A life sciences company based in Deeside, north Wales, has unveiled an innovative robotic system designed to enhance diagnostic technologies. Biofortuna’s new BeadBot system, developed with £225,000 in funding from the Welsh Government’s SMART Flexible Innovation Support (SFIS) scheme, aims to automate the production of lyophilised (freeze-dried) reagent beads. These beads are essential for diagnostic devices that test for various conditions, including cancer.
Rebecca Evans, the Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Energy, and Planning, emphasized the Welsh Government’s commitment to fostering innovation. “We are dedicated to improving the lives of people across Wales. This includes building a Welsh economy based on the industries and services of the future,” she stated. Evans highlighted that Biofortuna’s advancement will significantly boost productivity, allowing the company to increase its share in a rapidly expanding global market. This initiative is expected to protect existing skilled jobs while creating new employment opportunities.
The BeadBot system addresses production challenges, particularly a complex packing stage that currently requires qualified scientists. By automating this process, Biofortuna anticipates a significant increase in productivity and streamlined manufacturing, enabling the company to meet the growing demand for lyophilised reagent beads.
Dr. Nick Leaves, Chief Operating Officer at Biofortuna, credited the Welsh Government’s support for bringing the robotic system to fruition. “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,” he remarked. “This is a great example of what can be achieved when government and industry work together.”
This funding initiative is part of a broader £20 million program launched by the Welsh Government in 2023, aimed at supporting research and innovation to tackle societal and environmental challenges. So far, £17.9 million has been allocated to various companies, including Biofortuna, to develop and deliver new research and development solutions.
In addition to the SFIS funding, Biofortuna has secured £4.7 million in export contracts with assistance from Welsh Government programs. The company anticipates that the BeadBot system will further propel its international growth.
Biofortuna is among 140 projects that have benefited from SMART innovation funding, showcasing the potential of public and private sector collaboration in advancing technology and enhancing economic prospects in Wales. The introduction of the BeadBot not only represents a step forward in diagnostic technology but also reinforces Wales’ reputation for excellence in the life sciences and advanced manufacturing sectors.
