IPA launches SME Research Centre with Deakin University

IPA chief executive Andrew Conway said the SME Research Centre will be located in Deakin Business School and will “drive the development of small business globally”.

“The IPA-Deakin University SME Research Centre has appointed a senior academic team to the research team to adapt a UK version of the Australian Small Business White Paper,” said Mr Conway.

“We have had significant success with our Small Business White Paper initiative in Australia; rather than simply talking about small business as the ‘engine room of the economy’, we are providing an evidence base as the foundation of future policy.”

Mr Conway said the research will drive applied academic research in relation to SMEs, with expanded reference to the growth of SMEs and their global trade links.

“This will be important in light of the impact of Brexit on the economy and business in general, and particularly in considering trade and investment while the free trade agreement negotiations between the UK, Australia and the EU are ongoing,” said Mr Conway.