Archives: Insights

Business Impact and Transformation Award

At the 2022 Innovate UK KTP Awards, we’ll be recognising the partnerships that have continued to demonstrate outstanding impact with the Business Impact and Transformation Award. Finalists for this award have demonstrated a transformative commercial outlook and accessing academic knowledge to deepen expertise, companies are able to expand their commercial capabilities and exploit market opportunities.  

Read on to see who is in contention for this award at the Innovate UK KTP Awards, happening in Liverpool on 12th October (register here).

Axial3D,
Ulster University,
Luke Donnelly

Axial3D specializes in patient-specific medical 3D imaging and modelling to enhance surgical planning, save time and costs, and improve patient outcomes.

The aim of the KTP, with Ulster University and Luke Donnelly, was to develop a 3D web-based visualisation system, for use by medical professionals, enabling realistic and accurate representation of anatomy at a pre-production stage.

During the KTP, Axial3D increased employment and revenues, with the company’s case study presented at SXSW2019. This was cited as the world’s first renal operation using 3D printing, with the consultant hailing the technology as “invaluable” in pre-operative planning. The company’s solutions are now used in approximately 350 hospitals aiming to add another 300 hospitals in 2022. 

The UK Government Health Secretary exemplified Axial3D as 

“helping to transform surgery by providing 3D-printed models of specific parts of a patient’s own body. Axial3D uses machine learning-based segmentation algorithms to automatically produce patient-specific 3D anatomical models within 24 to 48 hours.”

Roger Johnston, CEO of Axial3D said:  

“We have an opportunity in front of us to fundamentally change patient-specific care around the world. We believe that traditional 2D imaging will be replaced by 3D imaging as the basis for new standards of care over the next few years.” 

 

Johnson Test Papers,
University of Wolverhampton,
Caitlin Forster

Johnson Test Papers has been manufacturing easy-to-use rapid tests since 1938 providing fast and accurate results. Their broad range of products covers everything from simple pH testing, water analysis, production processes and measurements of special food parameters.

The KTP worked with the University of Wolverhampton and Caitlin Forster to research, develop and manufacture a novel portable reagent test kit for testing for pollutants in water, sewage, soils and gases.

The project has made a significant impact within the industry by introducing fast, easy-to-use and economically priced test kits for parameters which have long been slow and cumbersome procedures. This new method of analysis has made it more accessible and user-friendly allowing even those not skilled in Chemistry to be able to perform such tests and implement improvements and in turn improve the quality of life for others in regions where it is needed most, in particular for water and environmental analysis.

Additionally, one of the biggest outcomes of the KTP, coupled with the KTP that was completed at Johnson Test Papers previously (2014-2016), is that it directly led to the start of a third KTP which further improves and introduces novel test kits to this industry.

SC Group-Global Limited,
University of Exeter,
Matthew Harvey

SC Group’s (SC) principal activity is research and development, design, prototyping, manufacturing, sale and support of high mobility vehicles and other systems across the defence, emergency services and energy sectors. 

The All-Terrain Mobility Platform (ATMP) hybrid drive KTP project with the University of Exeter and Matthew Harvey developed the expertise required for the propulsion, control and associated ancillary systems for a ‘go anywhere’ high mobility vehicle, for use in hazardous environments, including the defence and emergency services sector.

Throughout the project, SC Group has had to upskill enabling them to undertake electric vehicle activities. The team has now established the necessary infrastructure to develop and manufacture high-performance off-road vehicles, to cross a variety of terrains and SC has gained significant contemporary expertise on hybrid electric powertrains. These new capabilities can be adapted for a variety of situations and retrofitted to off-road vehicles. Various sectors can utilise this technology to improve operational capability whilst protecting the planet. 

These outcomes have been transformative to the SC Group, the academic team and increasingly for the defence sector, with SC shifting from ‘not knowing what it didn’t know’ about hybrid and electric vehicles and is now recognised as a leader in hybrid and electric drive in defence and other sectors.

Register for the KTP Awards 2022

The KTP Awards recognise the people and partnerships behind the UK’s most inspiring and successful KTP projects. Highlighting these outstanding partnerships is just the tip of the iceberg, with more than 800 inspiring collaborations currently happening across the country.

If you want to attend the awards virtually or apply to join us in person, you can register here.

