them with leading academics and a graduate who is looking to put their academic knowledge to work in business. Companies working with Essex on KTPs include global brands – such as BT and Leonardo – plus SMEs and high-growth start-ups. The University is now in the top ten in the UK for the number of KTP projects it works on with its project portfolio worth more than £6 million. Examples include: • Signal Media has won multiple awards and secured investment of £5.8m for its AI-powered business intelligence platform. • Above Surveying is combining drone technology with AI to monitor Europe’s booming solar farms. • Orbital Media is using machine learning to revolutionise the way patients are treated by developing an automated online GP service. • CGEye Ltd is developing a new augmented reality toolkit to push the boundaries of commercial app development.
developers delivered by leading industry professionals. As well as technical training, the developers learn business skills and are supported in getting companies off the ground. A new Innovation Centre is under construction which will provide space for 50 more start-ups to grow and scale-up. Opportunities for larger companies Space for bespoke building development is also available at the Knowledge Gateway, offering larger companies in knowledge- based sectors the chance to locate themselves close to the University. Sharing expertise, driving innovation Businesses don’t have to be resident on the Knowledge Gateway to access the University’s research expertise. There are several ways to partner with universities, and an increasingly popular option is through a government-funded Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP). KTPs are Innovate UK’s flagship programme to help companies innovate and grow. Companies work on a specific, strategic innovation project through a part-funded partnership with a university which connects
Business support The University of Essex supports businesses in a huge number of ways. Find out more at www.essex.ac.uk/business Scrutton Bland have extensive experience in working with higher and further educational establishments providing insurance, accounting and audit services. Speak to our specialist team on 01473 267000 or 01206 838400 or see www.scruttonbland. co.uk
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