Across Europe, universities and research institutions are being called upon to play a more active role in driving innovation, economic development, and societal progress. In this context, collaboration with industry is no longer just a funding opportunity or a way to validate research outcomes—it…
ASTP has released its White Paper on Knowledge and Technology Transfer Metrics, officially endorsed by the NAAC. The paper introduces the KTT Metrics Cube—a multidimensional framework to better capture the full spectrum of knowledge transfer activities, including societal and economic impacts.
ASTP European Annual Survey is open and we are collecting data on Knowledge Transfer activities and outputs.
At the 2025 Annual Conference in Vilnius, ASTP’s Special Interest Groups (SIGs) played a prominent role by hosting workshops for the first time.
Discover how the EPO’s Deep Tech Finder supports innovation and technology transfer by identifying Europe’s most promising start-ups. Join our Tea with ASTP webinar on 17 June 2025 to explore tailored use cases for the knowledge transfer community.
The IP4OS Horizon Europe project supports Europe's research landscape by fostering synergy between agile Intellectual Property (IP) management and Open Science (OS) practices. By joining our high-quality capacity-building programme, your research institution will be at the forefront of this…
ASTP launched the EDI Toolkit to support inclusive practices in knowledge transfer, with the EDI SIG actively promoting its use through events, webinars, and collaboration opportunities. Recent highlights include presentations in Vilnius and Eindhoven, with more initiatives planned.
ASTP celebrates the essential contributions of its volunteer community during Volunteers’ Week. This article highlights the role of Board members, committees, Special Interest Groups, and the 2025 Volunteer of the Year, Michael Karle, and invites knowledge transfer professionals to get involved.
The European Patent Office (EPO) has released a new Technology Insight Report highlighting a sharp increase in innovation in plastic waste management.
In this powerful personal essay, Leah reflects on her experience as one of the first openly transgender professionals in the field. The piece underscores the importance of visibility, solidarity, and the role of ASTP in fostering a more inclusive and equitable professional community.
The National Advisory Assessment Council (NAAC) is pleased to announce the publication of its latest comprehensive report, an in-depth expansion of the previously released white paper. This newly published document provides a thorough examination of key industry challenges, policy recommendations,…
The European Patent Office (EPO) Patent Index 2024 confirms Europe's strong commitment to innovation and knowledge transfer—despite economic uncertainty.
Despite growing awareness and progress, gender inequality continues to impact innovation across Europe — from representation in science and engineering to access to funding. Marking International Women’s Day, this article highlights key data on women's participation in innovation and explores…
ASTP introduces a proposed new Special Interest Group (SIG): Connect & Communicate with Impact (CCI SIG), led by Anneke Kenens (Hasselt University) and Eva Van Doren (University of Antwerp). This initiative aims to enhance storytelling, digital communication, and stakeholder engagement in knowledge…
The AgriFood SIG is back, with Andrew Carlin (EIT Food) as co-leader. To grow this initiative, we seek additional co-leaders and members passionate about agri-food innovation and knowledge exchange.
ASTP is proud to announce the launch of the first edition of the ASTP Impact Awards, designed to celebrate and reward outstanding achievements in knowledge transfer (KT). These awards recognise exceptional initiatives, successful collaborations, and impactful projects that drive innovation and…
Artificial intelligence and digital solutions are revolutionising knowledge transfer, making it faster, smarter, and more effective. ASTP is excited to introduce the first edition of the ASTP AI and Digital Innovations Awards, celebrating the trailblazing AI and digital tools that are transforming…
The ASTP 3rd Directors’ Forum, held on 6–7 February 2025 in Lille, France, gathered 31 KTO leaders from 12 countries to discuss AI’s impact on knowledge transfer. Key topics included AI tools, balancing automation with expertise, best practices, and policy strategies.
The European Patent Office (EPO) has initiated an online public consultation, open until 17 March, inviting input from a broad spectrum of stakeholders to shape the second biennial work plan (2026–2027) of its Observatory on Patents and Technology.
LifeArc is accepting applications for its 2025–2026 Knowledge Transfer Innovation Fellowship, a one-year programme for life scientists transitioning into technology transfer careers.
