Knowledge Transfer Partnerships

Funded Collaboration for Business Growth

Part-funded by Innovate UK and Welsh Government, KTPs cover up to 75% of project costs for Welsh SMEs and 50% for larger organisations. Projects typically last 12–36 months and cost £25k–£55k annually, bringing together your organisation, USW academics, and a full-time Associate to deliver commercial impact through academic expertise.

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Understanding KTPs

USW can support KTP collaborations across a wide range of sectors, offering three models to suit different organisational goals. Our flexible approach ensures each KTP is tailored to the sector’s unique needs.

From manufacturing to fintech, we can help companies embed cutting-edge research into their operations.

A shorter, lower-risk option to explore the potential of a future full KTP. Currently offered through Innovate UK Business Connect on an ad hoc basis, all AKTPs are subject to variable funding calls. Find out more here.

Ideal for innovation-led projects requiring academic expertise and a dedicated associate.

Focused on improving business performance through strategic management and leadership.

To be eligible for KTPs, organisations must have:

1. 1. 1. 1. The ability to afford project costs and onward investment
        
        Senior management support and a clear business need
        
        A workforce ready to capitalise upon new knowledge and skills
        
        The ability to supervise and support the associate

If you have any queries about your organisation's eligibility, please contact us.

Our Areas of Expertise

USW’s Research & Innovation Groups (RIGs) provide the foundation for our KTP success. Our interdisciplinary research groups ensure that USW can offer deep sector knowledge that is embedded into your business through robust, applied research tailored specifically to your identified challenge. Our key areas include:

Security & Cyber

Research into concussion after playing rugby

Health, Wellbeing & Society

Creative Industries

Sustainable Environments

Digital & Data Innovation

Advanced Manufacturing & Engineering

Benefits to Business

Support

A KTP with USW delivers tangible, long-term impact to your business alongside dedicated academic expertise throughout the duration of your project.

Innovation

De-risked access to cutting-edge research and facilities to develop new products, services, or processes.

Growth

Improved productivity, increased competitiveness and access to new markets through strategic collaboration and knowledge transfer.

Talent Pipeline

A skilled graduate embedded in your organisation, often leading to permanent employment.

Capability Building

Structured supervision and knowledge transfer ensure your team gains new skills and confidence.

USW and Dragon RS launch £197K KTP

USW is leading a Knowledge Transfer Partnership KTP with a specialist business on a major research project to transform recycling through cutting-edge technology. The team, led by Dr. Nildo Costa, has been awarded £197,600 to support the development of a recycling plant for spent batteries, used in electricity and gas meters, from the utilities industry. It will support Tredegar-based Dragon Recycling Solutions to develop intelligent systems to enhance the company’s processes.

Read the full story here

Ready to Collaborate?

Whether you're looking to solve a complex challenge, develop a new product, or build future-ready capabilities, a KTP with USW can help achieve your business growth and development plans. Contact USW Exchange for an initial conversation where we can explore how we can help to develop your ideas into impact.

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