With key 2027 deadlines approaching, now is the time to explore how a Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) could help turn your research into real-world impact, build industry partnerships and unlock new funding opportunities.
Knowledge Transfer Partnerships are one of the UK’s longest running and most successful knowledge exchange programmes, helping businesses innovate by connecting them with academic expertise and talented graduates.
They offer a unique opportunity for researchers to collaborate with industry, address strategic challenges and translate research into practical solutions with lasting impact.
Why get involved in a KTP?
A KTP brings together a business, an academic team and a qualified graduate or postdoctoral researcher (known as the KTP Associate) to deliver a strategic innovation project.
For academics, KTPs can provide a range of benefits, including:
- Applying research expertise to real-world industry challenges
- Developing long-term partnerships with businesses and organisations
- Generating impact beyond academia
- Accessing funding for collaborative innovation projects
- Creating opportunities for publications, case studies and future research
- Supporting graduate talent development
- Strengthening REF impact and knowledge exchange activity
KTPs span a broad range of sectors and disciplines, offering opportunities for colleagues across Edinburgh Napier University to collaborate with businesses looking to innovate and grow.
Key KTP deadlines for 2027
The next KTP application deadline is: 27 January 2027. Please note that this has been updated from the previously advertised date of 20 January.
It’s also important to be aware that the following deadline after January will not be until 21 April 2027, following the cancellation of Cohort 5, which had been expected to open later this year.
With almost three months between deadlines, now is an ideal time to start identifying opportunities and developing potential projects.
Further information on dates is available on the UKRI website >
Thinking about applying?
If you’re considering submitting a KTP proposal to the 21 April 2027 deadline, planning should begin now.
Developing a strong KTP application requires time to identify the right business partner, define the challenge and shape a project that will deliver meaningful outcomes for both the organisation and the University.
For an April submission, colleagues should aim to complete, in collaboration with the business partner, the Expression of Interest (Fact Finding Form) by the end of February 2027.
Early engagement gives projects the best chance of success and allows time to refine ideas, gather evidence and develop a competitive proposal.
Looking for your next KTP partner?
Save the date: 27 January 2027
A CEED (Centre for Engineering Education and Development) Trading Zone networking event will take place on campus at Edinburgh Napier University on 27 January 2027, providing an opportunity for Edinburgh Napier academics and businesses to connect, share challenges and explore collaborative innovation opportunities.
The event will focus on ‘Advanced Through-Life Product Development’, exploring topics including AI-assisted product design and optimisation, novel materials, sustainable design, human-centred design, digital twins and advanced manufacturing workflows.
Whether you’re new to KTPs or looking to develop your next proposal, the event will be a valuable opportunity to start conversations and build partnerships.
Further details and registration information will be shared soon – watch this space!
ENU staff support
For Edinburgh Napier academics, if you need help finding a partner before that, visit the Finding a Partner page on the RIE Hub (accessible to ENU staff and students only) for guidance on identifying and engaging with potential collaborators, together with links to partner discovery platforms and useful resources.
Don’t forget to contact your Business Development and Relationship Manager (BDRM) to help you.
Could your KTP be award-winning?
The Scottish Knowledge Exchange Awards celebrate the people, projects and partnerships creating positive impact through knowledge exchange across Scotland.
If you’ve been involved in a KTP project, now is a good time to review the award categories and consider whether your work could be put forward for future recognition. KTPs often demonstrate the strong collaboration, innovation and real-world impact that these awards seek to showcase. Deadline for entries: 10 December 2026.
Find out more about the 2027 Scottish KE Awards >
Find out more and start the conversation!
If you have a business contact, an idea for a collaborative innovation project, or would simply like to explore whether a Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) could support your research, we’re here to help.
Explore our KTP webpage for further guidance, funding information and inspiring Edinburgh Napier KTP case studies, then contact your BDRM to discuss your ideas and explore opportunities for collaboration.