The 4th Interregional VIADUCT Meeting in Strasbourg gathered European stakeholders to discuss policy improvements and knowledge transfer for spin-off creation. The event featured expert talks, peer reviews, and study visits.
ASTP proudly announces the launch of its Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) Toolkit – Adapted for Europe, an essential resource designed to empower Knowledge and Technology Transfer Offices (K/TTOs) across Europe with actionable strategies to promote equity, celebrate diversity, and foster…
The IMPAC3T-IP project is introducing Classical Plus, an expanded licensing model that goes beyond traditional patent-based approaches. By including copyrights, know-how, and digital assets, this framework enables a more inclusive and sustainable way to transfer research outputs across disciplines.…
A new study from the European Patent Office (EPO) explores how innovation ecosystems are shaping the future of oncology, with knowledge transfer playing a crucial role in bridging the gap between research and market-ready solutions. New Frontiers in Oncology: An Evolving Innovation Ecosystem…
The INNOV-8-2-CREATE project is proud to announce the publication of its comprehensive toolkit, marking the culmination of a dedicated effort to enhance Europe's innovation ecosystem. This milestone represents a key achievement in fostering a more connected, inclusive, and efficient environment for…
ASTP is thrilled to invite the global knowledge transfer community to its 2025 Annual Conference, marking a significant milestone—25 years of growing the profession. This landmark event is scheduled for May 21–23, 2025, in the historic city of Vilnius, Lithuania. The journey continues in grand…
Inteum Company is offering a unique opportunity to attend the ASTP 2025 Annual Conference in Vilnius, Lithuania, from 21–23 May 2025. This scholarship is designed to support first-time attendees from organisations in the UK or EU with ASTP membership.
PraxisAuril, the UK's leading association for Knowledge Exchange (KE) professionals, will rebrand this December as Knowledge Exchange UK (KEUK), marking an exciting evolution that reflects the organisation’s commitment to advancing knowledge exchange practices across the UK and beyond.
The EPO-IEA report reveals a sevenfold increase in grid-related patents since 2005, driven by innovations in smart grids, AI, and sustainability. Highlighting Europe’s leadership, it identifies challenges in expanding connections, enhancing flexibility, and ensuring cybersecurity, emphasising…
Do you have the drive and vision to help ASTP further develop as the best members association for KTOs across Europe?
ASTP is launching a Spin-Off Special Interest Group (SIG) to support university and research spin-offs across Europe. Led by Florian Kirschenhofer from Max Planck Innovation, the SIG will be a platform for sharing best practices in start-up creation and support.
Explore ASTP's White Paper, endorsed by NAAC, “Catalysing Change: Exploring trends and strategies to enhance the spin-off process in Europe”. Learn strategies for innovation, knowledge transfer, and robust support systems to enhance research institutes' impact on competitiveness and development.
KT SoftSkills, an EU-funded project, is addressing a critical gap in the innovation ecosystem: the lack of soft skills training for knowledge transfer (KT) professionals. As the EU moves towards its Green Deal objectives and aims for climate neutrality by 2050, KT professionals—who connect…
As we are slowly moving from SSHA to SHAPE, it makes sense to dive deeper into the term’s origins. Starting with the most important detail, the term SHAPE stands for ‘Social sciences, Humanities and the Arts for People and the Economy’. It was coined by Professor Julia Black, Warden of…
The conversation around mental health has been gaining momentum, but in the Knowledge Transfer (KT) sector, it often remains a taboo subject. The ASTP Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Special Interest Group (EDI SIG) is working to change that by shining a light on the importance of mental…
Disruptive technologies and the future of innovation seem to increasingly rely on academic research. The role of universities in technology transfer—through licensing, research contracts, spin-out companies and collaborative projects—continues to grow. This is especially true in cutting-edge…
The EIT HEI Initiative Call for Proposals 2024 has a strong focus on enhancing the quality and competitiveness of European higher education. It will improve research and knowledge transfer from higher education and support business creation through strengthening collaboration between HEIs and…
The EU-funded project IMPAC3T-IP is leading an initiative to revolutionise IP licensing. By identifying gaps in current licensing tools and exploring new technological solutions, the project aims to create innovative tools for IP professionals. To achieve this, they are seeking input from those…
The European Patent Office (EPO) will host an online event, Patents and Innovation in European Universities, on 22 October 2024. The event will explore how to drive innovation from university labs and examine key trends in European universities. Over 15 experts, including economists and university…
Navigating the multifaceted role of a KT Professional: Insights from LifeArc Fellows
The UKRI Glossary of EDI Terms provides clear definitions of key terms related to equality, diversity, and inclusion. It supports a shared understanding within the research and innovation community, fostering inclusive practices and communication by clarifying complex concepts and terminology in…
IMPAC3T-IP is developing a toolkit comprising case studies, legal templates, and decision trees. Additionally, the project prioritises competence building, equipping knowledge transfer professionals with the skills needed to navigate these emerging challenges.
