Knowledge Transfer Partnerships
Empowering businesses through innovation and collaboration. Discover how Kingston University’s award-winning Knowledge Transfer Partnerships can help you grow.
Knowledge Transfer Partnerships at Kingston University
What is a Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP)?
A Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) is a collaborative initiative, part-funded by the UK government, connecting businesses with universities and talented graduates to drive innovation and strategic growth.
KTPs provide businesses with access to cutting-edge academic expertise and a skilled graduate (known as the associate) to lead innovative projects. These partnerships have been instrumental in helping businesses improve processes, develop new products, and access new markets.
Innovate UK funds up to 67% of project costs for SMEs and up to 50% for larger companies. Most partnerships run for 12–36 months. Innovate UK have supported over 13,000 partnerships that have linked businesses with the UK's world-class knowledge bases to deliver innovation projects led by talented graduates, delivering an 800% return on investment.
How does a Knowledge Transfer Partnership work?
Identify a strategic challenge requiring external expertise
- Academic partnership: Collaborate with Kingston University’s experts to scope out the project.
- Recruitment: Kingston University recruits a graduate (associate) to lead the project within your organisation.
- Project delivery: The associate works on-site, supported by University academics and an organisational manager.
- Ongoing support: A Kingston University KTP adviser ensures smooth project execution.
Benefits of Knowledge Transfer Partnerships
Benefits for businesses
By partnering with Kingston University through a KTP, businesses can:
- Access academic expertise to overcome strategic challenges.
- Embed innovative solutions and foster a culture of continuous improvement.
- Increase revenue, productivity, and operational efficiency.
- Expand into new markets and develop cutting-edge products.
- Gain a competitive edge through improved processes and capabilities.
Benefits for academics
KTPs enable academics to:
- Apply their research expertise in practical, commercial settings.
- Create industry-relevant teaching materials and research insights.
- Establish new research themes and innovative collaborations.
Benefits for graduates
Graduates (associates) involved in KTPs benefit by:
- Earning a salary for the term of the project as well as receiving a training and professional development budget.
- Gaining hands-on experience with real-world business challenges.
- Building their career prospects under the mentorship of leading academics and business managers.
- Securing future employment – more than 60% of associates are offered roles at the end of their projects.
Knowledge Transfer Partnerships at Kingston University
Since 1992, Kingston University has facilitated numerous successful KTPs across diverse industries, earning awards and outstanding ratings. These projects demonstrate the University’s commitment to innovation and impactful collaboration. Examples include:
- Cubic Defence UK Limited: Developed technology to assess communication channels in real time.
- Pangea Connected Ltd: Created a 5G-enabled video streaming system for ambulance services.
- Hampton Court Palace: Redesigned the visitor experience in the Tudor sections.
- Salutem: Built sophisticated sensors to support carers for individuals with autism.
- Linguaphone Group Ltd: Developed a kindergarten curriculum for Pingu’s International English School in more than 20 countries.
Each project reflects Kingston University's ability to drive impactful change and deliver tailored solutions for its partners. You can view more case studies below.
Partnerships supported by Innovate UK
Innovate UK Return on investment
Knowledge Transfer Partnership: frequently-asked questions
See some of the most frequently-asked questions for businesses considering a KTP.
Get in touch to discuss your business needs
If you would like to find out more about how the University could work with your business or organisation, or need further information or advice, please get in touch.
