Aston University launches Civic Agreement 2030 to drive socioeconomic transformation in Birmingham

Aston University has announced the launch of its Civic Agreement 2030, reaffirming its commitment to positive impact and growth in Birmingham and the wider West Midlands.

The Agreement, which builds on the university’s rich legacy and bold 2030 strategy, sets out seven commitments aimed at supporting economic growth, education, research, community empowerment, health, aspiration, and sustainability.

These pledges are underpinned by targeted actions and partnerships designed to deliver measurable impact across the region.

The importance of Birmingham as an attractive destination to live, study, and do business is also highlighted by the Agreement alongside the university’s ongoing support for the city’s growth and regeneration.

The Quadruple Helix model – linking academia, industry, government, and society – remains central to Aston’s mission, with all partners committed to working together to champion the city nationally and internationally.

Professor Aleks Subic, Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive of Aston University, said: “Aston University has always believed in the power of partnerships to drive socio-economic transformation and inclusive growth in our city and region.

“Our Civic Agreement 2030 embodies this belief, bringing together universities, businesses, government, and communities to tackle challenges, spark innovation, and create opportunities for all.

“Through our strategic partnerships, we aim to help create a brighter, more inclusive future for Birmingham.”

Richard Parker, mayor of the West Midlands, said: “Aston University's Civic Agreement perfectly aligns with my growth plan and vision for the West Midlands.

“By working together – across government, academia, business and communities – we can make this the best place to learn, live, work, visit and invest."

Leading partners from key sectors across the region are coming together as part of the Civic Agreement – including health, technology, education, business, government and community development – with a commitment to supporting Birmingham’s growth and transformation.

Signatories include Aston Students' Union, Aston University STEM Multi-Academy Trust, the Aston Villa Foundation, Birmingham Anchor Network, Birmingham City Council, Birmingham City of Sanctuary Committee, Birmingham Community Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham Health Partners, Birmingham Women’s and Children’s NHS Foundation Trust, Citizens UK, The Dudley Group NHS Foundation Trust, Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce, Rigby Group, The Royal Orthopaedic Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Tech WM, West Midlands Combined Authority, and West Midlands Growth Company.

Aston University continues to be a catalyst for change, a trusted partner, and an advocate for Birmingham’s role as a national and global leader in skills, enterprise, and innovation.

The people in the image, clockwise from bottom left:

Diane Wake – CEO, Dudley Group NHS Foundation Trust
Max Mcloughlin – CEO, Aston Students’ Union
Shari Brown – chair, Birmingham City of Sanctuary Committee
Daniel Locke-Wheaton – executive principal, Aston University STEM MAT
Guy Rippon - head of foundation and community partnerships, Aston Villa Foundation
Neil Rami – CEO, West Midlands Growth Company
Rajdeep Kandola – deputy CEO, Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce
Daniel Cartter – head of innovation, SCC (representing the Rigby Group)
Andy Hague – CEO, TechWM
Richard Kirby – CEO, Birmingham Community Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust
Matthew Hartland – CEO, Royal Orthopaedic Hospital NHS Foundation Trust
Conrad Parke – coordinator, Birmingham Anchor Network
Cllr John Cotton – leader, Birmingham City Council
Richard Parker – mayor of the West Midlands
Jonathan Pearson – chair, Birmingham Health Partners
Professor Aleks Subic – Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive, Aston University
Mashkura Begum – co-chair, Citizens UK Birmingham