Scale in Wales: Invest, Locate, Innovate

What is this event?

Despite the challenging financial climate, Wales is resilient and has always punched above its weight. Throughout the last decade we’ve seen remarkable growth in industries such as fintech, insurtech, cyber, compound semiconductors, data, medtech, green tech and creative industries across Wales, and we don’t see that slowing down anytime soon.

With a thriving ecosystem, robust business support network, affordable living and an expanding economy, Wales is poised for success with fantastic transport links just 90 minutes from London, a strong 220k+ student talent pipeline, and 3.5k tech companies contributing £8.5 billion to the economy annually.

This exclusive event will spotlight why Wales is a prime destination to invest, locate and innovate. We will hear from key stakeholders plugged into the ecosystem as well as both national and international tech businesses who have successfully expanded or relocated to Wales. We will explore the support and funding available to tech businesses in Wales including the Soft-Landing Programme which helps international tech businesses 'soft-land' Wales.

Who is this event for? 

This event is perfect for:

1. Investors new to the Welsh Tech Ecosystem

2. International tech businesses looking to expand or relocate to the UK

Agenda:   

3.45pm - 4:00pm Arrival  

As this event takes place on the 23rd floor of The Shard, we kindly request all guests to plan accordingly. Doors will open promptly at 4pm to allow sufficient time for check-in.

4:15 pm - 4:25 pm - Welcome and Opening Remarks   

Tramshed Tech will provide a warm welcome before handing over to Lynsey Thompson, International Business Development Manager - Tech at Welsh Government who will provide an overview of Wales as a tech innovation hub and touch upon the support available for companies looking to expand/relocate.

4:25 pm - 5:15 pm - Panel Discussion & Q&A: ’Scale in Wales: Invest, locate, Innovate’   

This panel discussion is designed to provide valuable insights into the investment potential in Wales, advantages of locating or expanding your business here, and a look at the key catalysts driving Wales' impressive tech innovation surge.

• Eamon Tuhami, Dealmaker at the Global Entrepreneurs Programme, Department for Business and Trade (Chair)

• Sarah Kocianski, CEO at FinTech Wales

• Howard Rupprecht, Director at CSconnected

• Shabnam Wazed, Founder & CEO at AGAM International 

• John Cordrey, Principal at Foresight Group 

• Dr Clare Johnson, Founder of Women in Cyber Wales 

5:15pm - 5:25pm - Refreshment break  

5:25 pm - 5:45 pm Fireside Chat: ‘Locating in Wales: Experiences and Insights’  

We will be bringing together representatives from both national and international tech businesses that have successfully expanded or relocated to Wales. Hear from the founders directly as they share their experiences, perspectives, and proven strategies for thriving in the region's dynamic ecosystem. 

• Sophie Webber, Innovation and Partnerships Manager at Tramshed Tech

• Ammar Akhtar, Founder and CEO of Final Rentals

• Edoka Idoko, Founder and CEO of Pryme (previously OjirehPrime)

5:45 pm - 5:55 pm Closing Remarks  

Avril Lewis, MBE, Managing Director of Technology Connected will wrap up the event with key takeaways and a mention of upcoming initiatives such as Blockchain and Photonics, the Wales Technology Awards and Wales Tech Week 2025.

5:55 pm - 6:30 pm Networking and Refreshments