A series of transformative initiatives aimed at propelling the region’s economic growth and sustainability are made possible through UK Shared Prosperity Funding. Administered by Neath Port Talbot Council, these seven projects represent a strategic investment in innovation, entrepreneurship, and environmental stewardship.

Swansea University gained UKSPF funding for four separate initiatives:

• The Applied Research for Circular Solutions (ARCS) programme, which empowers businesses to embrace the circular economy, unlocking economic, environmental, and social benefits. Leveraging academic expertise, the project offers bespoke support and research, guiding companies towards sustainable practices and facilitating their transition to a net-zero future.
• NPT-FLOWRD, which aims to cultivate a regional supply chain for floating offshore wind power, positioning NPT-based enterprises at the forefront of renewable energy innovation. By supporting research and development projects, the initiative paves the way for the integration of NPT businesses into the growing FLOW industry, contributing to Wales’ clean energy ambitions.
• AGOR which is the Welsh word meaning ‘open’, fosters collaboration and innovation within NPT’s emerging ecosystem, leveraging local strengths and infrastructure to drive economic resilience. Through agile partnerships and community engagement, AGOR empowers organisations to establish and expand their presence in the county, fuelling entrepreneurship and growth.
• Clean Growth Innovation Communities (CGIC) programme supports local organisations in enhancing their innovation and circular economy capabilities. By fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange, CGIC equips professionals with the tools to decarbonise operations and redesign products and services, driving sustainable growth across Neath Port Talbot.

The University of South Wales’ Centre of Excellence in Mobile and Emerging Technologies (CEMET) project addresses the critical gap between idea generation and market realisation by providing tailored support to local startups, SMEs, and social enterprises. Through a comprehensive six to eight week programme, businesses in NPT will receive vital resources, including business diagnostic, product road-mapping, product-development, user-centric design, knowledge exchange and training, culminating in the creation of a proof-of-concept software or hardware system with which to test the market and secure further grant and investment opportunities. This will enable businesses to experience growth and offer higher skilled employment opportunities in the local area.

The University of Wales Trinity St. Davids, PACE Cymru (Productivity, Acceleration, Collaboration, Efficiency) project facilitates strategic partnerships between local industry and academia, promoting the adoption of emerging technologies for productivity and net-zero objectives. By providing accessible support packages and fostering collaboration, PACE Cymru drives innovation and research in the region.

And Neath Port Talbot Council in partnership with Tai Tarian and Cardiff University’s School of Architecture delivers the innovative Homes as Power Stations (HAPS), Retrofit Demo House project, showcasing retrofit solutions, connectivity advancements, and IoT integration, setting the standard for sustainable, future-ready homes.

Neath Port Talbot Councillor Jeremy Hurley, Cabinet Member for Climate Change and Economic Growth, said:

“I am thrilled to see these transformative initiatives in Neath Port Talbot. These projects, made possible through UK Shared Prosperity Funding, represent a significant step towards driving economic growth while prioritising sustainability and environmental stewardship. By fostering innovation, entrepreneurship, and collaboration, we are not only positioning our region as a leader in clean energy and circular economy practices but also creating opportunities for inclusive growth and prosperity for all residents. I am proud to be part of a council that is committed to building a prosperous and sustainable future for our community”.

Through strategic investments and collaborative partnerships, the council aims to build a prosperous and sustainable future for all residents. These seven projects underscore Neath Port Talbot Council’s commitment to driving inclusive growth, fostering innovation, and safeguarding the environment.