A Government-backed project that offers Welsh food companies technical and commercial support has reportedly delivered over £491 million impact to the sector since its launch in 2016.
Project HELIX is delivered by the three food centres across Wales that make up Food Innovation Wales. The project offers a range of funded support in response to the needs of the sector, including help with process operations, new product development and food safety certification.
Since July 2023, Project HELIX has been funded solely by Welsh Government and has reportedly delivered the following to the Welsh food industry:
- £119 million financial impact
- 101 jobs created and a further 3208 safeguarded
- 193 businesses supported with 60 businesses supported for the first time
- 384 training days delivered for 276 participants
- 52 new businesses assisted
- 87 new markets accessed
- 214 new food and drink products developed.
Cabinet Secretary for Climate Change and Rural Affairs, Huw Irranca-Davies, said: “Food plays a key role in supporting our economy and it is wonderful to see the impact Project HELIX is having on food and drink businesses in Wales.
“I am pleased to share that we will shortly be launching our Agri-Food Technology Challenge Fund to encourage agricultural and food businesses across Wales to develop technology-based solutions to challenges that affect their businesses.
“This fund will provide a total of £500,000 worth of support for projects, and I look forward to seeing how they benefit and innovate the sector.”
Commenting on the impact of Project HELIX, Professor David Lloyd on behalf of Food Innovation Wales said: “Project HELIX continues to offer invaluable support to the Welsh food and drink sector. Over the past year, there has been a particular focus on new product development targeted at growth markets and the evaluation of waste and processes to improve efficiency.
“With ongoing funding from the Welsh Government, Food Innovation Wales will continue to support the Welsh food and drink industry in addressing challenges and capitalising on opportunities.”
