A KTP gives your business access to the expertise in the UK's universities, colleges and research organisations by working in partnership with academics or researchers.

Working together, you and your chosen research partner prepare a proposal for a project designed to enhance your business and the research partner then submits an application for funding to the DTI.

Once it is approved, you both recruit a suitably qualified graduate or technician known as a KTP associate to carry out the project work.

The project could look at improving existing products, or developing new ones, upgrading or streamlining a manufacturing or logistics process or even developing a marketing strategy.

The KTP associate works on site with your business and throughout the project, academics or researchers at the university, college or research organisation remain closely involved throughout the process.

KTPs can run from anything from six months to two years and are part funded by the DTI with typical annual running costs of just £16,000. This gives you the services of your KTP associate and also the time and expertise of the academics and researchers working with you.

These people will also have access to the facilities at the university or research establishment.

It is a "win-win" situation on both sides with your business acquiring new knowledge, expertise or improved processes and the KTP associate gaining valuable business experience and personal and professional development.

In many cases, the KTP associate becomes a full time employee of the company at the end of the project.

Businesses of all sizes in most industries and commercial sectors are eligible to take part. You can contact your local Business Link Advisor who should be able to put you in touch with a KTP office in a nearby university or college.

Alternatively, within the DTI, specialist KTP consultants can help you identify the research organisation with the most appropriate academics or researchers. You can visit their website at: www.dti.gov.uk/ktp or call: 01367 245 215.

Nick Heyes, who heads up the innovation and technology section of the DTI Marine Unit reckons he can see applications for this support product in many marine businesses.

"It's easy to remain blinkered when developing a product or process - bringing people in from external sectors, often stimulates ideas and innovation, " he told BB.

Heyes is always keen to hear of marine based KTP applications and if you do have any questions, you can email him direct at: nick.heyes@dti.gsi.gov.uk