Our Knowledge Exchange funding empowers partnerships between organisations and our academic community. By leveraging this support, we transform our world-class research into tangible solutions; delivering social, economic, and environmental benefits that resonate globally.
Partnerships funding guide
Read the full Knowledge Exchange Partnerships funding guide (PDF, 1,666KB).
Accelerating our real-world impact
The University of Manchester’s UK Research and Innovation Impact Acceleration Account (IAA) funding supports the translation of cutting-edge research into real-world applications, fostering innovation and delivering tangible benefits to society, the economy, and beyond.
Our IAA is designed to accelerate the journey from academic research to impactful solutions. It bridges the gap between research and application, enabling collaboration between academics, businesses, policymakers, and communities.
Focused on projects with the potential to create significant impact, IAA funding supports knowledge exchange, commercialisation, and partnership building to address pressing societal challenges and innovative commercial opportunities.
For more information about IAA funding, eligibility criteria, and application support, get in touch with our dedicated team.
Unlock innovation with KTP
Innovate UK Knowledge Transfer Partnerships (KTP) bring together the power of academic research, industry expertise, and the enthusiasm of graduates to drive business innovation and growth.
KTP facilitates the exchange of ideas and embedding of expertise, tailoring projects to meet specific business needs. Whether you're a small regional SME or a large multinational corporation, a KTP with us can help you:
- innovate and launch novel products and systems;
- enhance efficiencies in processes and frameworks;
- upskill your workforce and embed lasting knowledge;
- enter new markets and boost profitability.
This flexible and collaborative approach accelerates business growth, giving you a competitive edge.
The KTP programme is one of the UK Government's most successful initiatives, supported primarily by Innovate UK, alongside Research Councils, it has been enabling businesses to innovate sustainably for 50 years.
Benefits include:
- Financial support – partnerships receive 67%-50% grant funding towards project costs.
- Expert guidance from our Knowledge Exchange team and Innovate UK, from project scoping to funding application and whole project lifecycle.
- Regular funding rounds – opportunities to apply for funding are available throughout the year.
KTPs are built on a dynamic collaboration between three key partners:
- Businesses – gain access to world-class academic expertise, driving innovation and embedding knowledge for sustainable growth.
- Graduates – enjoy a unique career springboard, leading strategic innovation projects with opportunities to apply skills in a real-world setting.
- Academics – apply research outcomes to solve industry challenges, expanding the impact of their expertise.
Projects typically last between 12 and 36 months, focusing on strategic innovation and delivering lasting benefits for all participants.
Start a conversation
Take the next step towards innovation and growth with a Knowledge Transfer Partnership, start your journey today.