KTP Academic of the Year Award

At the 2022 Innovate UK KTP Awards, we have introduced a new category: KTP Academic of the Year Award. This award recognises the outstanding contribution made to KTP by a member of academic staff and the role that they have had in influencing the uptake of KTP throughout their institution.

Read on to see who is in contention for this award at the Innovate UK KTP Awards, happening in Liverpool on 12th October (register here).

Professor Berthold Lausen, University of Essex,
Profusion Media Ltd,
Juan Pablo Equihua Linares as the Associate

Profusion is a data agency that specialises in predictive modelling, email marketing, business intelligence and customer satisfaction. At their core, they help their clients to monetise their data – whether that involves increasing customer engagement and sales, optimising their operations or simply learning about their customer’s business needs.

The vision of the company and a key objective of the KTP was to build a product that will help democratise the use of AI for digital marketers so that they are liberated to be more creative – which in this KTP applies to charities and foundations.

The academic working on this KTP was Professor Lausen who has over 35 years of experience as a medical and trial statistician and data scientist. During the highly successful first KTP project between Profusion Data Science and the University of Essex, Professor Berthold Lausen encouraged Profusion to engage with Masters Data Science students and acted as the University supervisor of former students now working for Profusion. 

Juan Equihua, the KTP Associate, received highly encouraging support from all members of the interdisciplinary academic team. Berthold encouraged Juan to start a PhD in Data Science in parallel to his role as KTP Associate. 

The two have co-supervised several placement students of the Profusion Data Academy, and Juan took a leading role in recruiting and managing the Essex students at Profusion. The Data Academy placement and KTP resulted in an industry-funded PhD studentship supervised by Berthold at the University of Essex.

Dr Faiyaz Doctor, University of Essex
Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC)
Ahmad Khaliq as the Associate

Dr Faiyaz Doctor is an academic, innovator and applied technology specialist with over 15 years of experience in the development and application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) techniques in research and commercial areas.

Mediterranean Shipping Group is a world leader in global container shipping, the second largest shipping company in the world by capacity (2019), offering global service with local knowledge. MSC (UK) delivers a professional, efficient service tailored to the specific needs of its clients.

Faiyaz has extensive experience in working with Knowledge Transfer Partnerships and has led projects across several sectors, including healthcare, property, digital marketing and facilities management. His expertise in knowledge transfer and effective partnership-building has been fundamental to the development of the University of Essex’s relationship with MSC (UK). 

A former KTP Associate himself, Faiyaz’s contribution to the KTP with Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) has been exceptional, from successfully leading a cross-discipline project working across faculty with other academics from the Department of Mathematics to mentoring the KTP Associate -Ahmad Khaliq.

The project is developing transformative data-driven simulation and deep machine learning capabilities for improving efficiencies in MSC’s shipping and haulage supply chain network in the face of global issues around demand, congestion and space limitations at ports.

Dr Mohammed Yaseen, University of the West of Scotland
ACS Clothing Limited
Dr Emmanuel I. Epelle as the Associate

Dr Mohammed Yaseen the lead academic has shown multi-disciplinary skills & leadership leading to knowledge translation, a new capability in the business, and enhancing KTP Associate personal development.

For 25 years ACS Clothing has specialised in rental fulfilment and clothing renewal for fashion brands & high-street retailers. ACS manages the transport to/from customers, sanitisation, cleaning, repairs, storage and picking of garments. After defining and perfecting their innovative and scalable fulfilment solution for the traditional men’s formal hire market, they have recently expanded into new markets within the fashion industry (womenswear, babywear and PPE) and are proud to have enabled the shift from clothing ownership to access. 

The project between ACS Clothing and the University of the West of Scotland aimed to embed automation, physical chemistry, and microbiological expertise, in the design, development and implementation of a novel in-line garment decontamination process (using ozone); addressing existing batch process constraints and unlocking the capacity for accelerated growth within ACS Clothing.

From the start of KTP Dr Yaseen directed the KTP associate & fellow team members & industry harmonious toward set criteria leading to the successful development of a lab-scale ozone sterilisation system & testing of microbiota on materials leading to 6 publications as lead, a patent, installation of the large-scale system, Scottish Enterprise (£100k) funding, a new studentship £70K and potential new KTP as lead academic.

Register for the KTP Awards 2022

The KTP Awards recognise the people and partnerships behind the UK’s most inspiring and successful KTP projects. Highlighting these outstanding partnerships is just the tip of the iceberg, with more than 800 inspiring collaborations currently happening across the country.

