Welsh Government funding backs high-tech diagnostics project in Deeside
A biotech firm in Deeside has secured £225,000 in Welsh Government funding to develop a new robotic dispensing system for diagnostic testing devices.
Biofortuna Limited received SMART Flexible Innovation Support to develop its BeadBot™ system, which the company says will increase manufacturing capacity and support international growth.
The Welsh Government said the project is one of 140 initiatives backed through a £20 million SMART funding programme launched in 2023. So far £17.9 million in innovation grants have been allocated.
According to the Welsh Government, the BeadBot™ system will automate a packing process currently carried out by qualified scientists and address a bottleneck that limits output.
The company has already secured £4.7 million in export contracts with Welsh Government support.
Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Energy and Planning, Rebecca Evans, said:
“We are committed to fostering a culture of innovation which will improve the lives of people across Wales. This includes building a Welsh economy based on the industries and services of the future.
“This pioneering processing system from Biofortuna will boost productivity significantly and positions the company to increase its share of a rapidly growing global market, protecting skilled jobs and creating the need for new ones.
“It also further strengthens Wales’ reputation for excellence in the dynamic life sciences and advanced manufacturing sectors.”
Chief Operating Officer at Biofortuna Limited, Dr Nick Leaves, said:
“The Welsh Government’s SFIS support will help us significantly increase our manufacturing capacity, accelerating market penetration in a rapidly growing and essential segment of the diagnostics market. This is great example of what can be achieved when Government and Industry work together.”
The Welsh Government said the SMART programme is designed to invest in research and innovation projects aimed at improving people’s lives.
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