Innovate UK’s Innovate Local Wales comes to Wrexham

Renowned for its rich traditions, heritage, and culture, Wales is also emerging as a hub of innovation, as highlighted on Tuesday, November 19th. From Wrexham-built aircraft wings to Newport-produced semiconductors powering smartphones, Wales is proving itself a powerhouse of modern ingenuity.

The event marked a significant milestone: one year since the co-launch of the Collaborative Innovation Plan for Wales by Innovate UK and the Welsh Government.

Dr Stella Peace, Interim Chair of Innovate UK, and Stacy Jones, Innovation Policy Outreach Manager for Welsh Government, opened proceedings by celebrating the plan’s impact. This collaboration has been instrumental in driving economic growth and unlocking new opportunities for Welsh businesses and communities by:

• Leveraging Wales’ strengths in Net Zero Industry and Agri-tech & Food Technologies clusters through the Launchpad programme.
• Supporting high value manufacturing, semiconductors, and offshore renewables through Catapults.
• Strengthening collaborations with local leaders to deliver tailored, high-impact support.

These initiatives underscore Wales’ vital role in the UK economy, fostering innovation that benefits businesses and communities nationwide.

Insights and success stories

To showcase the diverse range of support available, attendees heard pitches from key organisations including Business Wales, Technology Connected, Development Bank of Wales, Wrexham University, and Wales Innovation Network. A panel of local businesses followed by sharing their honest experience of their business innovation journey.

Jonny Charlton, founder of Tavelo Tandems, recounted his journey from a garden-shed startup to market success, producing carbon fiber tandem bikes. “Sometimes a disaster turns into an opportunity,” he reflected, crediting support from Innovate UK, Business Wales, and Welsh Government AMRC Cymru.

Dr. Youmna Mouhamad, CEO of Myana Naturals, discussed her personal and entrepreneurial growth in developing the Deluxe Detangler—a solution for textured hair care that addresses comfort and efficiency. “It’s important as a founder to understand yourself so you know who you are as a leader,” she emphasized.

Anna Burke, Managing Director of Animated Technologies, shared her journey to refine branding and messaging with Innovate UK Business Growth’s help. Reflecting on having to wear each hat of a business as a small start-up and not knowing where to start, she noted, “growth comes from being out of your comfort zone.”

Alex Newnes, co-founder of PlantSea, described the challenges and opportunities in creating seaweed-based polymers and materials as sustainable alternatives to plastic. Advising innovators to “ask as many questions as you can and leverage your network,” Newnes highlighted the importance of collaboration and persistence.

Building momentum for the future

The diversity of stories shared reinforced a key message: innovation in Wales thrives through multiple pathways and collaborative efforts. As businesses and organisations work together, the region is poised to unlock even greater potential, making strides in sustainability, manufacturing, and cutting-edge technologies.

With the Collaborative Innovation Plan for Wales as a blueprint for growth, the stage is set for continued success — showcasing Wales not just as a land of tradition, but as a beacon of innovation on the global stage.

Explore the Innovate UK products and services mentioned on the day

• Launchpads
• BIC Innovation – delivers Innovate UK Business Growth in Wales
• AMRC Cymru, part of the High Value Manufacturing Catapult
• Compound Semiconductor Applications Catapult
• Offshore Renewable Energy Catapult
• Knowledge Transfer Partnerships
• NoLimits
• Young Innovators
• Women in Innovation
• SMART grants

About Innovate Local

The Innovate Local programme is now in its sixth year and provides an unprecedented opportunity for businesses to find out more about the products and services offered through Innovate UK and our local partners, that can help guide and transform businesses.

Find out about upcoming Innovate Local events.

About Innovate UK

Innovate UK, part of UK Research and Innovation, is the UK’s innovation agency. It works to create a better future by inspiring, involving and investing in businesses developing life-changing innovations. Its mission is to help companies to grow through their development and commercialisation of new products, processes, and services, supported by an outstanding innovation ecosystem that is agile, inclusive and easy to navigate.