Businesses and organisations across Wales can now apply for grants of between £50,000 and £250,000 to invest in machinery, equipment and technology.
Applications have opened for the latest round of the SMART Flexible Innovation Support Capital Equipment Fund, which aims to improve productivity, strengthen competitiveness and support long-term growth.
The funding is available to businesses, universities, research organisations, further education colleges, third sector organisations and NHS Health Boards operating in Wales.
Successful applicants will need to demonstrate how their proposed investment will improve productivity and create wider benefits for Wales.
The fund can support the purchase and installation of machinery and equipment that helps organisations improve their performance and remain competitive.
Projects that reuse materials and make more effective use of resources are also being encouraged.
Since 2023, SMART Flexible Innovation Support has awarded more than £20.1 million in grants to 171 organisations across Wales.
The programme has supported the development of new products, services and working practices, while helping recipients improve productivity and explore opportunities for growth.
It has also encouraged collaboration between businesses, universities and public sector bodies, helping organisations turn new ideas into practical benefits for Wales.
During a visit to REECO Automation Ltd, the Cabinet Minister for Enterprise, Connectivity and Energy saw the advanced robotics and automation technologies being developed by the company.
REECO received a £100,000 SMART Innovation Support R&D Grant in 2025.
Cabinet Minister for Enterprise, Connectivity and Energy:
“Wales has no shortage of great ideas, talent and ambition, and we are proud to support organisations to innovate, grow and succeed.
“Innovation is vital to driving productivity and helping us to achieve our wider ambition of closing the productivity gap with the rest of the UK.
“By supporting investment in modern equipment, automation and advanced technologies, this fund will help organisations increase productivity, strengthen competitiveness and create long-term economic value for Wales.”
“I encourage eligible organisations to explore the fund and consider applying for this valuable support.”
Rosie Davies, Managing Director at REECO said:
“REECO has benefited greatly from an SFIS Innovation Grant from the Welsh Government.
“The funding has supported the development of several new products and manufacturing innovations, including our agnostic robotic palletiser and humanoid robotics solutions for industrial applications.
“The grant has given REECO an added incentive to accelerate innovation, develop new products and enter new markets.
“We would recommend that organisations explore this capital equipment funding opportunity to help unlock their innovation plans and drive business growth.”
Applications will remain open until 23:59 on 25 September 2026.
Further information and application details are available through the Business Wales website.
Funding decisions are expected from the week commencing 26 October 2026.
