News & insights
24/03/26
Universities play a far greater role in attracting Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) than is often recognised and the opportunity is not limited to large, globally renowned institutions. In this new article, we explore how smaller and mid-sized universities can compete internationally by leveraging specialisation, regional collaboration, and stronger industry linkages, alongside the growing importance of micromultinationals as a driver of investment flows. Drawing on UK and international evidence, the piece sets out practical strategies for turning research and innovation into global investment outcomes.
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Many universities are creating research institutes to strengthen industry collaboration and research impact. But what distinguishes institutes that genuinely contribute to innovation ecosystems from those that remain internal academic networks? This short article explores how strategic institutes can help connect research strength with regional innovation clusters.
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11/03/26
03/03/26
The UKRI review (3 March 2026), Deepening University–Investor Links, authored by Tony Hickson, provides an important analysis of the current state of university–investor relationships in the UK. While focused on the UK context, its findings carry broader implications for universities internationally, particularly those seeking to strengthen the connection between research excellence, commercialisation, and measurable societal […]
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In our last blog post, ‘Buy European vs Open Europe: What Current EU Trade Debates Mean for BSOs Outside of the EU‘, we examined the strategic tension within Europe between industrial protection, strategic autonomy, and outward-facing trade openness. That debate now enters a new phase. Proposed tariff escalation from Donald Trump is emerging as a […]
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24/02/26
11/02/26
The European Union is entering a new phase in its trade and industrial policy debate. On one side, there are growing calls for stronger ‘Buy European’ procurement preferences to protect strategic sectors and ensure public money supports European industry. On the other, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has urged deeper Single Market integration […]
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Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) has long been a cornerstone of global economic integration, driving growth, innovation and job creation. As we enter 2026, however, the FDI landscape is undergoing profound change. Shaped by geopolitical realignment, rapid technological transformation, climate priorities and evolving regulatory frameworks, global investment flows are increasingly guided by factors beyond cost efficiency […]
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20/01/26
06/01/26
Global trade stands at a crossroads. After years of disruption—from the pandemic and geopolitical fragmentation to policy uncertainty and rapid technological change—the system that once defined globalisation is evolving into something more complex, volatile and opportunity-rich. Businesses, Business Support Organisations (BSOs) and policy makers must adapt to new structural realities to remain competitive and resilient. […]
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At Market Scoping International (MSI) we help governments, regions, and institutions unlock their potential to attract foreign direct investment (FDI). Our global experience demonstrates that successful investment strategies are about insight, relationships, and execution—not just geography. Guiding National Investment Policy MSI has collaborated with the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) to produce […]
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04/12/25
02/12/25
Universities operate in a rapidly evolving global environment. From the pressure to demonstrate societal impact to the need to commercialise research, strengthen partnerships, and build international visibility, institutions face complex challenges. To navigate these opportunities and risks effectively, universities increasingly rely on evidence-based insights and strategic guidance. Market Scoping International (MSI) partners with universities and […]
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For small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), breaking into international markets can feel like plotting a path through a complex maze – full of potential pathways, but impossible to navigate without the right support and guidance, particularly when targeting geographically and psychologically distant markets. Market Scoping International (MSI) has been proud to partner with exporTT since […]
