How It Works
A simple, transparent process to connect businesses and communities with academic talent.
Submit a Challenge
Businesses and community groups submit their real-world challenges that need innovative solutions. Provide clear objectives, timelines, and expected outcomes.
- Define the problem statement
- Set clear deliverables
- Specify timeline and resources
Match & Engage
Challenges are matched with relevant university faculties based on expertise. Faculty members invite students to form teams and participate.
- AI-powered matching with faculties
- Faculty reviews and approves challenges
- Students form collaborative teams
Develop Solutions
Student teams work on challenges with faculty guidance, applying academic knowledge to solve real business and community problems.
- Regular check-ins and Q&A
- Faculty mentorship throughout
- Businesses and community groups feedback on progress
Submit & Win
Student teams submit their solutions for review. Business and community partners evaluate and provide feedback, with winning teams receiving recognition.
- Professional feedback from industry
- Certificates and recognition
- Unlocking potential career opportunities
Benefits for Everyone
The Lab creates value for all stakeholders across industry and higher education.
For Businesses and Community Groups
- Access fresh perspectives and innovative ideas
- Connect with future talent pipeline
- Build and develop sustainable university partnerships
For Students
- Real-world project experience
- Industry exposure and networking
- Portfolio building opportunities
- Enhanced employability
For Universities
- Industry-relevant curriculum
- Student engagement and motivation
- Research collaboration opportunities
- Enhanced graduate outcomes
Ready to Get Started?
IFD are running pilot programmes in Universities across the UK, if you are interested in taking part, please contact our team.
Get in touch