Knowledge Transfer Partnerships

Knowledge Transfer Partnerships (KTPs) help your business to innovate and grow.

KTPs are a leading programme from Innovate UK that brings together a company, an academic team and high calibre graduate, known as an Associate, to work on an innovative project. This programme helps businesses to improve their competitiveness and productivity through better access to research, technology and skills. 

There are two types of KTP, a classic KTP which focuses on developing new or better products and services, and a management KTP (mKTP) which looks to develop better businesses by enhancing processes and building management capability.

A KTP project can last between 12 and 36 months, depending on the challenge and the needs of the business. Any UK-based business of any size can take part. This includes not-for-profit organisations such as social enterprises, charities and some public sector organisations. The project is part-funded by a grant from Innovate UK with SMEs receiving up to 67% funding of the projects costs.

The benefits of taking part in a KTP

• Businesses achieve substantial increases in annual profit
• Around 70% of Associates are offered a permanent job in the company when the project ends. In addition, a further 2 new jobs are created on average
• Whatever the project, it is shaped to ensure that new knowledge and skills are embedded in the company for future use and development after the project finishes