Events
We deliver a series of events focused on topics around innovation throughout the academic year.
From interactive workshop sessions to inspiring talks, these events create valuable opportunities to bring like-minded people together to discuss ideas and make valuable, mutually beneficial connections, which often lead to collaboration.
Previous events
The Innovation Exchange
The Innovation Exchange was an exclusive event for Cardiff Innovations, Cardiff Medicentre and sbarc|spark external residents, which brought together businesses, researchers and innovation partners to explore collaboration opportunities across Cardiff University’s innovation ecosystem.
Through expert talks, a funding panel and interactive discussions, attendees gained insights into innovation support, knowledge exchange and routes to funding.
The event highlighted opportunities to work with Cardiff University, access expertise and build new partnerships.
Why Wales: Place-Based Investment & Regional Growth
Delivered in partnership with the Whitehall and Industry Group (WIG), this hybrid event explored why Wales is an increasingly attractive location for investment, innovation and long-term growth. Leaders from business, government and academia shared perspectives on the role of collaboration, digital infrastructure and research-led innovation in driving economic development.
Discussions highlighted the importance of strong partnerships between universities, industry and government, alongside emerging opportunities in areas such as AI, advanced manufacturing, renewable energy and digital connectivity. The event concluded with networking opportunities that helped strengthen connections across sectors.
Innovation Funding Sandpit
Co-hosted with the Neuroscience and Mental Health Innovation Institute, the Innovation Funding Sandpit was an interactive workshop designed to help businesses and researchers develop collaborative project ideas and explore funding opportunities.
Participants worked together to address innovation challenges, refine project concepts and learn from funding and innovation specialists. By bringing together expertise from different sectors, the event supported the development of new partnerships and helped attendees take the first steps towards future collaborative funding bids.
Find out how to join the Innovation Network