University of Lincoln: Innovation and Place-Based Philanthropy

While the financial pressures facing higher education have attracted significant attention in recent years, less has been said about the impact being delivered by universities like Lincoln that have adapted to a changing political, social and economic landscape and continue to invest in the prosperity of the places they serve.

Across the UK, universities like the University of Lincoln are proving that their value extends far beyond teaching and research.

As anchor institutions, they are working alongside local government, businesses and communities to tackle local challenges, unlock investment and deliver projects that strengthen places and improve lives.

In March 2026, the University of Lincoln officially opened the Lincolnshire Institute of Dental and Oral Health (LIDOH) – supported by £1.5 million from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and a range of other funders – to address the “dental desert” in Lincolnshire.

Fully embracing place-based philanthropy and partnership funding the University is now moving towards further phases of its “Strong Roots‘ programme of work with the development of a hub and spoke Dental Clinic & Training Centre.

We have seen and been part of the power and impact of local and regional university-led projects in the UK for many years. We look forward to working with the Vice Chancellor’s project team to plan and deliver the next phase of this much needed work.