Putting missions in their place: micro-missions and the role of universities in delivering challenge-led innovation

ABSTRACT

We draw on first-hand experience and empirical evidence to address current concerns that the mission approach carries too much emphasis on technological innovation and top-down state-led action. We identify the concept of smaller scale ‘micro-missions’ that address place-based challenges. In so doing, we show a role for universities that extends beyond the entrepreneurial triple helix and demonstrate how a mission approach can be effective beyond an emphasis exclusively on science and technology and economic outcomes. We highlight universities as safe, convening spaces and their role in bringing together local actors in designing and delivering a micro-missions approach.

KEYWORDS:

• universities
• place
• micro-missions
• public services
• innovation

JEL:

• O31
• O38
• R11
• R58

DISCLOSURE STATEMENT

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.

Notes

1. Y Lab is a public services innovation lab originally established by Cardiff University and Nesta in 2015, and now wholly operated by the university (https://ylab.wales/index.php/who-we-are/our-story).

2. Whereby investments are recycled back into the CCR’s main funds on maturity; https://www.business-live.co.uk/economic-development/plans-100m-cardiff-capital-region-19960913.

3. The Russell Group is the representative body for the UK’s ‘research-intensive, world-class universities’; https://russellgroup.ac.uk/about/.

4. A provider of services to support the design and implementation of missions in the Welsh health and social care sector (https://sbriwales.co.uk/) (accessed on 6 January 2023).

5. See https://www.challengefund.wales/news/the-sustainable-production-supply-of-food-challenge-is-now-open-for-applications/ (accessed 6 January 2023).

6. See, for example, https://www.monmouthshire.gov.uk/infuse/mapping-the-ccr/ (accessed 6 January 2023).