A fresh wave of innovation is sweeping across Mid and North Wales, as pioneering businesses receive support from Innovate UK’s Nurturing Innovation in the Agri-tech and Food Technology Cluster. This initiative is not only fostering creativity but also addressing some of the most pressing challenges in the food and farming industry.
Thirteen companies have been awarded funding under the Minimal Financial Assistance (MFA) route, enabling them to explore and develop ideas that could transform the sector. The projects range from sustainable production and food safety to smart processing and robotics, showcasing the diversity and potential of the region’s agri-tech and food-tech sectors.
One such project is Agroceutical Products Ltd’s Wool2Lube, which aims to tackle the underutilization of Welsh sheep wool and the global demand for sustainable lubricants. Meanwhile, Amped Pcr Ltd is developing a smart data dashboard to enhance its rapid pathogen detection system, PurifAI, providing real-time, predictive insights to support safer and more efficient global food supply chains.
Other notable projects include Arcitekbio Ltd’s XyloPrO-CX, which seeks to commercialize a sustainable fermentation process to produce eco-friendly xylitol from waste, and Chitexo Limited’s mealworm biorefinery model, turning local food waste into sustainable poultry feed. These initiatives not only address waste reduction and emissions but also support a circular farming economy.
The implications of these projects are far-reaching. They represent a significant step towards a more sustainable and data-driven future for the food system. By supporting small-scale Research and Development and feasibility projects, the MFA awards are helping to build a more resilient and forward-thinking economy across Mid and North Wales.
Barbara Green, Project Manager for the Agri-Tech and Food Cluster Management Organisation of Mid and North Wales, Growing Mid Wales, emphasized the importance of these awards: “The MFA awards are a vital boost for innovation in our agri-tech and food-tech sectors. These projects demonstrate how even small-scale funding can unlock big ideas — from sustainable food systems to advanced diagnostics.”
The support from Innovate UK and the opening of a new competition for funding offer more businesses the chance to contribute to this growing network of innovation. As these projects develop, they are expected to deliver long-term impact, strengthening rural economies and supporting the transition to a more sustainable future.
The latest wave of innovation in Mid and North Wales is a testament to the region’s potential and the power of targeted support in addressing real-world challenges. As these projects progress, they will undoubtedly inspire further creativity and ambition, driving growth and sustainability in the agri-tech and food-tech sectors.