What is UoL 4.0 Challenge?

Work with University Students on the Digital Challenges of Your Business

The imperative to adopt digital technology to compete, innovate and grow has never been stronger. Digital transformation provides many opportunities for businesses, including the potential to access new markets, scale up production, and cooperate in a transnational environment. The Covid-19 pandemic has provided a further catalyst, with many businesses forced to find alternative ways of delivering goods and services. 

What is UoL 4.0 Challenge?

Run by Lincoln International Business School, UoL 4.0 Challenge engages businesses and students to explore opportunities for digitalisation. Teams of students are paired with businesses to explore how digital technology could lead to new commercial ideas and new ways of interacting with customers and suppliers. The project requires limited time commitment from businesses, with up to two meetings with students.

What can it do for your company?

The project offers a “fresh pair of eyes” on your business, with Operations Management students who use various tools and techniques to explore how business challenges can be addressed. Engagement in the project will provide the potential for adoption of digital technology and implementation of industry 4.0 solutions. You will also have access to a Growth Hub advisor to assist with advice and access to grants to implement solutions.

How does it help our students?

Students work in teams to apply their knowledge and problem-solving skills to business problems.  They gain insight into real world problems, and improve their range of experience and skills.

How Do I Take Part?

If you are an SME in the region and are interested in taking part in the next cohort, please get in touch with Liz Price (lprice@lincoln.ac.uk) or Herbert Mapfaira (hmapfaira@lincoln.ac.uk). The project takes place throughout the year, running in two academic terms:

  • 1st term: October- December
  • 2nd term: February-May

 This project is part-funded through European Regional Development Fund and eligibility criteria for participation will apply.