Nine innovative projects have been awarded a share of £400,000 in funding from Innovate UK’s New Innovators in Agri-Tech and Food Technology competition. This investment is set to drive innovation, enhance sustainability, and solidify Mid and North Wales’ reputation as a leader in the agri-tech and food-tech sectors.
The funded projects span a wide range of initiatives, each addressing unique challenges and opportunities within the industry. Yr Ardd Fadarch Eryri, led by Madarch Cymru, aims to develop a nutritious, umami-rich mushroom-based vegan jerky. This product not only caters to the growing flexitarian market but also promotes sustainable and health-conscious snacking by reducing salt and trans-fat intake. Pant Du is focusing on producing a Welsh heritage Apple Cider Vinegar with enhanced health benefits, utilizing heritage apples and surplus cider to create a functional food product that supports both health and sustainability.
In the realm of farm training, Pasture Farming Ltd is introducing Tirlun.ai, a mobile Learning Management System designed to modernize farm training. This platform enables farm owners to create customized instructional videos, offering on-demand access and progress tracking to enhance productivity, efficiency, and skill development in the agricultural sector.
Tyn yr Onnen Farm’s Fungi Foods project aims to revolutionize mushroom production by developing automated, scalable blockmaking processes. This innovation will meet the growing demand from supermarkets and brands while supporting small-scale growers across the UK. Bionerg Ltd is supporting sheep farmers in Mid and North Wales by enhancing soil fertility and crop yields through the sustainable use of locally produced biochar. This project offers a cost-effective alternative to traditional fertilizers, promoting sustainable agriculture and environmental resilience.
UK Hospitality Solutions Ltd is developing a sustainable line of ready meals under the brand Sheeps and Leeks. This initiative leverages precision farming, innovative processing, and eco-friendly packaging to deliver nutritious, convenient options while supporting regional economic growth and sustainability in Wales.
Dyfi Dairy Ltd is pioneering a renewable energy-powered mobile milking parlour to support rotational grazing on upland dairy farms. This project aims to enhance carbon sequestration, soil health, animal welfare, and biodiversity, contributing to the UK dairy industry’s goal of carbon neutrality by 2050. LanoTech Ltd is exploring the feasibility of using lanolin, a sustainable by-product of British sheep wool, as an alternative fat source for monogastric animal feed. This project aims to reduce reliance on environmentally harmful imports, enhance food security, and add value to the UK wool industry.
Ymchwil Tetrim Research (YTR) will optimize ginger processing through advanced spray drying and analytical testing. The project aims to explore innovative uses for ginger juice as versatile food and drink ingredients. These projects not only drive innovation but also address critical challenges in agriculture, food production, and sustainability.
Barbara Green, Project Manager for the Agri-Tech and Food Cluster Management Organisation of Mid and North Wales, Growing Mid Wales, highlighted the transformative impact of these projects. She emphasized the importance of innovation and collaboration in driving economic growth, environmental sustainability, and community development. Louise Jones, Wales Manager from Innovate UK, expressed pride in supporting the Agri-Food Tech clusters in Mid and North Wales, noting the potential of these projects to tackle critical challenges in the industry. Elliw Hughes, Growth Deal Programme Manager, Ambition North Wales, praised the quality and breadth of the successful initiatives, reflecting the innovation taking place across the regions.
Over the next two years, the Cluster Management Organisation will coordinate activities and promote more funding opportunities from Innovate UK. Businesses interested in joining the Agri-Food or Food Technology clusters and staying informed about future funding opportunities can find more information on the Growing Mid Wales website.
