UNITE: Understanding Industry's Thoughts and Experiences of Research Partnerships: An Exploratory Investigation

🚀 New Guidance for Mental Health Innovation Partnerships

We’re excited to share the Principles of Industry–Academic Partnerships (PIP) — a co-produced framework designed to strengthen collaborations between digital mental health companies and academic institutions. The guidance was developed by NIHR MindTech HRC (Dr Charlotte Hall, Kelly-Marie Prentice, Olivia Hastings, Dr Bev Brown) and Nottingham Clinical Trials Unit (Dr Sophie Hall).

Developed through surveys, focus groups, and expert workshops, the PIP guidance outlines 14 actionable strategies to help overcome common barriers such as misaligned timelines, contracting complexities, and cultural differences. 

Whether you're in academia, industry, or supporting innovation in healthcare, we invite you to explore and share these resources: 


 

Principles of Engagement for Partnerships in Mental Health Research Infographic

pdfDownload the PDF version of the above infographic

 

Let’s work together to build smarter, more sustainable partnerships that drive real-world impact in mental health. 

 

 

Published Papers

  • Principles of Industry-Academic Partnerships Informed by Digital Mental Health Collaboration: Mixed Methods Study

    Principles of Industry-Academic Partnerships Informed by Digital Mental Health Collaboration: Mixed Methods Study

    Hall, S; Hastings, O; Prentice, K M; Brown, B; Andrews, J; Marner, S; Woocock, R; Marting, J; Hall, C L

    (2025)

    doi:10.2196/77439

    Abstract

    Background: Cross-sector collaboration is increasingly recognized as essential for addressing complex health challenges, including those in mental health. Industry-academic partnerships play a vital role in advancing research and developing health solutions, yet differing priorities and perspectives can make collaboration complex.

    Objective: This study aimed to identify key principles to support effective industry-academic partnerships, from the perspective of industry partners, and develop this into actionable guidance, which can be applied across sectors. Mental health served as a motivating example due to its urgent public health relevance and the growing role of digital innovation.

    Methods: Using a 3-stage, mixed-methods approach, we conducted a web-based survey of UK-based digital mental health companies (N=22) to identify key barriers and facilitators to industry-academic partnerships. This was followed by 2 focus groups (n=5) that explored emerging themes from the survey using thematic analysis. Finally, we conducted a workshop with industry representatives, researchers, clinicians, and PPI members to co-develop the Principles of Industry-Academic Partnerships (PIP) guidance.

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