This major national programme, delivered by UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) and led by Neath Port Talbot Council on behalf of the region, could unlock up to £20 million for South West Wales to accelerate innovation across two of its strongest sectors: clean energy and advanced materials.

What this means for South West Wales:

  • Energy security - Funding will support innovation in offshore wind, hydrogen and cleaner industrial energy, building on the Region’s strategic port infrastructure.
  • Materials security - Investment will help develop new ways to recover, recycle and process critical materials, reducing reliance on imports and strengthening supply chains.
  • Innovation-led growth - The fund aims to create high quality jobs, boost productivity and attract further public and private investment into the Region. 

The local authorities of Neath Port Talbot, Swansea, Carmarthenshire, and Pembrokeshire — working alongside businesses and research organisations — jointly backed the successful bid, demonstrating strong regional collaboration and a shared commitment to sustainable industries and long-term economic opportunity.

This announcement marks another major step forward for the Region, coming just two weeks after the launch of the SWWCJC Regional Investment Prospectus, which sets out a bold vision for sustainable growth supported by a diverse pipeline of strategic investment opportunities.

“Progressing to the next phase of the Local Innovation Partnerships Fund is a strong endorsement of the Region’s capabilities and our shared ambition for a cleaner, more resilient and more prosperous future. There is so much good work happening across South West Wales right now, and this announcement adds real momentum to the progress already underway. It reflects the strength of our partnerships and the confidence in our ability to deliver. This opportunity, secured through close collaboration between our local authorities, industry and research partners, positions South West Wales at the forefront of the UK’s transition to sustainable energy and advanced manufacturing. If successful, it will help unlock high quality jobs, strengthen supply chains and accelerate innovation in the sectors where we have real competitive strength.”
Councillor Rob Stewart, Chair of the SWWCJC
“South West Wales has great sector strengths in clean energy and advanced materials, and LIPF funding puts local leaders in the driving seat to build on them. That's how we create good jobs and grow the economy – not just in one area but in many communities across the UK.”
Professor Sir Ian Chapman, Chief Executive, UKRI
“This important milestone reflects the strength of partnership working across sectors within South West Wales. Swansea University's long-standing and internationally-recognised research excellence in clean energy and advanced materials is enhanced by the expertise, vision and ambition of our cluster partners, and we are a proud collaborator in an initiative with significant potential to drive innovation, nurture future skills and deliver real economic and social benefits for our region.”
Professor Paul Boyle, Vice-Chancellor of Swansea University
“I'm delighted that South-West Wales has been selected to progress to the portfolio development stage of the Local Innovation Partnership Fund. This recognition reflects the strength of the region's innovation cluster and builds on the legacy of the LCRI, FLEXIS, RICE and Launchpad programmes. Thanks to the ongoing commitment of our public and private sector partners, the LIPF funding will be a next vital step in creating a resilient, innovative industry within the region and strengthen Wales' position as a leading clean energy transition hub and remain a cornerstone of the UK industrial base.”
Ben Burggraaf, Net Zero Industry Wales Chief Executive Officer
“UWTSD is proud to support this partnership, which demonstrates the strength of collaboration across industry, local government, and academia in driving South West Wales's transition to a greener economy through innovation, skills development, and emerging technologies. This opportunity reinforces South West Wales's growing reputation as a centre for sustainable industrial innovation and highlights the role universities play in supporting future industries, developing talent, and enabling inclusive economic growth.”
Professor Elwen Evans, Vice-Chancellor of University of Wales Trinity Saint David