Proof of Concept Fund

From understanding knowledge transfer activities across Europe to addressing the challenges facing the sector and strengthening the profession itself, three recent publications highlight ASTP's growing contribution to Europe's knowledge transfer landscape.

A new report published by ASTP's National Associations Advisory Committee (NAAC), Strengthening the Knowledge and Technology Transfer Profession: Recognition, Competences and Career Pathways, explores these questions, looking at how the profession is recognised and supported across different…

New EPO Observatory study with ASTP and Fraunhofer ISI highlights public research’s strategic importance and Europe’s technology transfer gaps

The report brings together data from 489 Knowledge Transfer Offices (KTOs) across 19 European countries, offering an overview of how universities and public research organisations work with industry, manage intellectual property (IP), commercialise research and support new businesses.

For Christoph, the path to Registered Technology Transfer Professional (RTTP) recognition began with an early interest in intellectual property protection, encouragement from a mentor with a passion for patents and a career that gradually brought him closer to the world of research…

After a career spanning scientific research, the biotech industry and knowledge transfer, Nele Kindt sees Registered Technology Transfer Professional (RTTP) recognition as a natural next step in her professional development.

A Career of Leadership, Learning and Contribution to Knowledge Transfer. Now, her contribution to the profession has been recognised with the RTTP Fellow designation.

For Hélia Sales, Candidate Registered Technology Transfer Professional (RTTP) recognition marks an important step in a career that has taken her from scientific research into knowledge transfer and innovation.

Aritz Lasarte-Cia shares his journey from cancer research to knowledge transfer, reflecting on how Candidate RTTP, ASTP learning and the LifeArc Fellowship are helping him build his commercial expertise and support biomedical innovations towards patient impact.

For Esma Yagdi Efe, receiving Candidate Registered Technology Transfer Professional (RTTP) recognition is an important milestone in a journey that is still developing.

Růžena Štemberková reflects on her journey to RTTP recognition, sharing how continuous learning, professional experience and connections within the ASTP community have supported her development in knowledge transfer.

In this edition, you’ll explore the latest developments on the KV Competence Framework, read about the Alliance for Knowledge Valorisation (ALL4KV) project, discover the growing role of Venture Builders, and learn more about an exciting event on regional innovation policy in Seville. We also take…

Our Annual Conference 2027 is heading to Thessaloniki, Greece, from 19–21 May. Save the date and help shape the Annual Conference by sharing the topics you would like to see on the programme.

Ananay Aguilar and Sean Fielding, course directors of the new training course, share the ideas behind the course and what participants can expect in Seville.

Venture builders are emerging as key actors in academic spin-off creation, combining funding, expertise and networks. The European Commission is exploring how they can help accelerate research commercialisation and increase successful spin-outs.

What is a knowledge valorisation intermediary? Probably you. Explore a new European initiative to strengthen intermediary organisations and help shape a future competence framework.

Explore three IAM4RE learning formats for knowledge transfer professionals: a self-paced MOOC, expert-led Deep Dives, and a Train-the-Trainer programme to build institutional capacity.

As the holiday season continues, a little cultural awareness can make every journey more rewarding.

WIPO's Olga Kusanova shares how the Candidate RTTP pathway strengthened her professional development, recognised her international contribution to knowledge transfer, and reinforced the value of global professional standards.

Knowledge Transfer Expert Relika Williams shares how achieving RTTP recognition strengthened her confidence, reinforced her commitment to international professional standards, and inspired her to champion knowledge transfer and professional development within the Estonian KT community.

You’ve supported researchers, negotiated complex deals, guided spin-outs, and built bridges between academia and industry. Now it’s time to turn your achievements into global recognition.

Commercialisation Specialist Claire O'Brien shares how Candidate RTTP recognition has strengthened her confidence, supported her professional growth, and reinforced her commitment to translating research into real-world impact.

With a background in molecular biology and a passion for helping research create real-world impact, Izaskun Muruzábal Lecumberri has built a rewarding career in knowledge transfer. Recently recognised as a Registered Technology Transfer Professional (RTTP), she reflects on the experience that…

The pre-conference SIG workshops at the Annual Conference 2026 attracted strong engagement from members eager to exchange experiences, tackle shared challenges and learn from peers. The discussions highlighted the important role SIGs play in fostering collaboration and professional development…

We are exploring the creation of a new ASTP Special Interest Group (SIG) focused on Proof of Concept (PoC) and translational funding. Following strong interest from members at the ASTP Annual Conference, we invite you to complete a short survey and help shape the group's future activities,…

This recap of the ASTP EDI SIG annual meeting highlights practical EDI initiatives shared by Kit Bartlet, Sally Makady, and Andrew Carlin. Moderated by Danielle Counotte, the discussion explores strategies for increasing participation, reducing barriers, and embedding inclusion within knowledge…

Professional communities are built on people willing to share, learn and contribute. Jacek reflects on the role of peer learning, volunteering and knowledge exchange, and explains why ambitious knowledge transfer offices will be critical to the future of European innovation.

Our Annual Conference 2026 brought together 345 knowledge transfer professionals from 42 countries for three days of learning, networking and collaboration in Bucharest. From discussions on AI and university-industry collaboration to leadership transitions and the ASTP Impact Awards, the event…

We are pleased to announce the release of the second edition of the Handbook for National Associations in Knowledge Transfer, developed by our National Association Advisory Committee (NAAC) as a practical and community-driven resource for strengthening knowledge transfer ecosystems across Europe…

ASTP members have approved the new Board for 2026–2027, with Amanda Zeffman appointed President and Sally Cudmore joining as VP Communities. Discover the new leadership team and join us in shaping the future of knowledge transfer across Europe.

Meet Maeve Murphy from University College Cork, recipient of the Inteum scholarship for the ASTP Annual Conference 2026, as she looks to connect with peers and bring fresh perspectives on inclusive innovation back to her work at UCC.