This EPO Technology Insight Report provides a comprehensive analysis of innovation trends in plastic waste recovery, recycling, and alternative materials. Based on five decades of patent data, the report identifies key technological developments, highlights the role of startups and universities,…
Philippe Tschopp explored how aligning manufacturing design with regulatory and clinical strategy enhances the development of oral solid drug products. He focused on GMP, GLP, and TPP as key…
In this session, Sven Fiedl explores how start-ups and university spin-offs can build successful ventures using open source business models. From dual licensing and open core to cloud-based and…
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.
Leading a Knowledge Transfer Office is challenging, with critical decisions shaping success or failure. Tom Flanagan explores the Top 10 Mistakes KT Directors make, sharing insights from his…
Licensing university innovation can be challenging, even for experienced KE professionals. In this webinar, two industry experts share common pitfalls and practical advice, followed by a live Q&A to…
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.
Join Rick Bonants for an insightful one-hour webinar where he shares lessons learned from launching multiple spin-offs at TU Delft. Drawing on real-world experience, Rick will explore effective…
What does knowledge transfer look like in the humanities—and why does it matter? In this session, Miriam Fussangel showcases how researchers at the University of Cologne are applying cultural,…
Thomas Hanke (Evotec) shares his perspective on how to strategically plan and execute preclinical validation for translational academic research. Drawing on his experience at Evotec—a leading…
This session explores key regulatory challenges in software development, the impact of the EU Digital Decade regulation, and how companies can develop a strategic regulatory roadmap for effective…
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…
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 newly launched Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) Toolkit – Adapted for Europe, is 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 inclusion.
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.…
IMPAC3T-IP is an ambitious Coordination and Support Action that aims to develop, pilot and support the sustainable adoption of a scenario based licensing ToolBox through a certified user and trainer programme, for efficient IP licensing for market uptake and societal value creation. This document…
Discover how the Creative Launch Fund, a joint initiative by the University of Glasgow, the Glasgow School of Art, and The Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, supports innovation in the Arts and…
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…
Learn about essential IP strategies for healthcare spin-outs, focusing on how tailored approaches for biotech, pharma, and digital health innovations can ensure long-term success. Join experts Sara…
The INNOV-8-2-CREATE Toolkit is designed to enable universities, innovation hubs, and stakeholders across Europe to replicate the pre-accelerator programme effectively. In addition to providing step-by-step guidance, templates, and examples, the toolkit ensures the programme's sustainability,…
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…
Starting from humble beginnings, China has emerged as the world's largest patent filer and is becoming an IP powerhouse. According to the WIPO's Global Innovation Index 2024, China ranks 11th of the…
Join us for an insightful webinar, tailored for professionals engaged in knowledge transfer, to delve into the European AI Act and its impact on the sector. The session will provide an in-depth…
Discover how the Technology Investor Score (TIS) identifies key investors for European innovators, bridging funding gaps and enhancing support for technology-driven startups. Explore public-private collaboration, scaling challenges, and actionable insights for growth.
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 Digital Innovations SIG webinar explores software compliance with open-source licensing, focusing on ensuring ownership and avoiding third-party rights conflicts. Discussions include the use,…
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…
The WIPO Guide to Trade Secrets and Innovation highlights the strategic value of trade secrets in driving innovation and protecting confidential information. It provides an overview of trade secret systems, management practices, and their role in modern economies, offering insights for businesses,…
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.
In 2024, Tanja Kova?i? presents The Impact Fund of the University of Ljubljana – The HUD Fund in a webinar organised by SHAPE SIG. She highlights the fund’s role in enhancing social sciences,…
Join Katrina Bradley and BioMedical SIG for a webinar on market access strategies in life sciences. Learn to plan, execute, and optimise early tech deployment.
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.
The 8th ASTP- EU Forum continues the dialogue between European knowledge transfer professionals and staff of the European Commission. At this free online event, participants have the opportunity to…
In 2024, Nicoline Løvenskjold Guldsing presents Innovative SHAPE Developments in Denmark in a webinar organised by SHAPE SIG. She discusses the Danish SHAPE Taskforce’s collaborative strategy, new…
Mattia Ronchetti’s 2024 presentation at the Biomedical SIG webinar focuses on EU and US regulatory frameworks for medical devices. It explores classification, clinical evaluation, and development…
The 2022 handbook offers insights into city-university collaboration, developed through EUniverCities workshops (2019–2021). It highlights models, challenges, and benefits of partnerships, aiming to inspire European practitioners. This resource synthesises academic and municipal experiences into…
Empowering sustainable innovation: how soft skills drive collaboration between academia and business
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…
In this Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion SIG's webinar, speakers highlight how Knowledge Transfer Offices can drive change by fostering communication, work-life balance, and well-being, offering…
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…
Explore the connection between mental and physical health in this primer by Becca Switzer. Learn about diagnosis, treatment, and how embracing neurodiversity and mental health management can enhance quality of life and creativity.
