Knowledge Transfer Partnerships (KTP)

A Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) is a programme designed to help businesses improve their competitiveness and productivity through better use of knowledge, technology and skills.  A KTP is a three-way project partnership between a business, Keele University and a recently-qualified high-calibre graduate known as the Associate.

By working with Keele University your business will gain:

  • A full-time high-calibre graduate to spearhead a new innovation and growth project
  • Ongoing bespoke business support from an expert academic employed by Keele University
  • Access to the University’s extensive resources, including facilities and skills
  • A tailor-made strategic business development project with high levels of innovation to meet your company’s needs
  • Access to a travel, equipment and training budget for the graduate whilst working on the project
  • Wider support and opportunities offered by links to the Knowledge Transfer Network - Innovate UK's delivery partner.

Cost

Part of the cost of a KTP is funded by a grant, applied for in a competitive bid for submissions from the national innovation agency, Innovate UK, and other government co-funders. There is a success rate for applications of around 90%. The remainder of the project cost is met through the business.

The cost of a KTP is comparable to employing a well-qualified graduate, but includes so much more.  Project costs are variable, but up to 67% of the total KTP budget for SMEs is met by Government funding (for larger companies, this is up to 50%). In certain cases, the KTP may also be eligible for Research and Development tax credits.

How to apply

To apply for a KTP, companies should:

  • be UK registered and of sufficient size to support the project
  • have the financial capacity to make the required contribution to the cost of a running a KTP
  • be aware that KTPs can have a long-term legacy that can be measured over five years, as well as shorter-term impact
  • be able to show that their project demonstrates impact, innovation, challenge and cohesiveness.

For more information on the opportunities available, please contact one of the Business Gateway team:

KTP Triad logo Knowledge Transfer Partnerships (KTPs)

For more information about Knowledge Transfer Partnerships, please visit the national website at www.ktp-uk.org.

Keeling and Walker case study image

"The KTP project has influenced the company far beyond its original aim. We have now expanded our range of infra-red products that better suit the needs of our clients and have a responsive capacity to keep up with demand"

Dr Deiter Guhl, Managing Director, Keeling and Walker

Read more about Dr Deiter Guhl, Managing Director, Keeling and Walker