If you want to attend the awards virtually or join us in person, you can register here. 

 

Best Knowledge Base KTP Support Team Award 

At this year’s KTP Awards, we’re recognising the hard work of KTP support teams based in universities across the country. The Best Knowledge Base KTP Support Team Award recognises a team that has influenced and supported sustained high-quality performance in KTP. 

Read on to see who is in contention for this award at the Innovate UK KTP Awards, happening in Liverpool on 12th October (register here).

University of Brighton

The KTP Centre at the University of Brighton, established in 1993, has a long track record of engaging and collaborating with businesses and communities, fostering strong relationships with diverse industries to generate impact from our research. 

The University of Brighton KTP Centre is recognised this year with a finalist Award due to the fantastic work the team have achieved. The team overcame significant challenges in the last five years with cutbacks and particularly when the pandemic hit.

During this time, project numbers at Brighton dropped to two as projects ended (the lowest ever). But, with some prudent management and attention, UoB pushed out the message for companies to ‘innovate out of crisis’ and to use their expertise to do so by utilising KTPs. 

The messaging worked and 2020/21 submissions quickly went from famine to feast. Recognition from this Award supports that ambition fully, as well as the hard work and achievements of recent years.

Recent data on the quality and volume of KTP submissions in 2021/22 showed that only 4 universities featured in both lists – Brighton is one of them, ranking highest for quality. 

“I want to congratulate the University of Brighton on being shortlisted for the Knowledge Base KTP Support Team Award. Having worked with >30% of all KBs that have participated in KTP over the past 16 years and ~64% of those KBs that are currently active in KTP, I wholeheartedly support their application as the Brighton KTP team is unsurpassed in their knowledge, enthusiasm, and support of all aspects of KTP.”

Knowledge Transfer Adviser – Terry Corner 

University of Essex 

The KTP Team at the University of Essex has 40 KTPs across eight academic departments and a KTP portfolio worth £10 million, making the university number one in the UK for Innovate UK-funded KTPs. 

This team has grown the KTP portfolio at Essex from 8 projects in 2017 to 40 projects in 2022 (+400%), all whilst delivering an application success rate that sits consistently and comfortably above 90%. 

Whilst consistently delivering these successful results, the Essex team doesn’t sit still, with innovations being rolled out consistently such as Formalised Associate induction programme, and an Associate Slack group and they’re trialling an Associate buddy scheme.

Alongside this work, the KTP team has begun a brand-awareness campaign which centres on our inspirational new video, designed to grab attention across digital channels. 

University of West Scotland

The KTP Centre at UWS currently comprises five staff, providing both pre and post-award support to UWS academics, KTP Associates and business partners across the UK and overseas. As a comparatively small University with around 600 academic staff, UWS punch well above their weight in the UK league table for KTP, and it’s because of this we want to recognise their invaluable contribution to the programme by nominating them for this award. 

The KTP centre has a high success rate in bids (100% over the last 2 years) with academic colleagues, company partners and referring intermediaries assured of both excellence of service and good return on investment in terms of bid development. 

The quality of service is maintained post-award, which was demonstrated most vividly by the KTP Centre and UWS’s assistance during the pandemic, particularly by offering a range of support from payment holidays to project breaks, supporting associates and businesses at a time when they were under exceptional financial stress and worry.

Several of the businesses supported during this period have gone on to secure A-graded projects as well as industry awards.

“The UWS KTP team have made their KTP Associates a community, sustained numerous support initiatives throughout the pandemic, helping their well-being and effectiveness. Every business partner feels the weight of the whole university supporting them and in return becomes champions helping to drive the portfolio. Overall the team have operationalised the University’s strategic commitment to KTP, shown great initiative and achieved great success.”

Senior Knowledge Transfer Adviser – Gerry Black

Register for the KTP Awards 2022

The KTP Awards recognise the people and partnerships behind the UK’s most inspiring and successful KTP projects. Highlighting these outstanding partnerships is just the tip of the iceberg, with more than 800 inspiring collaborations currently happening across the country.

If you want to attend the awards virtually or join us in person, you can register here. 

 

The KTP Awards 2022 Finalists are announced

We’re delighted to announce the finalists for this year’s Innovate UK KTP Awards.

This year we’ll shine a light on the tremendous impact of the programme, not only on the people and organisations involved but at the broader societal level. In an effort to promote more of KTP, we have also decided to expand the award categories to seven, meaning there will be more opportunities to shine at the 2022 awards ceremony.

