Innovation in the mid Wales economy
A joint event between Ceredigion County Council and Aberystwyth University was held at the Royal Welsh Showground on Monday 22 July. The event highlighted the importance of innovation to the mid Wales economy.
The event comes following a UK Government decision to support an Agri-Tech and food technology Launchpad with funding of £5 million to support business-led projects that focus on developing innovative ideas and practices within these sectors. The aim of the fund is to boost the rural economy by securing jobs, growth and higher productivity throughout north and mid Wales.
The objective of the launchpad is to build on existing activity and emerging opportunities in these sectors across mid and north Wales with the joint aim of increasing productivity through business-based innovation and contributing towards the decarbonisation of the wider agricultural sector.
Representatives from Ceredigion County Council, Aberystwyth University, key partners in the field of agriculture and food and several companies that have previously benefitted from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund were in attendance at the event to highlight their innovative work: Yma, Nellie Technologies, ArcitekBio, Enviro365, Hybu Cig Cymru, PlantSea and Shire Meadery.
Leader of Ceredigion County Council, Councillor Bryan Davies, emphasised the importance of building on our strengths in agri-food & tech, stating: “This potential investment is a significant step forward and really builds on the strengths of our rural economy. By fostering innovation and collaboration between businesses and academic institutions, we could ensure that mid and north Wales remain at the forefront of agricultural and food technology advancements."
Professor Jon Timmis, Vice-Chancellor of Aberystwyth University, welcomed the initiative, saying: "As an institution, we are very proud of the central role we play in the economy of mid Wales, and the economy of Wales as a whole. Over the past 150 years, the University has been the birthplace of many ideas that have driven economic innovation. This initiative offers an excellent opportunity for us to create more well-paid jobs. Aberystwyth is particularly fortunate to have world-leading experts in the fields of agriculture and food. The impacts of their work are felt, not just locally and nationally, but across the planet – answering questions and solving challenges which help move us forward. We know that the growth agenda is a top priority for government - and ensuring that the benefits of growth reach all our regions in Wales is a goal that we all share. Looking to the future, further collaboration between government, industry and the higher education sector will be essential for us to ensure that our communities thrive.”
The event showcased the collaborative efforts and ongoing innovation in mid Wales, setting the stage for a prosperous future driven by technological advancements and strategic partnerships.