The 2003 White Paper The Future of Higher Education asserts that “the involvement of universities and colleges in regional, social and economic development is critical.” This can be in the form of knowledge and skills transfer, or through regeneration or other projects. Most institutions are also significant employers, which can have a big effect on regional and local economies. Regions it is argued are beginning to play a significant role in the global economy.
Most institutions have developed partnerships with their Regional Development Agency (RDA) and in many cases with other institutions, sometimes through the auspices of the RDA. Significant contributions can be made to Regional Economic Strategies and other initiatives, academic, social and economic. Such partnerships can have a major impact on the institutional profile in the region. Links with schools and colleges, which may form part of a widening participation strategy, can also improve student recruitment. Increasingly funding has a regional dimension, though it is not yet clear how this will develop following the announcement of the closure of the RDAs.
In December 2009 the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills published 'Partnerships for Growth' , a framework for the development of regional strategies in England, in particular related to economic development, innovation and skills.
The HEFCW has a clear regional strategy for the planning and delivery of higher education in 
Wales.
Governors may be involved with the development of regional strategies, or regional issues may be included in other areas of the corporate plan. Institutions in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland will also have to plan strategically in relation to their national agendas.
The contribution of universities to their communities is well summarised in an article in the Higher.
Powerpoint presentation:
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