Knowledge Exchange Network (KEN)

Support for Scottish-based SMEs to develop low carbon technologies

About the KEN

Providing knowledge exchange and business development support to Scottish-based SMEs

Funding for the KEN Programme has now closed. Project Applications are no longer being accepted for KEN. Please look at our other Innovation Programmes.

The KEN offers Scottish businesses access to project funding to work with Scottish universities on projects that create low carbon products and services. Businesses can also access a wider portfolio of business support services.

KEN - Q and A

What can the KEN provide?

The KEN offers Scottish-based SMEs access to resources including project funding to work with Scottish universities on research and innovation projects to develop low carbon technologies.

Who is eligible to apply for funding?

We welcome applications from Scottish SMEs or non-Scottish SMEs who have or want to establish a base in Scotland.

What are the project requirements?

· The project idea must represent an advance in technological innovation that decreases transport emissions.

· The project idea must relate to a product and/or process that can be successfully commercialised.

· The project requires Research & Innovation that is delivered in collaboration with an academic partner from a Scottish university.

What energy technology areas does KEN cover?

The KEN focuses on 7 technology areas:

What contribution are businesses required to make?

Businesses must contribute a minimum of 30% of the total project costs. This can be an “in-kind” or cash contribution.

How much grant funding is available?

Funding up to £10,000 is available to support collaborative R&I projects with a Scottish university. Funding is awarded to low carbon proposals that clearly outline an innovative technical solution that can be successful commercialised.

Can I still get support if I'm not successful in securing funding?

Yes, we are able to offer a range of low carbon support services to businesses. This includes signposting to alternative funding sources, introductions and connections to business partners, support with writing grant applications, and general guidance.

What Next?: KEN - A step by step guide

Check your eligibility: You need to be a Scottish SME or SME with a base in Scotland.
Submit Expression of Interest (EoI): Fill out the following form to register your interest and start the process.
ETP introduction meeting: One of our Business Development Managers will be in contact to help you with your project, and to confirm whether it’s eligible for funding from us. We will then begin the process of accepting and refining your proposals and give whatever support necessary to take you to the next step.
Identifying an academic research partner: If your EOI is eligible for funding, our Business Development Manager will support you in identifying a suitable academic research partner from one of the 14 Scottish universities who are members of ETP’s research alliance (you may of course have a partner already.
Application development and submission: The Business Development Manager will support you and your research partner to complete and submit the funding application form.
Application assessment: Your application will be assessed by ETP and Scottish Enterprise, who fund the KEN. If approved, the requested funding amount will be awarded and then you can start work on the project with your academic partner.