The KTP Awards recognise the people and partnerships behind the UK’s most inspiring and successful KTP projects. Highlighting these outstanding partnerships is just the tip of the iceberg, with more than 800 inspiring collaborations currently happening across the country.

If you want to attend the awards virtually or apply to join us in person, you can register here.

Best Knowledge Transfer Partnership Award

  • Cirdan Ltd – Queen’s University Belfast – Jonathan Armstrong
  • Partnership Medical Ltd – Aston University – Thien Duong
  • Techbuyer – University of East London – Nour Rteil

Technical Excellence Award

  • IGS Ltd – James Hutton Institute – Elliot Erskin
  • inov-8 – The University of Manchester – Nadiim Domun
  • South West Water – University of Exeter – Joshua Myrans

Business Impact and Transformation Award

  • Axial3D – Ulster University – Luke Donnelly
  • Johnson Test Papers Ltd – University of Wolverhampton – Caitlin Forster
  • SC Group-Global – University of Exeter – Matthew Harvey

Changing The World Award

  • Network 2 Supplies – Coventry University – Mahsa Baniasadi
  • Royal Horticultural Society – Cranfield University – Janet Manning
  • W & J Knox Ltd – Abertay University – Ryan Ganfield

KTP Academic of the Year

  • Dr Mohammed Yaseen, ACS Clothing Limited, University of the West of Scotland
  • Dr Faiyaz Doctor, Mediterranean Shipping Company, University of Essex
  • Professor Berthold Lausen, Profusion Media Ltd, University of Essex

Best Knowledge Base KTP Support Team

  • University of Brighton
  • University of Essex
  • University of West of Scotland

Future Leader Award

  • Beth Wilson, Harris Tweed Hebrides, Robert Gordon University
  • Calum McCormack, Aggreko, Glasgow Caledonian University
  • Catherine Campbell, Acheson & Glover, Queen’s University Belfast
  • Chuan Liu, Motor Design Limited, University of Nottingham
  • Edward Blissitt, Motive Offshore Group, The University of Aberdeen
  • Emmanuel I. Epelle, ACS Clothing Limited, University of the West of Scotland
  • Harsh Shah, East Midlands Chamber (Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Leicestershire), De Montfort University
  • Jacob Mitchell, SPTS Technologies Ltd, Swansea University
  • Joshua Green, James Robinson Specialty Ingredients, University of Manchester
  • Juliette Farrell, Elite Bedding Company Ltd , University of Strathclyde
  • Kate Turley, Chroma Lighting, Ulster University
  • Lulu Qu, Judge Sampson, University of Brighton
  • Matthew Ellison, Arktis Endurance Textiles, University of Lincoln
  • Matthew Holland, Innerva, Manchester Metropolitan University
  • Matt Maufe, Filament AI, University of Warwick
  • Max Nentwich, Cambridge Vacuum Engineering, Cranfield University
  • Nour Rteil, Techbuyer, University of East London
  • Qiong Bu, Fitfactory Innovations Ltd, University of Liverpool
  • Sara Bru Garcia, The Together Agency, University of Nottingham
  • Sneha Parajuli, SDG Construction Ltd, Queen’s University Belfast
  • Tania Farhat, Unibrak Limited – Trading as AV Unibrak, The University of Manchester

Innovate UK KTP Awards 2022

The ceremony will happen on Wednesday the 12th of October, in-person (in Liverpool) and online. If you do wish to attend in person and network with other attendees, please express your interest to do so when you register, and the team will be in touch.

Innovation for Growth Series: Agri-Innovation for Food Resilience

In collaboration with RAU & Farm491, this event brings together agri-food academics and practitioners to share ideas and learn how to access funding opportunities. 

There is an urgent need to transform agri-food systems towards higher levels of efficiency, resilience, inclusiveness, and sustainability. Agri-tech innovation plays an important role in this transformation with 78% of farmers across the UK using some form of agri-tech.

This event brings together RAU academics, Farm491 members and other businesses from the Greater Bristol, Bath, Wiltshire, or Gloucestershire area to learn more about funding, potential partnerships and other agrifood opportunities in the area.

Register here.

Who should attend?

If you are a business working with farmers, in food production and/or supply across the agri-food value chain located in the Greater Bristol, Bath, Wiltshire, or Gloucestershire area this event is for you.

Why attend?

