Knowledge Transfer Partnerships

Knowledge Transfer Partnerships

Knowledge Transfer Partnerships (KTPs) are a unique three-way collaboration linking forward thinking businesses with the UK’s leading research institutions. Designed to drive innovation, projects are led by a skilled and inquisitive graduate, known as a KTP Associate.  

Part-funded by Innovate UK, KTPs are available to UK registered businesses and charities looking to solve a strategic business challenge. Projects are designed collaboratively to address a specific need and challenges by transferring knowledge and expertise from within the university and embedding it into the organisation. 

Here at the University of Nottingham we’ve delivered over 160 KTP projects, securing more than £16.5 million in government funding to help businesses unlock their potential.

Our Knowledge Transfer Partnership with the University of Nottingham has been a gamechanger, revolutionising our approach to construction cost prediction with cutting-edge AI and data analytics. 

James Garner
Head of Data, Insights and Analytics, Gleeds

 

How it works

KTPs are a dynamic three-way collaboration between: 

  • A UK registered business or charity
  • An academic or research base i.e. the University of Nottingham
  • A qualified graduate, with the capability to lead a strategic business project, known as a KTP Associate

Projects last between 12 months and 3 years.

Funded by Innovate UK, grants vary depending on size and type of business:

  • 50% grant eligibility for large businesses 
  • 67% grant eligibility for SMEs 
  • 75% grant eligibility for charities

Skip to the FAQs below for more details.

 What are the benefits to your business? 

  • Gain access to world-leading expertise from the university to help expand your capabilities and drive innovative ideas and solutions. 
  • Attract and retain a high-calibre graduate. During your project, the graduate will be based at your business, delivering your project with full support, supervision and backing from the university.
  • Generate a significant increase in profitability.
  • Boost productivity through improved operations.
  • Increase revenue through access to new markets and new product development.
  • Develop a long-term, strategic relationship with the university.

You’ll be supported throughout the project by our expert KTP team, plus one of Innovate UK Business Connect’s Knowledge Transfer Advisers.  

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Gleeds

View case study >

Two people tasting gin

Warner’s Distillery

View case study >

 
Improve management practices through
Management KTPs
 

FAQs

How much does it cost?
 
What are the financial arrangements?
 
How to apply
 
How long does a KTP last?
 
Can we have more than one KTP?
 
How is the partnership managed?
 
How is the Associate recruited?
 
What are the intellectual property arrangements?
 

Ready to start your KTP journey? 

We’ll talk you through the process, and help develop your proposal to give you the best chance of securing funding.

Contact our KTP team

 

 
 
Contact us