Universities and other higher education institutions make a significant contribution to regional economic, social and cultural development. In a globalised economy this role is growing in importance. Too often, however, the potential for synergy is thwarted by failures of communication between regional stakeholders and universities weak or unclear policy signals, and conflicting agendas in institutions. IMHE, in collaboration with the OECD is conducting a comparative review of how these issues are addressed in OECD countries, with the objective of reinforcing the partnerships between institutions and regions. The project will run through 2006 - 2007.