M-SParc — Wales’ first dedicated science park — has spotlighted the region’s growing role in life sciences by hosting a major Innovation Conference for Health and Social Care.
The event brought together healthcare professionals, innovators, researchers, startups, and public sector leaders for a day of collaboration, learning, and forward-thinking. A key highlight of the conference was a keynote speech from the Chief Medical Officer for Wales, Professor Isabel Oliver, reflecting the sector’s strategic importance at a national level.
The conference heard how life sciences is one of the fastest-growing sectors in the UK and North Wales is carving out a unique space within it. From medtech startups to digital health pioneers, the region emerged as a hub of creativity, purpose and impact. M-SParc, located in Gaerwen, Anglesey, has been central to that progress.
As a home to innovative businesses and research organisations, M-SParc provides more than just lab space and facilities. It acts as a catalyst for collaboration between academia, industry, the NHS, and social care providers. The conference built on that ethos, creating a space to share ideas, explore solutions, and foster partnerships that improved outcomes for patients and communities.
“This event wasn’t just about talking — it was about making things happen,” said Gwenllian Owen, Health and Care Innovation Co-ordinator at M-SParc.
“We wanted to break down barriers between sectors and shine a light on the incredible work happening here in North Wales, which is having real-world impact across the health and care landscape.”
The one-day event featured a mix of keynote talks, introductions to new innovations, and networking opportunities.
Topics included:
- Innovation in Cancer
- Digital Transformation in Health and Care
- Remote Diagnostics and Patient-Led Innovations
- Collaboration Between Startups and Health Boards
Attendees heard from frontline professionals, tech developers, academics, and policy-makers — all united by a common goal: to drive meaningful innovation in health and social care.
M-SParc already plays host to several companies and research groups active in the life sciences sector. These range from developers of health-focused apps and wearable technologies to companies pioneering environmental monitoring for public health. The science park’s close ties with Bangor University, Life Sciences Hub Wales, Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board, and social care partners makes it a bridge between research and real-world application.
“We believe that North Wales can lead the way in transforming health and care,” added Pryderi ap Rhisiart, Managing Director of M-SParc.
“And this event was our invitation to the sector — to come and be part of that journey.”
