Knowledge transfer between universities, business and the community is a topical subject of increasing importance. The first International Conference on 'Innovation through Knowledge Transfer: Research with Impact', InnovationKT'09, held in Kingston, London, UK, provided a rare and welcome opportunity to share some of the successes of knowledge transfer. The conference attracted 150 delegates and featured 42 oral presentations. This volume, representing the proceedings of the conference, contains 35 papers based on selected conference presentations.

The papers are divided into seven sections entitled ‘Key Knowledge Transfer Perspectives’, ‘Knowledge Transfer Case Studies’, ‘Innovative Knowledge Transfer Techniques’, ‘Strategic and Organisational Approaches to Knowledge Transfer’, ‘Knowledge transfer in the Arts and the Community’, ‘Knowledge Transfer Methodology and Practice’ and ‘Innovation and Enterprise’.

The first InnovationKT conference was unique in gathering such a tremendous range of knowledge transfer experience and expertise. This volume forms a valuable resource for all those who are involved in knowledge transfer, or wish to know more about it. University academics can read examples of ways in which research can be commercialised, increasing impact and improving relevance. Knowledge transfer practitioners can find out about best practice in their subject and read case studies. Companies can read about how universities can help find solutions to their problems.

We recommend this volume as a statement of the benefits that knowledge transfer can bring to all those involved.