Knowledge transfer partnerships (KTPs) between business and academic institutions have increased despite the recession.

Knowledge transfer partnerships (KTPs) between business and academic institutions have increased despite the recession.

There were 24 per cent more new KTP projects approved in 2008/9 than the previous year, contributing a total of almost 1,000 active projects.

Some 80 per cent of participating businesses plan to collaborate further, according to the Technology Strategy Board, which heads the KTP programme.

Debbie Buckley-Golder, a director of the KTP programme, says that new initiatives such as shorter-duration projects and an increase in grant funding have meant an increase in activity.

Adds Buckley-Golder, ‘The increased level of grant support… will ensure that more business can get involved in KTP over the coming years, which will contribute to future economic recovery and growth.’