Professor Roberta Guerrina shares her experience on enhancing SHAPE research impact. She explores how combining spinouts, consultancy, and policy, including her work with EQUAL In-Sight, helps…
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…
Sjaak Brinkkemper discusses entrepreneurship in ecosystems, focusing on the challenges of sustaining software companies. He examines key decisions in software production, including product…
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…
In this webinar, Matthias Versele, Executive Director of Drug Discovery at CD3-Cistim, discusses strategies for translational life sciences projects, from novel ideas to regulatory approval. He…
Julian Jantke's presentation, "Impact-at-Scale Pipeline in SHAPE," explores strategies for valorising research in social sciences, humanities, and related fields. It highlights tools like DLAS and…
This webinar provides an accurate yet delightful introduction and discussion of the key IP Rights related to the protection of software innovation. In one hour Maurits Westerik provides insights on…
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…
From September 2024 until May 2025 on the last Tuesday of the month, ASTP's BioMedical SIG invites you to participate in the new webinar series: 'From research and innovation to development: how to plan and execute translational projects in life sciences'.
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.
Aimed at individuals 30 and under, the Prize showcases the transformative power of youth-driven solutions and recognises the remarkable young people paving the way to a more sustainable future.
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 management are global issues exacerbated by climate change. In Europe, 12% of the population is at flood risk, and 30% in southern regions face permanent water stress. Technological innovation is crucial for tackling these challenges. The EPO’s Observatory on Patents and…
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…
The 2023 ASTP Executive Data Report for the financial year 2021 (FY2011) is now published and available to everyone. This report contains data of 674 KTOs from 21 European countries. It includes 97 aggregated KTO datasets from one National Association and 577 datasets from responding KTOs.
This report contains data of 674 KTOs from 21 European countries. It includes 97 aggregated KTO datasets from one National Association and 577 datasets from responding KTOs. The aggregated data was included in the summary overview and excluded from the detailed analysis in the remainder of the…
This seminar investigates the importance of these non-financial impacts, such as social, cultural, and environmental contributions. Additionally, it suggests a very simple but still useful…
On 11th and 12th June 2024, the VIADUCT project partners and stakeholders gathered in Tampere, Finland, for the third Interregional Project Meeting and Site Visit.
In the 8th World Lunch webinar, hosted by the Digital Innovations SIG, Brechtje Vreenegoor, Manager of KTO at Wageningen University, discusses the servitisation of open-source models. She explores…
In this Tea with ASTP Clare Dillon, InnerSource Researcher at the University of Galway, covered where academic OSPOs are located within institutions, their goals and the activities OSPO staff engage…
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.
Cornelia Peuser presents the EPO Observatory’s new Deep Tech Finder, a tool that blends the business profiles of around 8,300 investment-ready European start-ups with information on their patent…
On Wednesday, 22 May, and Thursday, 23 May, the Social Sciences, Humanities, and Arts Special Interest Group (SSHA SIG) held two impactful workshops at the ASTP Annual Conference in Seville, Spain.
Knowledge transfer offices are uniquely positioned to play a pivotal role in augmenting change in order to make the innovation ecosystem more inclusive and equitable. But as a knowledge transfer office, what can you do concretely to incorporate equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI) into your…
On Wednesday, 22 May, the Digital Innovation Special Interest Group (DI SIG) held an interactive workshop as part of the ASTP Annual Conference in Seville, Spain. The workshop, led by DI SIG coordinators Malcolm, Sigmar, Annemieke, Christoph, and Florian, saw an impressive attendance of over 100…
On the initiative of Legal SIG members from ETH Zurich, ASTP members interested in reviving the Legal SIG met during ASTP’s Annual Conference in Seville in May 2024.
In the current landscape of knowledge transfer, traditional methods are enduring a significant shift. As innovators, content creators and owners (researchers, engineers, artists, technical developers, etc.) seek to extract value from their intellectual assets in innovative ways, projects like…
Receive mentoring from industry experts in big pharma, academia and healthcare as you learn to identify healthcare needs, build a dynamic team, create a business model, and pitch your ideas like a pro.
Opened by departing President, Christophe Haunold, members were updated on the challenges and successes of the past year.
The 7th ASTP- EU Forum continues the dialogue between European knowledge/technology transfer professionals and staff of the European Commission. At this free online event, you shall have the…
In the 7th World Lunch webinar, hosted by the Digital Innovations SIG, Florian Kirschenhofer presents updates to the Max Planck Society’s licensing model for spin-offs. He discusses its success,…
Relika Williams and Christophe Haunold share their experiences around creating, approving and executing IP management policy for universities. Three different perspectives: from a drafting point of…
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) approves its entry into 3 spin-offs driven by the implementation of a new technology transfer procedure
Who is responsible for managing technology transfer?
In the monthly online SSHA and Impact Flashlight, Birge Wolf discusses the SynSICRIS tool. This open-source tool aids project planning with impact pathways and monitoring, promoting innovation,…
The Young Universities for the Future of Europe (YUFE) alliance, which is one of the European University Alliances, has developed a common YUFE vision text for a more demand-driven approach to Knowledge Valorisation (KV).
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