Yorkshire’s universities will lend their research expertise in a bid to boost the regional economy as part of a £3.9m collaboration.

The ambitious project – Yorkshire and Humber Policy Engagement and Research Network (Y-PERN) – began as an informal network during the pandemic, but has now been officially launched by Yorkshire Universities, a collective voice for 12 higher education institutions.

The University of Bradford will be part of the steering group and will supply a ‘policy fellow’ dedicated to researching topics likely to benefit the Yorkshire economy.

Professor David Spicer, from the University’s award-winning School of Management, said: “This is about engaging with policymakers on important decisions – decisions that will have a positive effect on businesses and organisations, and which will improve people’s lives.

“It’s an exciting project which is also about changing perceptions and looking at Yorkshire as the economic powerhouse of the north.”

Research England has awarded £3.9m in funding over three years to establish Y-PERN.

Y-PERN will allow policymakers to tackle the most pressing economic and social challenges facing the region and will help to improve Yorkshire’s future economic growth.

Yorkshire’s universities contribute £3bn each year to the region’s economy and play a critical role in generating jobs, creating innovation and driving productivity.