Nurturing Innovation in the Agri-tech and Food Technology Cluster for Mid and North Wales
Welcome to the Agri-Food Tech Launchpad, a unique opportunity to drive innovation in the agri-tech and food technology sectors across Mid and North Wales.
Funded by Innovate UK and coordinated by the Cluster Management Organisation (CMO), this Launchpad provides essential funding and support for businesses and research partners to drive technological advancements in agriculture and food production.
What is the CMO and Launchpad?
The Cluster Management Organisation (CMO) is responsible for promoting the Innovate UK Launchpad, which offers a £5 million funding pot for businesses and research partners. The Launchpad supports cutting-edge projects aimed at:
- Enhancing sustainability and resource efficiency in agriculture.
- Developing innovative food manufacturing and processing techniques.
- Strengthening supply chain resilience and adapting to new markets.
The CMO works closely with M-SParc and AberInnovation, who manage the agri-tech and agri-food clusters, respectively. Together, they will host events, webinars, and workshops, and communicate funding opportunities to businesses throughout the region.
Who Can Apply?
The Launchpad is open to micro and small businesses in the agri-tech and food technology sectors across Mid and North Wales. We will offer various funding opportunities through competition rounds, including:
- New Innovators: Grants of up to £50,000 for businesses new to Innovate UK funding.
- Minimal Funding Assistance (MFA): Smaller grants for innovative projects.
- Collaborative Research & Development (CR&D): Supporting collaborative projects between businesses and research institutions.
Get Involved:
We invite businesses and research partners to explore the opportunities available through the Launchpad and engage with the clusters.
Agri-tech Cluster
The Agri-tech Cluster is managed by M-SParc and supports businesses working in agricultural technologies, including precision farming, automation, and biotechnologies. With a dedicated website and tailored events, M-SParc connects businesses with the resources they need to innovate and grow.
Visit the M-SParc Agri-tech Cluster page: https://agritech.wales/
Agri-food Cluster
The Agri-food Cluster, managed by AberInnovation, focuses on innovations in food manufacturing, processing, and sustainability. AberInnovation aligns its offerings with the region's needs, helping businesses advance their projects and improve food security.
Visit the AberInnovation Agri-food Cluster page: https://aberinnovation.com/about/why-aberinnovation
All funding applications will be dealt with directly by Innovate UK.
Strategic Steering Group
The CMO is guided by a strategic steering group comprising key partners, including:
- Growing Mid Wales
- Ambition North Wales
- AberInnovation
- M-SParc
- Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (AMRC)
- Welsh Government
- Innovate UK
The steering group ensures the Launchpad aligns with regional and national strategies, enhancing collaboration across sectors to maximise impact.
Stay Connected:
Stay updated on the latest funding calls, events, and success stories by signing up to receive the Growing Mid Wales monthly newsletter. Visit www.growingmid.wales/Contact to sign up.
Through AberInnovation and M-SParc, the launchpad will provide funding, business support and access to an extensive network of innovators, researchers and industry leaders.
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