Knowledge Transfer Partnerships (KTPs)

About Knowledge Transfer Partnerships

A Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) links a business with an academic institution and a graduate.

This three-way partnership, part-funded by the government, enables a business to bring in new skills and the latest academic thinking to deliver a specific, strategic innovation project.

The academic institution employs a qualified graduate to work at the company. The graduate (known as the 'associate') transfers and embeds their knowledge and skills in the business.

The KTP has broadened our market base as we have explored and developed software solutions for social work for the first time – ARC Technology Ltd.

Grow your business

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Help for your business

Companies of all sizes can gain access to expertise and facilities within the University of West London (UWL) through our Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP).

We have a team on hand to identify where we can help, and provide access to finances and schemes.

Creating knowledge for practical use is central to the University's mission, and UWL is committed to working in partnership with local, national and international companies. 

To find out how the University of West London can help you reach your business goals please contact us on 0208 231 2980.

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Why choose a KTP with us?

If your business needs specific, innovative knowledge to grow further, we can share our research and resources to help you advance your business.

We have a wealth of experience in a number of disciplines and strong connections in key industries.

Through a Knowledge Transfer Partnership we can pass our expertise through a specialist graduate, known as an Associate, who can transfer and embed the knowledge in your organisation on a projects basis. 

The cost of this partnership is part-funded by UK Research and Innovate (UKRI).  

Success stories

Partner with UWL, and together, we can develop new and innovative solutions. 

FAQs

  • What is a KTP?

    Knowledge Transfer Partnerships is a partnership among:

    • a successful, growing UK-based business that needs specific, innovative knowledge in order to grow further
    • a knowledge base (usually a university) which has the innovative knowledge
    • an associate (graduate) who transfers and embeds the knowledge, often with the guidance of a Knowledge Transfer Adviser (academic).

  • How will a KTP benefit your company?

    A KTP will provide you with:

    • financial support for your idea
    • a qualified Associate(s) to take ownership of your new project
    • University of West London academic expertise and technology to progress your idea
    • the opportunity to improve your competitive advantage
    • the potential to increase profitability
    • strategic input of a highly experienced Knowledge Transfer Adviser (academic)

    Empirical evidence indicates that one to three year projects can:

    • increase pre tax annual profits by more than £220,000
    • create up to three genuine new jobs
    • boost employee skills.

  • How does a KTP work?

    A KTP works through a project which has the following characteristics:

    • strategic to company
    • strong business case
    • challenging
    • innovative
    • application of existing research.

    Project details:

    • the Associate is employed by the University but works at the company location (max. 20% spent at the University)
    • project located on business premises with business supervisor
    • a KTP can last between 12 and 36 months depending on the project and the needs of the business.

  • What type of company can apply for a KTP?

    KTPs are available to companies of all sizes (minimum of four employees), in all sectors, including charities, not-for-profit, and health organisations.

    The company needs to have:

    • their own premises (flexibility)
    • two year trading history (if less, evidence to justify may be required)
    • profitability.

  • What type of project will be funded?

    The project must require external knowledge and be of business strategic importance. For instance:

    • developing a current product(s)
    • creating a new product(s)
    • developing new technology
    • increasing company skills
    • improving logistical and manufacturing efficiency
    • re-engineering business processes

  • What will it cost your company?

    A KTP is part-funded by a government grant.

    You will need to contribute to the salary of the Associate who will work with your business, plus the cost of a supervisor who will oversee the scheme.

    The amount you will need to contribute depends on the scale and length of the project.

    Normally, large companies receive 50% grant and contribute the rest; SMEs receive 67% grant and contribute the rest.

  • Does UWL have examples of successful KTPs?

    Yes, we have participated in very successful KTPs where all parties involved benefited.

    Read ARC Technology Ltd's story and Mammoth Graphics' experience.

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