Knowledge Transfer Partnerships in the construction industry: it takes three to tango! Walker, C., Mulcrone, J. and Ellis, R.C.T. Corresponding Author: Claire Walker Myddelton Construction Ltd. Myddelton Lodge Langbar Road Ilkley West Yorkshire LS29 0EB email: cwalker@myddelton.co.uk Abstract The construction industry must significantly improve its performance if it is to compete in the long term, states ConstructionSkills (CS). In an industry where 95% of the construction firms in the UK employ fewer than 10 people, CS consider it vital that Small Medium Enterprises possess the necessary business skills to increase their profitability, if industry-wide performance targets are to be achieved. Knowledge Transfer Partnerships (KTPs) are a three-way collaboration normally between a university, a company and a recently qualified graduate. Under the joint supervision of the university and the business, the Department of Trade and Industry seek to: transfer knowledge and the spread of technical and business skills; increase the extent of interactions by businesses with the knowledge base; stimulate business training and research; and provide company-based training for recently qualified people. This paper examines the potential benefits that KTPs can offer the construction industry and academia. The findings of an on-line questionnaire and case study support the view that KTPs are closely aligned with the sector’s needs. Opportunities to enhance industry performance and the flow of knowledge between partner organisations are plentiful, but success ultimately relies upon the commitment of senior management within the company, the KTP Associate’s capabilities and the quality of support from the knowledge base. Keywords: knowledge transfer; small medium enterprises; training