CORDIS Archive
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Infrastructure
The University of Wales, the 2nd largest University in the UK, together with the other Higher Education Institutes in Wales contain a wealth of expertise and a large investment in equipment. The importance of academic and industrial collaboration in Wales has been recently recognised by the launch of a new £3.5 million Centres of Excellence Programme (Sept. 2001). Twenty research groups have been awarded the new Centres of Excellence status. The initiative seeks to gives easy access to SMEs expertise to develop new products and services or to improve efficiencies and processes, enabling them to gain a competitive edge.Within the universities, specialist research centres have been established.
Wales's contribution to research is further strengthened by other research organisations covering a wide range of interests. They include the main site for the Institute for Grassland and Environmental Research, and the Research Headquarters for the National Museums and Galleries of Wales.
The National Council for Education and Training for Wales and the Higher Education Funding Council for Wales are Assembly Sponsored Public Bodies, responsible for all post-16 education and training in Wales. Together these organisations are known as ELWa, Education and Learning in Wales.
The Assembly offers grant support for businesses in Wales to become more competitive. Grants are potentially available for investment projects and innovation. For more information visit the following pages:
The (WDA) assists Welsh companies to raise their international competitiveness. The division administers and promotes a number of UK & EC innovation programmes in relation to company-college links,technology transfer, research and development, strategic management, energy efficiency and responding to environmental opportunities and pressure.
is the first stop shop for SMEs in Wales who need help with innovation, design and patent advice, business expansion, finance etc. Spearheading Business Connect's delivery of innovation and technology support is a network of Innovation and Technology Counsellors(ITCs).
Local authorities provide information and guidance on all issues of concern for SMEs right up to large organisations.
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Last updated: 11-03-2003  |
