Accessing Knowledge
The majority of London's universities and research bodies have knowledge transfer and technology transfer offices that can direct businesses to relevant areas of expertise in their organisations and assist with collaborative partnerships.
In addition London has three key organisations which provide a brokerage service between businesses seeking to tap into the wealth science, technology and design R&D expertise that the capital's knowledge base can offer:
- Knowledge East : offers access to the resources and expertise of eight universities and colleges in East London and the Thames Gateway, and capitalises on the skills and knowledge of over 5000 academics and more than 40 top-rated research departments.
- London Technology Network: LTN offers businesses solutions to their R&D needs by providing a single point of targeted access to the expertise and technologies of some 6,000 academics in London, the East and the South East. Technology exchange is facilitated by providing one-to-one meetings, road-shows, site meetings and topical networking events.
- WestFocus: A consortium of seven universities based in South and West London, and the Thames Valley, which works in partnership with businesses and community groups. The WestFocus Knowledge and Business Development Networks are communities of best practice that encourage the sharing and exploitation of innovation, knowledge and skills.