Knowledge Partners East of England (KEEP)

What is KEEP?

Knowledge Partners East of England (KEEP) is a 3-way partnership between a company, a local University and a recent graduate. It aims to help businesses achieve something different – a project where the expertise and skills of the University and a high-calibre graduate is needed to plan and implement.

Examples of how KEEP can benefit companies include:

• to develop and implement a marketing plan for a new product
• build a web site or integrate your databases
• improve manufacturing processes

How does it work?

The University and company work together to select a graduate to work in the organisation on a specific project over an agreed time (usually 3 or 6 months). The graduate is supported by an expert from the University who is committed for four hours a week as a supervisor/consultant to your company.

Who can benefit?

Small and medium-sized companies can benefit. It is important that you have a clear project in mind that stretches both your company and the graduate. It may be something you have always wanted for your company but have never had the resource to take on.

KEEP is part-funded by the East of England Development Agency (EEDA) so that the company only has to cover part of the cost. The government views such work as essential for the development and innovation of companies in a competitive global environment.