Extra funding for innovation across Wales

£5.9 million of Welsh Government support has been given to businesses investing in research and innovation across the country.

Over fifty projects will be supported the Welsh Government to invest in equipment that will help develop and embed new innovative products and services.

The SMART Capital Equipment Fund and the Circular Economy Fund for Business provided the grants with the aim to invest in life-saving and sustainable improvements.

Julie James, minister for climate change, said: "Moving towards a circular economy in Wales, where we increase the use of recycled and re-used content in products or components, or extend the lifetime of products and materials, is a key part of the action needed on climate change."

She said the funding is one step further towards a "more sustainable future and a zero waste, low carbon Wales."

Projects receiving the funding include Coleg Y Cymoedd in Nantgarw, who will use the funding for a new centre for digital innovation, sustainability, entrepreneurship, and knowledge exchange.

Meanwhile, the Welsh Blood Service will get support for equipment to research and improve the manufacturing and storage conditions affecting the quality of blood components leading to improved care for patients who receive transfusions.

Wern Heulog Farm in Powys has also been given support towards an initiative in the River Wye water catchment area. It aims to develop more sustainable poultry farming by using black soldier fly larvae to feed on the litter in a controlled environment, breaking it down and reducing its volume – potentially by up to 70 per cent.