Oxford University continues to lead the United Kingdom in creating academic spinouts, according to the latest Spotlight on Spinouts 2025 report from the Royal Academy of Engineering’s Enterprise Hub and Beauhurst. The report highlights that just ten universities account for 53% of spinouts nationwide—yet Oxford remains the top university.

In 2024, UK university-backed spinouts collectively raised £2.6 billion, marking a substantial 38% increase from the previous year, defying the broader cautious investment environment. The surge is attributed to strong life sciences innovation, policy support including the government’s £40 million proof-of-concept fund, and Oxford’s own infrastructure and investor network.

Oxford University Innovation (OUI) has been central to this success, supported by Oxford Science Enterprises (OSE), one of the UK’s most active spinout investors. Oxford has launched 53 pharmaceutical-focused spinout companies, more than any other UK institution.

Equally significant, the average equity stake taken by universities in spinouts has dropped to 16%, down from 22% the prior year. This shift, aligning with recommendations from the UK Government’s Independent Review of University Spin-out Companies, aims to create a more founder-friendly environment, better aligning incentives and fostering long-term value creation.

Oxford is also making strides in promoting diversity within its spinout ecosystem: 24% of Oxford spinouts now have female founders, a notably higher share than the national average.

Ultimately, Oxford’s leadership—fueled by commercialisation expertise, strategic funding, and institutional reforms—reinforces its reputation as the UK’s most dynamic source of innovation-driven spinouts.