Transferring Knowledge to Industry, 2kt
In the current economic climate most businesses could do with a little bit of expert support and guidance, never mind a cash injection. People may be surprised to learn that the much-needed expertise necessary to take a business to the next level can actually be found within academic institutions.
2kt a collaboration between eight institutions Queen Margaret University and Edinburgh Napier, Carnegie, Stevenson, Telford, Oatridge, Elmwood and Jewel and Esk colleges aims to increase College and University working partnerships with small and medium sizes enterprises across Scotland.
The 2kt project pulls on the expertise of staff across all the partners to support small and medium sizes enterprises in the development of products, processes and service innovations. This can enable 2kt to play a valuable role by providing expert consultancy and support. Often sme just don't have enough staff to be experts in all areas of the business and it can be immensely helpful to have an individual who is dedicating their time, energy and expertise to a specific area of the business.
Ken Rutherford, Elmwood's Director of External Relationships said, "Now, more than ever, colleges have an important role to play in supporting the future of Scottish business. 2kt can offer expert consultancy and support in a diverse range of fields, which is invaluable in the current economic climate."
The 2kt initiative can provide support, through activities such as training needs analysis, which can identify training requirements. Often smaller companies just need a new prospective on their challenges and with the potential of some subsidised training available it is a good time to get in touch.
2kt is made up of a team of Business Development Executives aligned to Scotland's key sectors including tourism, construction, land based industries, food and drink and the creative industries. These executives can provide a range of information, advice and support including access to finance through specific funding schemes such as the 2kt Innovation Fund. This project can provide businesses with funds to underwrite the costs of bringing staff on board to help develop a specific project.
To discuss the 2kt initiative further contact Elmwood Colleges 2kt Business Executive Karen Dawson on 01334 658886 or email kdawson@elmwood.ac.uk
