August 20, 2026 - 200 views
Organisations across Wales are being invited to apply for grants of up to £250,000 to invest in new equipment, technology and innovation.
The latest round of the Welsh Government's SMART Flexible Innovation Support Capital Equipment Fund is now open for applications.
Grants of between £50,000 and £250,000 are available to help organisations improve productivity and efficiency, support long-term growth and develop more resource-efficient ways of working.
The funding is open to a wide range of organisations operating in Wales, including businesses, universities, research organisations, further education colleges, third sector organisations and NHS Health Boards.
Projects involving the reuse of materials and more efficient use of resources, supporting the development of a circular economy, are also being encouraged.
Since 2023, the SMART Flexible Innovation Support programme has supported 171 organisations across Wales, with more than £20.1 million in grant funding awarded.
The Welsh Government says the funding has helped organisations develop new products and services, improve productivity, explore new markets and introduce new ways of working.
It has also supported collaboration between businesses, universities and public sector organisations, with the aim of turning innovation into practical economic benefits for Wales.
The latest capital equipment fund can support the purchase and installation of machinery and equipment where organisations can demonstrate that the investment will improve productivity and deliver wider benefits for Wales.
The Cabinet Secretary for Enterprise, Connectivity and Energy said Wales had no shortage of ideas, talent and ambition, and that innovation was vital to improving productivity and closing the productivity gap with the rest of the UK.
The minister said investment in modern equipment, automation and advanced technologies could help organisations strengthen their competitiveness and create long-term economic value.
The importance of the funding has been highlighted by REECO Automation Ltd, which received a £100,000 SMART Innovation Support R&D Grant in 2025.
During a visit to the company, the Cabinet Secretary saw advanced robotics and automation being developed for industrial applications.
REECO Managing Director Rosie Davies said the funding had supported the development of new products and manufacturing innovations, including robotic palletising and humanoid robotics solutions.
She said the grant had helped the company accelerate innovation, develop new products and enter new markets.
The Welsh Government is now encouraging eligible organisations across the country to consider whether investment in new equipment or technology could help unlock their own plans for innovation and growth.
Applications for the latest funding round must be submitted by 11.59pm on September 25, 2026.
Funding decisions are expected from the week beginning October 26.
Full details of the scheme and application process are available through Business Wales.
