Knowledge Transfer Partnerships

The Knowledge Transfer Partnerships (KTP) programme, delivered by Innovate UK, helps UK businesses innovate and grow by partnering with universities or research organisations. Through a KTP, a business works with academic experts and recruits a high-calibre graduate (the KTP Associate) to deliver a strategic innovation project that addresses a key business challenge and builds long-term capability.

Projects typically last between 12 and 36 months. Funding is part-government-funded, with the business contributing to project costs. Indicative costs are around £80,000–£100,000 per year, with grant support of up to 67% for small and medium-sized enterprises and 50% for large organisations.

Applications must be led by a UK university or research organisation in partnership with a business. Businesses are encouraged to identify a suitable academic partner early, as developing a strong proposal typically takes 6–8 weeks. Support is available throughout the process from KTP advisers.

KTP funding operates through competitive application rounds held several times a year, each with a published opening and closing date. Applications are assessed on innovation impact, business need and project deliverability. Funding decisions are usually made within a few weeks of submission, after which successful projects can begin recruitment and delivery.

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