatives through Kingston University and SLP
The BIG South London Programme is a £6 million initiative bringing together the resources of Kingston and other local educational institutions to help South London’s businesses grow and innovate. Through this programme, we offer:
- Knowledge exchange: Connecting businesses with university expertise and resources.
- Business support hubs: Five hubs are being developed to provide shared workspaces, resources and advisory services.
Read more about the BIG South London programme’s impact on local business.
In 2021, SLP launched an innovation voucher scheme providing £5,000 vouchers to businesses for collaborative projects with Kingston and other universities. These projects support local innovation and post-pandemic recovery. Kingston University is currently working with nine businesses on such projects, with completion expected by spring 2022.
Learn more about Kingston’s involvement with the Innovation Voucher scheme.
Launched in late 2021, the BIG Innovation Support Programme helps businesses in South London with strategies for growth and innovation. Available to start-ups and established businesses, it includes:
- One-on-one innovation assessments with mentors.
- Workshops on innovation, intellectual property, funding and growth strategies.
This programme matches businesses with experts and research facilities to support growth in various fields. Kingston University collaborates with other regional universities to provide resources and expertise.
The South London Mayor's Construction Academy Hub connects local residents with construction training, apprenticeships and employment. This SLP project with Kingston University aims to meet the demands of South London’s growing construction sector and ensure job readiness.
The South London Careers Hub, funded by the Careers and Enterprise Company and the Greater London Authority, links businesses with local schools and colleges to create inclusive, practical career pathways for young people. Kingston University participates in this effort to promote accessible and effective careers education across South London.
Discover more about Kingston University’s involvement in the South London Careers Hub.
Impact of Kingston University’s Partnership with SLP
Driving economic recovery
Through Kingston University’s involvement in these strategic initiatives, local businesses gain access to critical resources, support and training. These projects strengthen local job markets, improve productivity and create lasting economic opportunities for South London.
Enhancing student and graduate opportunities
Kingston University students and graduates gain practical, hands-on experience, expanding their skills in business innovation, development and community engagement while supporting regional growth.
Increasing community access and inclusion
From shared workspaces to community-focused training programs, the SLP initiatives promote a connected and inclusive environment. They provide opportunities for diverse groups across South London to engage and thrive.
Get in touch to discuss business services
Whether you’re interested in research collaboration, accessing talent or exploring new technologies, Kingston University offers tailored solutions for all companies.
