Knowledge Transfer Partnerships for Business
Knowledge Transfer Partnerships is a UK wide programme which enables companies and the public sector to access knowledge, skills and technology from the UK Universities. Partnerships can cover any important area where there is a need for additional expertise and resources, for dynamic organisations to improve their competitiveness, productivity and performance.
Knowledge transfer is achieved by the University of Bath employing one or more graduate, or 'associate', to work on a strategic project based at the organisation. An academic supervisor at the University, with relevant expertise to the programme, maintains close involvement with the graduate and organisation throughout.
The scheme aims to stimulate innovation, by providing industry based training and development of talented University graduates, including post-graduates. Over 70% of associates are offered a post on a permanent basis, following completion of the project.
Projects can vary in length from 1 to 3 years (Classic KTP) and from 10-40 weeks (Shorter KTP). Companies are eligible for a grant of up to 67% as an SME or up to 50% for a larger organisation.
KTPs, a leading scheme within Europe, is funded by the Technology Strategy Board (TSB) and 17 other funding organisations. Since the scheme started in 1975, Bath has successfully managed over 150 KTPs, and currently have over 20 partnerships running.