KTP Network North East
The KTP Network North East partnership was established in 1999 as a result of a successful bid for ERDF Objective 2 funding to promote and develop Knowledge Transfer Partnerships (KTP) – formerly Teaching Company Schemes (TCS) throughout the North East. The Network is comprised of the five Universities from the North East of England – University of Durham, University of Newcastle, University of Northumbria, University of Sunderland and University of Teesside.

Each of the Regions Universities operates a KTP Unit dedicated to promoting and growing the number of KTP partnerships across the region and to provide support with all aspects of the KTP process to project participants.

The partnership members meet regularly to share best practice and disseminate information about the scheme. (See contacts page for details of your local office)

What are Knowledge Transfer Partnerships?
Knowledge Transfer Partnerships are a government-funded scheme enabling business to access the skills and resources of UK universities for strategic advantage with high quality graduates working in companies on knowledge transfer projects.

Knowledge Transfer Partnerships aim to strengthen the competitiveness and wealth creation of the UK by stimulation of innovation in business through collaborative partnerships with the UK Universities, Colleges and other research organisations.

What types of projects are eligible?
Working with a university, college or research organisation could help businesses by, for example,

Developing New products:

	Software development
	New food products

Improving processes:

	Manufacturing Systems- reductions in waste, improvements in efficiency Developing new markets
	Through developing new markets for existing products or looking at alternate uses

What are the benefits of the scheme?
The company develops and grows by accessing the wealth of knowledge and expertise at the partner university.

The graduate (known as a “KTP Associate”) gains business-based experience and personal and professional development opportunities.

The university, college, or research organisation enhances the business relevance of their research and teaching.

How is it funded?
Each KTP Programme is part funded by a Government grant made to the knowledge base partner organisation. This grant contributes to the costs incurred in participating in that particular KTP Programme whilst the balance of its costs is borne by the company partner. A small and medium sized company will typically pay around £16,000 per year of the project.

KTP Network North East – supporting Knowledge Transfer Partnerships in the North East.