Commissioned by Unilever, the research will explore how large, established companies can collaborate with early stage firms, scientists and academia in order to deliver innovations to market more quickly and improve marketplace competitiveness.

Led by Dr Tim Minshall, Lecturer at the IfM, the 12-month study will examine the potential models, benefits, challenges and skillsets required for companies participating in open innovation. Working in partnership with the University's Centre for Entrepreneurial Learning, the IfM team will also explore how collaboration can be managed among a variety of different types of organisations, from academia and large companies to early stage and entrepreneurial firms.

Dr Sally Ann Forsyth, Business Development Director, Unilever Colworth Park commented: "This partnership with the University of Cambridge is an exciting new development for Unilever. It builds on our excellent relationship with the University and progress we have already made in this area. We look forward to working with Dr Minshall and his team to better understand how companies can make open innovation flourish and deliver differentiated products to improve marketplace competitiveness."