Knowledge Transfer Partnership

What is a Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP):

A Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) is a dynamic collaboration between a business, an academic institution (Knowledge Base) and a talented graduate or post-graduate (KTP Associate). Funded by Innovate UK, KTPs help solve real-world business challenges by applying academic expertise, research and advanced technologies to support innovation, growth and competitiveness.

Why Choose a KTP:

KTPs have supported UK businesses for over 47 years. At the University of Salford, we currently lead over 40 active KTP projects, offering tailored support every step of the way.

Benefits for Your Business:

• Long-Term Collaboration: Build lasting partnerships with academic institutions for ongoing innovation.
• Access Expertise: Tap into cutting-edge academic knowledge and research capabilities.
• Boost R&D: Accelerate your innovation projects and increase competitiveness.
• University Facilities: Use specialist labs, tools, and infrastructure to develop your ideas.

Key Features of KTPs

• Collaborative Model: A strategic partnership between your business, the university, and a KTP Associate.
• Subsidised Funding: SMEs: 67% funding from Innovate UK | Large Companies: Up to 50% funding | Charities: Up to 75% funding.
• Typical Project Cost: Around £85,000–£100,000 per year, with significant funding support.

Become unstoppable

How to Launch Your KTP Project

We provide end-to-end support through every phase of the process:

• Step 1: Project Scoping: Meet with the NERIC Team to discuss your business challenge. Complete a Fact-Find Form outlining your project’s goals and potential benefits.
• Step 2: Full Proposal: Work with our Knowledge Transfer Team to create your full proposal, including a detailed work plan and deliverables.
• Step 3: Meet Your Innovate UK Adviser: Review your project with a dedicated regional adviser from Innovate UK.
• Step 4: Submit Your Proposal: Our team handles all submission logistics on your behalf.
• Step 5: Project Costings: Receive full support with budgeting; most SMEs pay just 33% of the total project cost.
• Step 6: Review & Decision: Innovate UK reviews your proposal and responds within 8–12 weeks.
• Step 7: Project Launch: Once approved, we assist with recruitment, legal contracts, and project management.

Ready to get started?

Contact the NERIC Team to explore how a KTP could help your business grow.

Get in touch