Knowledge Transfer Partnerships
At the University of Birmingham, we foster dynamic collaborations between organisations and our specialist graduate talent through Knowledge Transfer Partnerships (KTPs).
Businesses of all types and sizes can participate in KTP, with projects in any academic field – the criteria is only that projects should be innovative, develop impact and create a lasting financial legacy.
The scheme is funded, and supported, by Innovate UK, with the company partners contributing financially, depending on its size. SMEs can expect to receive 67% funding, while larger corporate partners would receive 50% funding. In addition, charities can be expected to receive 75% of funded support.
Deadline dates for applications in 2025 - 2026 are:
- 12 February 2025
- 9 April 2025
- 11 June 2025
- 17 September 2025
- 26 November 2025
- 28 January 2026
The University of Birmingham's KTP Office can help with the development of your KTP application at every stage. We can suggest the right academic to partner with, comment on application documents, and provide HR and post-award support for the duration of the project.
Accelerated Knowledge Transfer
Short, intensive partnerships built to deliver targeted interventions
Benefits for businesses
The KTP programme offers privileged and cost-effective access to fresh thinking, deep research knowledge, and leading-edge technology and equipment. The potential is there for gaining a competitive advantage through accelerated innovation and new product development, with many of our partner businesses having seen increased revenue and profits through efficiency gains, improved processes and access to new markets.
Benefits for academics
With the growing importance of demonstrating the non-academic application of publicly-funded research, KTPs offer a proven pathway for using research to create real-world change. New research generated can form the basis of publications and conference presentations, with partner companies providing access to equipment and resources that would otherwise be unavailable. We can support at all stages, from finding the right company partner and drafting your application to recruitment, supervision and project management.
Benefits for Associates
KTP Associates are talented graduates, postgraduates or doctoral specialists who are employed to deliver KTP projects. KTP provides Associates with the opportunity to gain industrial experience while keeping one foot in academia. Along with a competitive salary and £2,000 per year for personal development, you will have the chance to apply your knowledge to realise key strategic innovations, as well as gain access to professional training, mentoring and qualifications.
Further information for Associates
KTP is a national scheme, and current opportunities can be found by visiting the KTP website. Opportunities for KTP Research Fellows and KTP Associates at the University of Birmingham are advertised nationally via the University's jobs website, jobs.ac.uk, and LinkedIn.