  • Get insight into potential routes to funding your innovative business ideas
  • Identify possible opportunities for partnership and collaboration
  • Network with RAU academics and other businesses working in this area

Agenda

09:45  – Registration and brunch

10:00  – Welcome and Introduction by RAU Host – Professor Mark Horton – Director of Research and Enterprise

10:10  – Keynote Address: Dr Colin Cooper – Innovate UK Head of Commercialisation and Collaboration

10:15 – Innovation Funding opportunities for businesses.  One minute pitches: Innovate UK Edge, Innovate UK, KTN, British Business Bank and Defence and Security Accelerator

10:25  – Exploring the Agri-Innovation Support landscape

  • Professor David Main: Transdisciplinary support for global transition in food systems
  • Professor Tom MacMillan: Working with farmers to boost adoption
  • Sarah Carr – Head of Farm491: Converting your idea or technology into a viable and successful business

10:50 – Panel discussion: Opportunities and challenges for industry and business collaboration

11:10 – Networking

11:40 – Closing remarks – Professor Mark Horton

11:45 – Stakeholder Conversation Session (opportunity for businesses to talk one to one to the stakeholders)

12:00 – End

Register here.

Our Hosts and Stakeholders

Farm491  is a leading UK based AgriTech incubator and innovation space based at the Royal Agricultural University, supporting entrepreneurs as they advance their business with potential for impact in the agricultural sector.

There are a vast array of strategic business support and funding initiatives available. Understanding and deciphering which is the most suitable to address your specific need can often be a challenge. At Innovate UK KTN our mission is to connect ideas, people, and communities to respond to business challenges and drive positive change through innovation.

Other stakeholders at this event include Innovate UK, Innovate UK EDGE, The Defence and Security Accelerator and The British Business Bank. The round table discussions will enable us to delve into the most pressing regional business challenges by bringing together business leaders, with academic experts and potential solution providers, and highlighting the different funding opportunities available to support your strategic business needs, such as Knowledge Transfer Partnerships.

About Innovate UK KTN

Our mission is to connect ideas, people, and communities to respond to business challenges and drive positive change through innovation.

Register here.

KTP between Grŵp Llandrillo Menai and Fifth Wheel Co. unlocks innovation

KTP & Made Smarter Series

Throughout May, Knowledge Transfer Partnerships is collaborating with Made Smarter to bring you a wide array of projects from our network that are pushing the boundaries of innovation within manufacturing. 

This week, we head to North Wales to discover a KTP between Grwp Llandrillo Menai FE College and The Fifth Wheel Company which have allowed the luxury caravan manufacturer to unlock capacity, increase productivity and profits, and created a culture of collaboration and innovation.

The Partnership

The Fifth Wheel Company (Fifth Wheel Co.), based in Rhuallt, North Wales, collaborated with Grwp Llandrillo Menai and KTP Associate Charlie Small through the Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) programme to implement new smart digital manufacturing processes which introduced advanced composite materials to the company’s bespoke product range.

Mick Card, Knowledge Transfer Adviser, who supported the KTP, said: 

“This is the second time Fifth Wheel has reaped the benefits of a KTP to further develop and embed world-leading manufacturing capability. This time the company has embraced the advanced manufacturing expertise available from Grwp Llandrillo Menai to fuel the next phase of growth and innovation.”

The Inspiration

Fifth Wheel Co. is best known for its unique fifth wheel tourers and innovative touring caravan.

Antiquated attitudes towards digital manufacturing and a risk-aversion towards research and development meant Fifth Wheel Co. were missing out on opportunities to introduce new lightweight materials, and the advanced processes needed to manufacture them, now emerging as the automotive industry switches to electric vehicles.

Gethin Whiteley, Technical Director, said: 

“While we had invested in digital manufacturing to improve efficiency, we weren’t getting the best out of it. We were still organised as a traditional manufacturer where a product moves from A to B to C. We lacked innovation. As a result, we couldn’t meet the demand for our products and were increasingly reliant on third parties.”

Having seen the benefits of a previous KTP, Fifth Wheel Co. wasn’t shy about looking for external expertise and support, and secured a two-year project co-funded by the Welsh Government and Innovate UK to work with Grwp Llandrillo Menai, a Further Education college, with expertise in advanced manufacturing, which it also had a longstanding relationship with.

