£4m research funding boost for Welsh manufacturing sector

Professor Hefin Rowlands, Astute 2020 USW Principal Investigator

Manufacturing businesses across Wales can remain at the forefront of innovation, thanks to £4 million of EU funding announced by the Welsh Government.

The extra support will build on the success of Wales’ top higher education Institutions industry-led research partnership by extending the ASTUTE 2020 (Advanced Sustainable Manufacturing Technologies) operation.

Led by Swansea University in collaboration with Aberystwyth University, Cardiff University, University of South Wales (USW) and the University of Wales Trinity Saint David, ASTUTE 2020 has been collaborating with industry for ten years, delivering high impact demand-led research, development and innovation within the manufacturing sector across Wales.

Thanks to the additional funding from the European Regional Development Fund, ASTUTE 2020 can continue to support businesses until September 2022.

ASTUTE 2020’s world-class academics and highly qualified technical experts utilise a multi-disciplinary approach that encompasses research, latest innovations, specialist expertise and state-of-the-art facilities.

The team supports businesses to de-risk and implement change, exploit new and existing opportunities and develop sustainable products and services through integrated application of knowledge, information, equipment, materials and people.

Professor Hefin Rowlands, Astute 2020 USW Principal Investigator said:

"The University of South Wales is delighted to be a partner in the Astute 2020 project which is already having an impact on Welsh manufacturing businesses.

“The extra funding for the project is welcomed. It will enable further support for more manufacturing companies in Wales to improve their products and processes during these uncertain times.”

Minister for Economy, Transport, and North Wales, Ken Skates, said:

“The coronavirus pandemic has shown how incredibly important it is our manufacturing sector has the support and resources it needs to adapt its processes and operations as required.

“I am delighted this funding will support the sector and am confident it will help us find important, innovative solutions as we continue to navigate this public health crisis and shape life after it.”

The ASTUTE 2020 operation, supporting manufacturing companies across Wales, has been part-funded by the European Regional Development Fund through the Welsh Government and the participating Higher Education Institutions.