The purpose of this article is to demonstrate the role of public policy and management in the delivery of an outcome oriented policy. The economic situation within recent years has resulted in a heightened awareness for more innovative public policy across the United Kingdom. Using a qualitative and an action research case study approach, this article describes and discusses how innovation and knowledge in public management can be fostered despite the downturn of the economy. This is illustrated by two regional universities within the United Kingdom when tasked with the management and delivery of highly formalised market intelligence data (Tesco Loyalty Card Data) within an innovation network with the Northern Ireland Government and the agri-food Industry. The aim of this collaborative innovation network was to address the ‘failure’ of regional small businesses in competing at a local, regional and national level. On review of the collaborative innovation network, it was established that the issue of trust and credibility created by the presence of the universities were key to the initial engagement, interaction and success of various parties within the network and to the ultimate success of the public support instrument.