The emergence of Foundation Degree programmes in response to employer workforce development needs provides a rich environment for the study of undergraduate curriculum innovation in the context of cross-sector partnerships in post-compulsory education. This article presents the findings of a case study of foundation degree development by consortia involving employer groups in the private and public sectors, six further education colleges and a research-led University. All three sectors shared a common goal of widening participation and the development of skills, yet contrasts in the range of other aims that each sought generated significant challenges to the curriculum development team. This qualitative study draws on evidence from documentary analysis, participant observation and semi-structured interviews of the major stakeholders over a period of 2 years. It highlights the barriers to effective curriculum change within partnership contexts and the benefits that can accrue. (Contains 2 tables.)