A life sciences company, Biofortuna, has unveiled a new robotic system aimed at enhancing diagnostic technologies and boosting the economy. Based in Deeside, north Wales, the company has developed the BeadBot system with funding of £225,000 from the Welsh Government’s SMART Flexible Innovation Support (SFIS) scheme. This innovation automates the production of lyophilised (freeze-dried) reagent beads, which are essential in diagnostic devices that test for conditions like cancer.
Rebecca Evans, the cabinet secretary for economy, energy, and planning, emphasized the importance of innovation in improving lives across Wales. She stated, “We are committed to fostering a culture of innovation which will improve the lives of people across Wales. This includes building a Welsh economy based on the industries and services of the future.” Evans highlighted that the BeadBot system would significantly boost productivity, enabling Biofortuna to capture a larger share of the rapidly expanding global market for diagnostic technologies.
The BeadBot system addresses existing bottlenecks in Biofortuna’s production process by automating a complex packing stage that was previously performed by qualified scientists. This automation is expected to enhance productivity and streamline manufacturing, allowing the company to meet increasing demands in the diagnostic sector. Biofortuna has acknowledged that support from the Welsh Government was pivotal in bringing this robotic system to fruition.
Dr. Nick Leaves, chief operating officer at Biofortuna, remarked on the impact of government support, stating, “The Welsh Government’s SFIS support will help us significantly increase our manufacturing capacity, accelerating market penetration in a rapidly growing and essential segment of the diagnostics market. This is a great example of what can be achieved when Government and Industry work together.”
The funding for Biofortuna is part of a broader £20 million programme launched in March 2023 by the Welsh Government to foster research and innovation addressing societal and environmental challenges. To date, £17.9 million has been allocated to various companies through this initiative, supporting the development of new research and development solutions.
Biofortuna has already secured £4.7 million in export contracts with assistance from Welsh Government programmes, and the company anticipates that the introduction of BeadBot will further drive international growth. The company is one of 140 projects to receive support from the SMART innovation funding scheme, reflecting the Welsh Government’s commitment to enhancing the life sciences and advanced manufacturing sectors in the region.
As Biofortuna moves forward with the BeadBot system, it not only aims to strengthen its market position but also to contribute to job creation and economic growth in Wales, reinforcing the region’s reputation for excellence in innovative technologies.
