A Knowledge Transfer Network is a single over-arching national network in a specific field of technology or business application which brings together people from businesses, universities, research, finance and technology organisations to stimulate innovation through knowledge transfer.
Knowledge Transfer Networks (KTNs) have been set up to drive the flow of knowledge within, in and out of specific communities.
KTNs have been established and are funded by government, industry and academia. They bring together diverse organisations and provide activities and initiatives that promote the exchange of knowledge and the stimulation of innovation in these communities. There are currently 15 KTNs.
The KTNs are now hosted on connect, a powerful networking platform. Connect is a place that facilitates open innovation, where people can network, share information and knowledge and work together securely. Utilise the online tools to work collaboratively or discuss ideas and find events. Join connect now.
Objective
The objective of a Knowledge Transfer Network (KTN) is to improve the UK's innovation performance, by increasing the breadth and depth of the knowledge transfer of technology into UK-based businesses, and by accelerating the rate at which this occurs. Networks are aligned to, and actively contribute to, the goals of the Technology Strategy Board.
The specific aims of a Knowledge Transfer Network include the following:
- To deliver improved industrial performance through innovation and new collaborations by driving the flow of people, knowledge and experience between business and the science-base, between businesses and across sectors;
- To drive knowledge transfer between the supply and demand sides of technology-enabled markets through a high quality, easy to use service;
- To facilitate innovation and knowledge transfer by providing UK businesses with the opportunity to meet and network with individuals and organisations, in the UK and internationally;
- To provide a forum for a coherent business voice to inform government of its technology needs and about issues, such as regulation, which are enhancing or inhibiting innovation in the UK.
Why join a KTN?
KTNs provide many benefits for members including:
Networking - frequent opportunities to network with other businesses and academics through targeted events, meetings and Special Interest Groups organised by the KTN.
Information and news - free access to on-line services such as reports, newsletters, webinars/e-training, events diaries, e-conferencing and collaboration tools and general sector/application specific information.
Funding opportunities - advice on Technology Strategy Board Collaborative R& D calls, Knowledge Transfer Partnerships and other sources of funding for innovation such as Framework Programme 7, Eureka, Venture Capital.
Policy and regulation - a communications route between their community, Government and EU, giving members the opportunity to influence policies and regulation in the UK and abroad.
Our strategy - KTNs are playing an increasingly important role in the development of the Technology Strategy Board's future direction.
The KTNs in the portfolio are:
- Aerospace, Aviation and Defence
- Biosciences
- Chemistry Innovation
- Creative Industries
- Electronics, Sensors, Photonics
- Energy Generation and Supply
- Environmental Sustainability
- Financial Services
- HealthTech and Medicines
- ICT
- Industrial Mathematics
- Materials
- Modern Built Environment
- Nanotechnology
- Transport
For further information please telephone 0300 321 4357 or email support@innovateuk.org
