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ARU first in UK to receive prestigious NCEE award

Anglia Ruskin receives Entrepreneurial University Award for innovation impact

Anglia Ruskin University (ARU) has been rewarded for its commitment to fostering enterprise and entrepreneurship by becoming the first institution in the United Kingdom to receive the prestigious Entrepreneurial University Award from the National Centre for Entrepreneurship in Education (NCEE).

The Entrepreneurial University Award, launched by NCEE in 2024, is a rigorous accreditation scheme designed to recognise innovative, transformational universities making a significant impact on their communities and society. The award process includes a site visit, submission of a detailed application with supporting evidence, and a thorough evaluation by an independent expert review panel.

The independent review panel was particularly impressed by ARU’s leadership structure to support enterprise and student entrepreneurship, clear strategic priorities and diverse range of support programmes for students and staff.

ARU’s extensive extra-curricular activities, including the Entrepreneurs’ Community and Alumni Network delivered through its Enterprise Academy, as well as strong engagement with local communities and businesses through initiatives such as the ARISE Innovation Hubs, were highlighted as world-leading. These are underpinned by the effective integration of enterprise and entrepreneurship into the curriculum, supported by industry engagement.

Ceri Nursaw, NCEE Chief Executive, said:

“Anglia Ruskin University has demonstrated an exceptional commitment to embedding enterprise and entrepreneurship throughout its operations. Their comprehensive approach, from leadership to student engagement and community impact, sets a new standard for entrepreneurial universities in the UK. 

“We are thrilled to present ARU with this well-deserved recognition and look forward to seeing their continued innovation and success.”

Professor Gary Packham, Pro Vice Chancellor Student Enterprise & Entrepreneurship at Anglia Ruskin University (ARU), said:

“We are delighted to receive this accreditation in recognition of our commitment to transforming lives through innovative, inclusive and entrepreneurial education and research. We are proud of how our students, alumni and staff are all making a real difference and having such a positive impact within our region and the communities we serve.”

The NCEE Entrepreneurial University Award accreditation is valid for five years, during which ARU will join a global community of accredited entrepreneurial universities, sharing best practices and driving innovation in higher education.