First conference for mid-Wales’ businesses held at AberInnovation deemed a success

01/12/2023
Teleri Davies

Aberystwyth Business School organised a conference for mid-Wales businesses on 22nd November at the AberInnovation Centre, Gogerddan campus.  Over 60 delegates represented 30 different organisations including a range of companies from the region and advisory groups such as Mid Wales Manufacturing Group, Antur Cymru and Business Wales who also had stands at the conference.

Carwyn Jones-Evans from Ceredigion Country Council opened the day as the keynote, speaking about the mid-Wales growth plan for both Powys and Ceredigion based companies and the opportunities this gave them.

Researchers from Aberystwyth University then paired with regional companies such as Delineate, CAT, Honno and Paveaways discussing pertinent topics such as community, well-being and sustainability.  This showcased how research feeds into real world applications. A good example is a smart homes research project from the university which dovetailed closely with the work EOM are doing in that area across mid-Wales, showing the importance of communications in improving performance, customer service and reducing the carbon footprint of businesses.  Holly Savage from the Smart Towns project was there to further advise companies in this area.

Delegates had plenty of networking opportunities and chance to detail their business challenges for the LPIP team to pick up and work with and communicate results back to them.

The day concluded with a talk from the CEO of AberInnovation, Rhian Hayward MBE and a tour of the centre, including the bio-refining facility.

Feedback from delegates was complimentary with all saying that it was worth a day away from their schedules. It is planned to hold another in 2024. 

For more details on this and how Aberystwyth Business School can help your business please email Julie Jones on [email protected].