Blaenau Gwent Tech Valleys

Advanced Manufacturing 

Motor and battery technology, artificial intelligence and infrastructure for ultra-low emission vehicles are key areas that the area is looking to grow.

Automotive and Electric Vehicles 

The automotive sector is considerable and there is Regional scope to capitalise on existing skills needed for future-proofing the sector and expansion into growing areas of the automotive sector, including the manufacturing and testing of electric vehicles. 

Technology and Telecoms 

Technology is a key growth area for Blaenau Gwent, supported by the Tech Valleys programme. There is an emerging cluster of technology businesses, with most looking at how investment in automation and technology can help them to thrive. 

Food and Drink manufacturing 

The food and drink sector accounts for around 5.5% of Blaenau Gwent’s GVA. Tech Valleys, supported by the Welsh Government’s Food and Drink Wales team, will identify opportunities for growth and removing barriers to investment and expansion. 

Pharmaceuticals and Medical Technology 

A cluster of high performing businesses operate in the region with an above average number of medical qualifiers from local higher education institutions, including two of the UK’s top medical schools at Swansea and Cardiff Universities.

Additive Manufacturing

Alongside traditional manufacturing we are now experiencing early growth of the Additive Manufacturing sector in the area. Additive manufacturing creates a 3D object by building it a layer at a time. Using Computer Aided Design (CAD) or 3D object scanners, additive manufacturing allows for the creation of objects with precise geometric shapes and very little wastage. Additive manufacturing is ideal for rapid prototyping and will complement our other sectors targeting growth and innovation.