The Young Inventors Prize 2025, hosted by the European Patent Office (EPO), honours innovative minds aged 30 and under who are driving real-world impact aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Special Interest Group (SIGs) are exclusive communities of ASTP members. Join one, share knowledge and network with other KT professionals in your field.
Water scarcity and flood risk are intensifying across Europe due to climate change, impacting millions. In response, the European Patent Office (EPO) has spotlighted water-related innovation as a priority in 2024.
The 2024 EPO study analyses trends in water-related innovation for provision and protection, highlighting Europe's leadership, with Spain excelling. Though historically industry-led, universities and public research organisations are advancing. Innovation is growing but must accelerate to meet…
ASTP has released its latest Knowledge Transfer (KT) Survey Report based on data from the financial year 2021. With responses from 674 knowledge transfer offices (KTOs) across 21 European countries, this report offers valuable insights into KT activities, resources, and outputs in Europe.
June 2024, VIADUCT project partners convened in Tampere, Finland, for their third Interregional Project Meeting and Study Visit. Hosted by the Council of Tampere Region, the event featured knowledge exchange on regional strategies to boost spin-offs through smart specialisation.
Are you a young KT professional, within higher education and/or a research organisation, under 30 years old who can demonstrate an interest in self-improvement and honing their KT skills? Consider applying for this scholarship.
During the ASTP Annual Conference in Seville on 22–23 May 2024, the Social Sciences, Humanities, and Arts Special Interest Group (SSHA SIG) held two dynamic workshops led by long-time coordinator Christoph Köller.
Knowledge transfer offices have a key role to play in building a more inclusive innovation ecosystem. At ASTP’s 2024 Annual Conference, the EDI SIG introduced the upcoming ASTP EDI Toolkit—developed to help KT professionals integrate equity, diversity, and inclusion into their daily practices.
On 22 May 2024, the Digital Innovation SIG held its largest-ever interactive workshop during ASTP’s Annual Conference in Seville. Coordinated by Malcolm, Sigmar, Annemieke, Christoph, and Florian, the session gathered over 100 participants to explore hot topics in digital innovation, including AI…
Following a member-led initiative during ASTP’s 2024 Annual Conference in Seville, the Legal Special Interest Group (SIG) is being relaunched. Legal SIG members—including representatives from ETH Zurich—discussed future priorities such as exchanging best practices, developing collaboration…
The IMPAC3T-IP project is redefining knowledge transfer by expanding the scope of intellectual asset licensing beyond patents to include copyright-protected content and non-traditional research outputs. Focusing on Classical+, Crisis, and Co-creation licensing scenarios, the project is developing a…
Are you a female student or aspiring entrepreneur with a bold idea to tackle healthcare challenges? This blended training programme—combining online learning and onsite sessions in Vienna—is tailored to women with backgrounds in engineering, medicine, business, or life sciences.
On 2 May 2024, ASTP held its annual General Assembly online, reflecting on a year of strong growth, expanded events, and strategic development.
Have you tested a practice which is transforming knowledge and research results into practical solutions creating societal and/or economic value?
The Spanish National Research Council (CSIC) has approved its participation in three new spin-offs under its updated technology transfer procedure, aligned with Spain’s reformed Law of Science and Technology.
WIPO’s latest report, People at the Service of Technology Transfer, highlights the critical role of human resources in enabling effective knowledge transfer.
The YUFE alliance has released a new vision for a more demand-driven approach to knowledge valorisation, blending traditional technology push with responsive collaboration models. Developed as part of a Horizon 2020 project, the vision outlines a supranational strategy to strengthen…
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