M-SParc recently hosted the First Minister of Wales, Eluned Morgan, who visited the science park to learn more about its ecosystem of innovation and its aspirations for the future. The focus of the visit was to learn more about one of the most powerful innovation eco-systems in Wales and discuss the opportunities afforded by the Freeport.
Pryderi ap Rhisiart, Managing Director of M-SParc, welcomed the First Minister and shared the science park’s ambitious plans to expand its site. With the anticipated freeport status and Welsh Government support to develop a second building, M-SParc is gearing up for a transformative year.
“This visit underscores the importance of innovation and collaboration in driving Wales’s economy forward,” said Pryderi ap Rhisiart.
“We’re excited about the future and the role M-SParc will play in shaping a thriving, sustainable economy.”
The Vice-Chancellor of Bangor University, Professor Edmund Burke, expressed his delight at the First Minister’s visit noting:
“We welcome the opportunity to showcase M-SParc, the University's Science Park, to the First Minister highlighting the achievements of the companies based here and the ground-breaking work of our Nuclear Futures Institute. The visit also provided an opportunity to share our plans for a second building at the Science Park and outline the benefits of our role in the Anglesey Freeport. Both the Freeport and the Science Park are central to our contribution to the regional economy, which is a key priority for the University.”
Recognising the science park as a hub of innovation, the University is eager to play a key role in the innovation initiatives tied to the freeport, further strengthening its connection between academia and industry.
During her visit, the First Minister met with three innovative businesses based at M-SParc:
- Hydrowing, a tidal turbine developer working to harness sustainable energy from marine environments.
- ai, a company specializing in bespoke AI platform development to drive technological progress.
- Pelly, a sports platform innovator that recently closed a successful funding round in collaboration with M-SParc and the Development Bank of Wales.
These businesses exemplify the diversity and creativity thriving within M-SParc’s ecosystem.
The First Minister also met students from Ysgol Esgeifiog, who were participating in STEM and enterprise activities as part of M-SParc’s outreach program. With three full-time teachers dedicated to connecting industry with the talent of the future, M-SParc is committed to fostering a strong pipeline of skilled professionals.
The visit concluded with a meeting at the Nuclear Futures Institute (NFI), where the First Minister engaged with Prof. Simon Middleburgh and his team. The NFI showcased its industry-facing research, which is paving the way for cutting-edge advancements in nuclear technology.
Speaking about her visit, the First Minister said:
“M-SParc embodies the innovative spirit of Wales, driving forward progress in key areas like renewable energy, artificial intelligence, and advanced research. The engagement with young talent and the connections between industry and academia are truly inspiring.”
With the support of the Welsh Government and the University, M-SParc is poised to continue its leadership in fostering innovation, sustainability, and economic growth in Wales. This visit highlights the vital role science parks play in shaping a prosperous future for the region.