The Innovation

KTP Associate Charlie Small began working with Grwp Llandrillo Menai and tapped into academic support by looking at CAD, CAM, and state of the art manufacturing practices. The partnership designed a project which encompassed all areas of Fifth Wheel Co.’s business from point of contact with the customer, through design, production, and delivery.

It introduced new digital manufacturing processes, including enterprise resource planning (ERP) software, to replace the use of paper on the shopfloor and allowed real-time access to key information and drawings at each workstation.

Radical changes were made to workflow and cell organisation, improving the flow of information from the design team to the CNC operators, and the flow of parts to finishing and assembly. 

The project also made the best use of existing CNC processes, introducing advanced 3D machining using Autodesk Fusion 360 to enable the in-house capabilities and capacity to create a new range of foam vehicle trim, improving panel building potential by replacing plywood with lighter materials.

The project also introduced the use of desktop 3D printing and CNC machining to improve research and development capability.

The Impact 

New manufacturing capability brought subcontracted components back in-house, giving Fifth Wheel Co. complete control over its production schedule and design variations, increasing flexibility and reducing lead times.

The introduction of standard operating procedures and better staff training has reduced rework and miscuts which in turn is helping to drive scrap parts down. 

As a result, Fifth Wheel Co. has increased its capacity by 50%, allowing it to increase production from 35 vans to 50 over a year. This is estimated to increase turnover by £1.3M.

The introduction of cloud-based data has eliminated paper from the production process, speeding up information transfer from the design office to the factory and increasing accuracy.

The project has put in place the foundations for further in-house manufacturing capabilities to use more lightweight composite materials to reduce the weight of the vehicles and align with the drive towards electric vehicles.

Charlie Small, KTP Associate, said:  

“Having a third party involved brought a new perspective to Fifth Wheel Co.’s production processes and mindset. It is no longer reliant on third party suppliers and has massively increased its in-house capability. There is a new level of trust, confidence and autonomy flowing through the business. R&D is now part of everyday life and everyone is striving to do things better. “The project helped show the art of the possible and changed hearts and minds.”

 The project has also seen a dramatic shift in the culture within the business. Shop floor staff have been upskilled and empowered to problem-solve and collaborate with other departments. The flexibility has given the production team a more positive attitude towards prototype work and experimentation.

Gareth Hughes, Centre Manager CIST & Innovation, Grp Llandrillo Menai, said: 

“The KTP project with Fifth Wheel has been a very technically challenging project which has produced excellent outcomes to both the college and company.”

Vaughan Gething, Minister for the Economy, Welsh Government, said: 

“Knowledge Transfer Partnerships offer real solutions to difficult problems for industry, and this example recognises their ability to help solve problems by having a real business impact. In Wales, industry and academia continue to collaborate so positively for the benefit of future generations and the Welsh Government will continue to support that.”

 

About Knowledge Transfer Partnerships

Knowledge Transfer Partnerships are a dynamic three-way collaboration between a business or not for profit organisation, one of the UK’s world-class knowledge bases, and a suitably qualified graduate. 

Knowledge Transfer Partnerships are funded by a grant to the university from Innovate UK and other government co-funders, and a cash contribution from the business involved. The programme is delivered by Knowledge Transfer Network, a network partner of Innovate UK.

Interested in learning more? Find out here.

About Made Smarter

Made Smarter will improve the competitiveness, increase exports, and productivity of UK manufacturers and supply chains through fully-funded access to support, guidance and grant funding for the adoption of industrial digital technologies.

Find out more here.

Adopting AI in Manufacturing: How to Access KTP Funding to Close Your Knowledge Gap

Despite the impact of Covid-19 and Brexit, the UK manufacturing sector showed strong growth in 2021 (MarkItEconomics, 2022); however, in the light of the current geopolitical situation, supply chains have been further disrupted triggering input-cost inflation. Furthermore, maintaining a skilled workforce still represents a challenge.

Continued growth and productivity can be enabled – in part – by focusing on technology adoption and automation, which in turn will drive the required upskilling and workforce productivity the sector needs while cutting costs. In order to achieve this, we are keen to support strategic initiatives around the adoption of AI, especially for SMEs and businesses that have been affected by the current global challenges.

The AI team at Innovate UK KTN, in collaboration with the Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) programme and the Manufacturing Made Smarter Innovation Network will deliver two virtual interactive sessions where manufacturing businesses from all sectors will have the opportunity to explore the uses of Artificial Intelligence within their operations.

