By addressing pressing policy challenges through rigorous research and analysis, the Bennett School of Public Policy contributes to informed decision-making processes at different levels of governance and society. Our researchers presented their work to delegates at the Annual Conference 2026.
Shaping the climate of ideas
By Owen Garling and Dr Beth Kitson
How can research and engagement shape how policy problems are understood and addressed? In
complex policy environments, shaping policy requires strong relationships and sustained, question driven inquiry spanning disciplines and sectors. Here we examine how knowledge is generated, shared, and applied through research, engagement, and impact at the Bennett School. Enlarge the poster (PDF)
More than just Plug and Play: early evidence on organisational capital and AI adoption
by Nghi Nguyen
Our study uses unique survey data from UK companies to investigate how structured management
is associated with early adoption of AI. We find that better managed companies are more likely to
use AI, accounting for business characteristics such as age, size, industry and location.
Start-ups and scale-ups in UK technology sectors
by Nghi Nguyen
In this policy brief, we examine the strengths and weaknesses of the UK’s start-up ecosystem.
More specifically, we discuss the three system-building factors (access to markets, access to talent,
knowledge clusters and network); funding opportunities; and exits and scaling up strategies.
From reviews to real output
Our study uses unique survey data from UK companies to investigate how structured management
is associated with early adoption of AI. We find that better managed companies are more likely to
use AI, accounting for business characteristics such as age, size, industry and location.
Whose economic growth?
US GDP growth appears exceptional compared to European peers, but excluding top earners
reveals a different story. When income of the top 10% is removed, UK and German growth nearly
matches US rates (2013-2023). This suggests official figures mask inequality’s role, with most
Americans experiencing far more modest gains.
Understanding creative industry growth: evidence from national trends and Creative UK’s portfolio
This research explores the growing economic and social impact of the UK creative industries,
examining how definitions and data shape understanding of the sector and highlighting challenges
around measurement, finance and regional disparities. Drawing on national trends and Creative
UK’s investment portfolio, it examines how targeted investment and policy can support inclusive,
place-sensitive growth.
From school to work: tackling skills mismatch and building pathways for young people in East Anglia
East Anglia faces a persistent skills mismatch, limiting young people’s successful transition from
school to work. Strong labour demand in clean energy, digital and innovation sectors contrasts with
weaker educational participation and limited technical pathways in many parts of the region. This
work explores local gaps and areas for improvement to inform policy discussion.
Pragmatic pluralism: how the global majority is building AI governance
The global majority is not waiting for the US, EU or China to settle AI governance. Analysis of 327
policy documents from APEC, ASEAN, the African Union, and G20 reveals a pragmatic pluralism:
different regulatory tools achieve equivalent outcomes, capacity-building is a governance
mechanism, and shared problems drive cooperation.
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The views and opinions expressed in this post are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of the Bennett Institute for Public Policy.
