University recognises collaborative partnership with tech firm

Tech firm Bloc Digital has become the first to receive an Honorary Partnership Award from the University of Derby.

At the university’s Graduation Awards Ceremonies, held at Derby Arena earlier this month, the Derby firm was presented with the honour, which is a new award category to recognise its outstanding collaborative partnerships.

Bloc Digital has worked closely with the university since 2016, and was nominated for its long-standing collaboration, exceptional innovation and unwavering support for students.

Each year, notable people with a strong connection to the University of Derby, the city or county are nominated to receive an Honorary Degree at the Graduation Awards Ceremonies.

Thousands of graduates, guests, industry and regional partners attended the ceremonies.

Professor Kathryn Mitchell CBE DL, vice-chancellor and chief executive of the University of Derby, said: “The University of Derby’s graduation ceremonies are a celebration of the significant achievements of our graduates and a tribute to the outstanding contributions of our honorary award recipients.

“These events not only honour individual success but also highlight the transformative power of education and the university’s enduring commitment to social impact, innovation, and excellence.

“It was my pleasure to, for the very first time, announce Bloc Digital as the recipient of the University of Derby Honorary Partnership Award.

“The University of Derby prides itself on its links with industry, and our long-standing partnership with Bloc Digital underlines our joint research and developmental interests.

“Bloc Digital has been pivotal in supporting the university to be a force for positive impact, opening doors for everyone and nurturing a partnership to mould the next generation of game-changers.”

Bloc Digital co-founders Keith Cox and Chris Hotham first connected with the university when they met a representative from the Derby International Business School.

It marked a turning point for the company, unlocking a wealth of opportunities for advice and funding.

The company has since gone on to benefit from management training, research funding partnerships, and a strong supply stream of student and graduate talent.