Introducing the New ASTP Impact Awards

Knowledge transfer is built on stories: discoveries turned into solutions, of partnerships formed around shared purpose, and of dedicated professionals working behind the scenes to make innovation happen. Last year, ASTP launched the first edition of the Awards to shine a light on these achievements and bring our community’s successes to the forefront.

What became immediately clear was that impact takes many forms.A breakthrough initiative, a complex deal, a pioneering digital solution, or the tireless contribution of a volunteer each plays a different but essential role in strengthening Europe’s knowledge transfer ecosystem. In response, ASTP is expanding and unifying its awards into a more complete celebration of impact: the ASTP Impact Awards 2026.

What's New in the 2026 Edition?

• A wider lens on excellence: The 2026 Awards include five categories—three for KTO achievements and two recognising individual contributions—reflecting the full spectrum of impact within the knowledge transfer community.

• A clearer and fairer assessment process: A dedicated Awards Committee will review submissions, ensuring consistency, transparency, and careful evaluation across all categories. The Committee comprises Karen Laigaard, Jeff Skinner, Sally Cudmore, Lidia Aguilera and Krystian Gurba (Chair).

• A renewed focus on demonstrated impact: All nominated initiatives, deals, and innovations must show evidence of real-world impact achieved in 2025, ensuring the awards highlight the KT achievements shaping Europe today.

This updated edition brings all dimensions of impact under one umbrella, offering a richer, more connected view of the people, innovations, and achievements shaping our field.

The 2026 Award Categories

For Knowledge Transfer Offices (KTOs):

• KT Initiative of the Year Award
• KT Deal of the Year Award
• AI & Digital Innovation Award

For Individuals:

• Volunteers of the Year Award
• Lifetime Achievement Award

These individual awards are granted directly by the ASTP Board and are not open to nominations or member voting.

Who Can Apply for KTOs categories?

• Open to publicly funded research institutions in Europe that are ASTP members or employ ASTP members.
• The initiative, deal, or innovation must have demonstrated impact in 2025 (older projects are eligible only if the measurable impact ocurred in 2025).
• Nominations must be submitted by ASTP members.
• Self-nominations are allowed.
• Members of the Awards Committee cannot submit nominations.

How to Participate

Submit a nomination
Complete the official ASTP Impact Awards application form and submit it by 23 January 2026.

Shortlisting
The Awards Committee will review all eligible submissions and shortlist up to five candidates per category. Shortlisted nominees will then be invited to submit a three-minute video presenting their initiative, deal, or innovation.

Voting
In March 2026, ASTP members will vote online to determine the winners in the KTO categories. Individual awards are decided directly by the ASTP Board and are not subject to nomination or voting.

Awards Announcement
Winners will be announced and celebrated during the ASTP Annual Conference, taking place 20-22 May 2026 in Bucharest, Romania.

Join the Celebration of Knowledge Transfer Excellence

The ASTP Impact Awards provide a unique opportunity to showcase success stories and recognise the individuals and projects making a difference across Europe’s knowledge transfer community.

For full details on eligibility and submission guidelines, download the ASTP Impact Awards PDF or contact communications@astp4kt.eu.