During these sessions, we will also help identify projects that can be funded through the KTP programme – an open competition which offers support rates between 50-75% of the eligible project costs, that link forward-thinking businesses with the UK’s world-class knowledge bases to deliver innovation projects. During the webinars, attendees will get the chance to learn further details about the programme, with dedicated KTP Advisers available to facilitate the discussions and help shape potential projects and consortiums.

Target audience and deadline

Manufacturing businesses are active in any sector, regardless of their size.

The aim of the webinars is to identify businesses or clusters of businesses that could have either similar manufacturing challenges or different challenges sharing the same solution and to identify businesses interested to lead on a KTP project in order to deliver positive change in a cohesive manner.

The initiative will be delivered as a two-hour interactive virtual roundtable on the 19th of May. The format of the session will be based on the answers that you provide during the application.

Please submit your expression of interest by 9th May 2022 and you will receive a confirmation of the outcome of your application shortly after.

Agenda

Session 1 | 10:00-12:00

  • 10:00 – Session and KTP introduction
  • 10:10 – Breakout Rooms – The most pressing manufacturing challenge for the participants
  • 10:30 – Facilitator feedback
  • 10:40 – What is common among these challenges?
  • 11:00 – Break
  • 11:10 – KTP presentation
  • 11:30 – Facilitated project discussions and partnerships
  • 11:50 – Lead and go-ahead to apply for KTP funding and the next steps
  • 12:00 – Q&A, KTP advisers and Meeting Mojo open for private discussions.

Session 2 | 14:00-16:00

  • 14:00 – Session and KTP introduction
  • 14:10 – Breakout Rooms – The most pressing manufacturing challenge for the participants
  • 14:30 – Facilitator feedback
  • 14:40 – What is common among these challenges?
  • 15:00 – Break
  • 15:10 – KTP presentation
  • 15:30 – Facilitated project discussions and partnerships
  • 15:50 – Lead and go-ahead to apply for KTP funding and the next steps
  • 16:00 –  Q&A, KTP advisers and Meeting Mojo open for private discussions

Register here. 

Which awards are up for grabs? Innovate UK KTP Awards 2022

We are pleased to announce that nominations are now OPEN for this year’s Innovate UK KTP Awards. Every year the KTP Awards celebrate all that makes KTP special and In 2022, we aim to take a step forward. 

This year we’ll shine a light on the tremendous impact of the programme, not only on the people and organisations involved but at the wider societal level. In an effort to promote more of KTP, we have also decided to expand the award categories to seven, meaning there will be more opportunities to shine at the 2022 awards ceremony. 

The ceremony will happen on Wednesday the 12th of October, so make sure you have the date firmly in your diary (registration forms will be announced in due course). 

To start the nomination process, we need to have completed online forms by Friday 27th May at 12 pm by heading to the Awards platform here. To learn more about eligibility & criteria, please head here. 

Read on to learn a little more about the Award categories: 

Best Knowledge Transfer Partnership

This award honours the partnership which has brought the greatest benefits to all three participants, exceeding the expectations set out in their KTP proposal, and which best exemplifies innovation through collaboration.

Technical Excellence Award

This award recognises Partnerships that have demonstrated excellence in the application of engineering skills, interpreted in the broadest sense to recognise the continuing evolution of this field.

The Changing the World Award

This award recognises the wider impacts of KTP – those projects which have delivered significant societal/social or environmental benefits.

Business Impact and Transformation

This award recognises the partnership that has continued to demonstrate outstanding impact. By transforming the commercial outlook and accessing academic knowledge to deepen expertise, companies are able to expand their commercial capabilities and exploit market opportunities.  

KTP Academic of the Year Award

The KTP Academic of the Year Award recognises the outstanding contribution made to KTP by a member of academic staff and the role that they have had in influencing the uptake of KTP throughout their institution.

Best Knowledge Base KTP Support Team Award

This award recognises a team that has influenced and supported the sustained high-quality performance in KTP.

Future Leader

This award is for Associates who have shown exceptional skills, above and beyond the normal expectations of a KTP Associate, in driving and delivering innovation strategy; demonstrating great teamwork and outstanding leadership potential.

About the Innovate UK KTP Awards

The Awards recognise the people and partnerships behind the most inspiring and successful KTP projects in the UK. Highlighting these outstanding partnerships is just the tip of the iceberg, with more than 800 inspiring collaborations currently happening across the country. Each one is forging a new pathway for British Innovation, an aspiring graduate, an organisation looking to grow and a knowledge base looking to apply their expertise. 

