STEMBUG1 or STEM Business University Gateway is a response to the need for clear and consistent access to Higher Education skills and capabilities relevant to employers and employees2.
Evidence from employers suggests that businesses that engage with universities benefit from having access to: 
- a supply of skilled graduates and postgraduates for recruitment
- highly skilled scientists and researchers
- the latest research and cutting-edge technology
- international networks of academics
- continuing professional development for staff and management
The STEMBUG project is funded through the National HE STEM Programme3 North West Spoke based at Manchester Metropolitan University and led by the North West Universities Association.
The STEM-focused (Science, Technology, Engineering, & Maths) online tool provides information and resources to companies direct and to intermediaries operating in this sphere in an efficient and transparent fashion. STEMBUG contains information on placements, internships, Knowledge Transfer Partnerships (KTPs), higher apprenticeships, recruitment contacts and a large database of HEI expertise (research capacity, facilities etc) across STEM. The site offers the chance to:
Explore the training provision available from various higher education providers in one place then link through to the individual providers’ websites to find out more detail
- Find out which university has research expertise in the areas of particular interest to you
- Understand more about student placements and how such placements can add value to your work to grow your business
- Discover how our top research could be applied to your business to enhance your product portfolio
- Advertise your vacancies to hundreds of graduates to find the right skills and knowledge to help your business grow and be more productive.
STEMBUG can be accessed online at www.stembug.co.uk and followed at Twitter on
@STEMBUG1. If you require further information on STEMBUG, please email Dr Adrian Toland at a.toland@mmu.ac.uk or phone 0161 247 5944.
