In a significant boost to the agricultural and food technology sectors, several innovative projects in Mid and North Wales are set to receive funding as part of the agri-tech and food technology cluster initiative. This programme, designed to drive innovation and address key challenges in the agri-food sector, includes a diverse range of projects that promise to revolutionize various aspects of food production and sustainability.
Among the notable projects is one by Lanotech Ltd in Powys, which aims to transform Welsh wool into premium feed ingredients. By converting low-value Welsh wool into high-energy, feed-grade lanolin, the project seeks to replace imported soy and palm oil, thereby creating a circular agricultural model. This initiative not only boosts farm incomes but also cuts emissions and strengthens rural economies.
Another innovative project comes from PlantSea Ltd in Denbighshire, which is developing seaweed-based sustainable food packaging. This initiative aims to create recyclable and home-compostable packaging films from seaweed, providing an eco-friendly alternative to single-use plastics and aluminium laminates. This project aligns with the growing global demand for sustainable packaging solutions.
TetrimTeas Cyf in Ceredigion and Gwynedd is working on NutriBREAD Cymru, a project to develop nutritionally enhanced white bread using Welsh-grown mushrooms. This initiative aims to boost vitamin D, protein, and fibre content in bread, thereby improving public health and supporting sustainable regional food production.
The projects are coordinated by a cluster management organisation led by Growing Mid Wales and delivered in partnership with Ambition North Wales, M-Sparc, AberInnovation, AMRC Cymru, Innovate UK, and the Welsh Government. The cluster promotes a wide range of funding opportunities and provides dedicated support to businesses and research partners, helping to accelerate technological advancements in agriculture and food production.
Louise Jones, Wales Manager at Innovate UK, highlighted the significance of these awards, stating, “These awards highlight the depth of innovation capability across Mid and North Wales. Collaborative R&D funding helps businesses work with partners to reduce risk, accelerate innovation and bring new ideas closer to market.”
The Agri-tech and Food Technology Cluster for Mid and North Wales brings together businesses, researchers, and delivery partners to accelerate innovation. The Agri-tech Cluster, managed by M-SParc, supports businesses working in agricultural technologies such as precision farming, automation, and biotechnologies. The Agri-food Cluster, managed by AberInnovation, focuses on innovation in food manufacturing, processing, and sustainability.
Barbara Green, Project Manager for the Agri-tech and Food Cluster Management Organisation of Mid and North Wales, Growing Mid Wales, emphasized the regional impact of these projects. “Together, these projects showcase the ambition, creativity and technical excellence coming out of Mid and North Wales. Just as importantly, this investment is being spent in the region — supporting local businesses, researchers and farmers to turn bold ideas into practical innovations that have the potential to deliver economic and environmental benefits for the region.”
Elliw Hughes, Agri-food and Tourism Programme Manager for the North Wales Growth Deal, Ambition North Wales, added, “This investment reflects the value of regional collaboration, supporting businesses to scale innovation and contribute to a more productive regional economy.”
Businesses interested in joining either the Agri-Food or Food Technology clusters and staying informed about future funding opportunities can find more information on the Growing Mid Wales website. This initiative not only fosters innovation but also strengthens the regional economy, promoting sustainable practices and technological advancements in the agri-food sector.