Original Release Date: 25 August 2023

This presentation focuses on expectation management when engaging industry partners for the National Industry PhD Programme. Key strategies include aligning university and industry strategic goals, building trust through early and frequent discussions, and avoiding premature financial requests in initial meetings. Universities should establish institutional relationships to maintain continuity if personnel change. Before submitting applications, discuss all possible outcomes—both successful and unsuccessful. If a project is awarded, demonstrate value through regular meetings and collaborative agreements covering IP, supervision, and student embedding. If unsuccessful, explore alternatives such as resubmission with feedback, joint funding, or other programmes. Even declined partnerships can yield referrals. The core message emphasises that demonstrating value and building trust are slow but critical processes. Being honest, upfront, and persistent in communication establishes long-term, fruitful university-industry relationships.