Missed last year’s event? Access the Innovate UK KTP Awards 2021 here. To submit your nominations & learn more about eligibility and criteria, head here. 

UK National KTP Associates’ Conference – June 2022

Hosted by the University of the West of Scotland, this 2-day conference will be the first in-person National Associates’ conference since 2019 and will provide an opportunity for Associates to network, learn, be inspired and, most importantly come together.

Hosted by the UWS KTP Centre and based at our Paisley campus in the West of Scotland, the conference agenda has been developed based on community survey feedback from current KTP Associates across the UK. Although an in-person event, we plan on making use of emerging and enabling technology to maximise networking opportunities before, during and after the event and are finalising our own conference venue in the metaverse in support of this. This also provides a venue for virtual poster competitions and project showcasing and ties into one of the conference themes – Monetising the Metaverse. That said, the number one request from the community was for an in-person event with lots of networking opportunities, closely followed by inspiring stories and masterclasses spanning KTP project delivery, career planning and personal development, all delivered by KE professionals, sector leaders and current/former KTP associates.

Agenda

Both days will be at the UWS Paisley Campus.

Day 1 – 8 June 2022:
0800-0900: Registration & Welcome
0900-1000: Mindfulness – Prof Ross Deucher
1010-1110: Monetising The Metaverse
1110-1130: Networking
1130-1230: Breakout Sessions
1230-1400: Lunch & Networking
1400-1500: Keynote – Kieron Achara, Mbe
1510-1610: Breakout Sessions
1610-1630: Networking
1630-1700: Panel Discussion
1900-0030: Dinner & Ceilidh – Gynhill Hotel

Day 2 –   9 June 2022:
0900-0930: Networking
0930-1030: Breakout Sessions
1030-1100: Networking
1100-1200: Breakout Sessions
1210-1230: Prizegiving – Best Poster
1230-1400: Lunch & Networking

Breakouts List
1 – KTP Masterclass
2 – Life After KTP
3 – Metaverse Experience
4 – Developing Yourself

Tickets can be found here

Bristol to Swindon – Business Insights and Challenges

This event is relevant for all investable businesses located in the Greater Bristol, Bath, Wiltshire, or Gloucestershire area who are looking to share their business challenges and learn how they can be supported to achieve their innovation goals.

Recording now available

As we mark two years since the UK’s first lockdown, we want to know how your business has been affected, and how you are positioned for the future.

  • What new challenges has your business had to overcome?
  • Has your company’s resilience been tested?
  • What are your barriers to innovation?
  • What are your obstacles to growth?

Who should attend?

Whatever your business sector, if you are a Business Leader of a company located in the Greater Bristol, Bath, Wiltshire, or Gloucestershire area then we would like you to join our discussion forum.

You may be interested in managing complex supply chain and logistics; achieving scalable growth; developing new technologies;  responding to Net Zero targets; diversifying into new markets, embracing the digital revolution, increasing productivity, or gaining insights from your big data. Whatever your challenge, we are keen to know more.

Why attend?

  • Discuss business critical challenges
  • Share strategic business insights
  • Connect with national and international support agencies
  • Shape and curate the content of our follow-on events designed to match your needs with relevant solution providers
  • Receive support on your innovation journey

Agenda

  • 13:00 – Welcome and Introduction
  • 13:05 – One minute pitches from national and international support agencies
  • 13:15 – Business Leaders: ‘Challenges and Needs’ discussion forum
  • 13:55 – Concluding remarks and next steps

More details

There are a vast array of strategic business support and funding initiatives available. Understanding and deciphering which is the most suitable to address your specific need can often be a challenge. At InnovateUK-KTN our mission is to connect ideas, people, and communities to respond to business challenges and drive positive change through innovation.

Your invaluable feedback will underpin the framework for our next series of face-to-face themed workshops which will be held in collaboration with InnovateUK, InnovateUK Edge, The Defence and Security Accelerator, The British Business Bank and our local partner Universities. These round table discussions will enable us to delve into the most pressing regional business challenges by bringing together business leaders, with academic experts and potential solution providers. We will also highlight the different funding opportunities available to support your strategic business needs, such as Knowledge Transfer Partnerships.

About Innovate UK KTN

Our mission is to connect ideas, people, and communities to respond to business challenges and drive positive change through innovation.