Knowledge Transfer Ireland (KTI)

Definition

Knowledge Transfer Ireland (KTI) is a national organisation established to facilitate and promote knowledge transfer between Irish higher education institutions and industry. 

What is Knowledge Transfer Ireland?

Knowledge Transfer Ireland operates as a central point of contact for businesses seeking to access the expertise, research, and intellectual property generated by Irish universities, institutes of technology, and other research organisations. 

KTI acts as a matchmaking service, connecting businesses with researchers, academics, and research institutions to foster collaborative projects and partnerships. It helps companies identify relevant expertise, technologies, and research capabilities within the Irish research landscape.

KTI offers training programs, workshops, and resources to researchers, technology transfer professionals, and industry representatives on topics related to knowledge transfer, IP management, technology commercialisation, and innovation best practices. It helps build capacity and skills within the ecosystem to support effective collaboration and technology transfer activities.

Furthermore, KTI works closely with government agencies, policymakers, and industry associations to inform policy development and initiatives aimed at improving the innovation ecosystem and supporting knowledge transfer activities. It advocates for policies and regulations that promote collaboration and entrepreneurship.

Lastly, KTI collects data and generates metrics to assess the impact and effectiveness of knowledge transfer activities in Ireland. It tracks indicators such as research collaborations, industry partnerships, IP commercialisation outcomes, and economic benefits to demonstrate the value of research-industry collaboration and inform strategic decision-making.

Example of Knowledge Transfer Ireland

An example of Knowledge Transfer Ireland could be a scenario where a pharmaceutical company in Ireland seeks to develop a new drug but lacks expertise. KTI would help connect the company with researchers at a nearby university who specialise in that particular field. Through collaboration facilitated by KTI, the company gains access to the necessary expertise, resources, and research facilities to advance its drug development project. In return, the university researchers benefit from the opportunity to apply their expertise to real-world challenges and potentially contribute to the development of life-saving medications.