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Grow your business

Innovate with us

Are you looking to develop new and innovative products? To address complex challenges within your business, industry or sector? Or interested in connecting with our academic expertise and world-changing research?

The University works with many external organisations to facilitate the creation of new research and commercial opportunities. Whether you're a local or global organisation, there are a number of different ways we can work together.

We have exceptional student talent looking for opportunities to gain commercial experience and share their knowledge. We have several ways that students and business can work together including:

Knowledge Transfer Partnerships (KTPs)

A KTP is a partnership project between your business, a Durham academic and a graduate. The graduate works for you as a Research Associate, bringing new skills and knowledge to your business, while being supported by the academic who will visit the company regularly. A KTP is part-funded by a grant and can last between 12 months and three years, depending on the project and the needs of the business.

For more information, please see our dedicated KTP page.

Contract Research Opportunities

Contract research is an excellent way for a business to explore and develop new ideas, products or create new intellectual property. Contract research opportunities are usually externally funded academic/scientific research activities based in the University and using our resources, academic expertise, technical support, and staff.

Collaborative Research Opportunities

Collaborative research opportunities involve the collective and collaborative efforts of our internal and external partners, researchers who work together from different academic departments and industry partners.

SME Internship Programme at Durham University

Are you a County Durham based SME?  Could your business benefit from the support and knowledge of a Durham University Intern? If so, the Durham SME Internship Programme, funded by UK Shared Prosperity Fund may be just what your business needs. Learn more about the 50:50 Match funded project offer

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ERDF Funded Programmes

Our ERDF programmes have now ended