Events by MediWales

The Life Science Finance & Investment Briefing is an essential gathering for entrepreneurs, CEOs, and financial directors looking to navigate the complex funding landscape of the biotech and medtech industries. Hosted in the heart of Cardiff, this MediWales event demystifies the various stages of capital raising—from seed funding and angel investment to venture capital and public grants. The briefing is designed to provide actionable intelligence on how to make a life science business "investment-ready." The program features a diverse lineup of speakers, including representatives from the Development Bank of Wales, private equity firms, and successful founders who have recently completed significant funding rounds. These experts will provide a deep dive into what investors are currently looking for in the Welsh life science sector, with a particular focus on intellectual property (IP) valuation and clinical validation milestones. Attendees will also learn about the various tax incentives and R&D grants available through both the Welsh and UK governments. A key highlight of the briefing is the "Investor Panel Q&A," where audience members can directly challenge a panel of funders on their investment criteria and current market sentiment. This is followed by an afternoon of "Speed-Dating for Investment," allowing selected start-ups to have five-minute introductory pitches with active investors in a low-pressure environment. For established firms, the briefing offers guidance on exit strategies, including mergers, acquisitions, and initial public offerings (IPOs). In a sector where the cost of research and development is high and the time to market is long, securing the right financial partner is crucial. This event provides the networking and knowledge necessary to fuel the next generation of Welsh life science success stories, ensuring that groundbreaking medical research has the financial backing to reach the patients who need it most.

The MedTech Manufacturing & Supply Chain Forum is a critical event for companies involved in the physical production and distribution of medical devices and laboratory equipment. In an era of global supply chain volatility, this MediWales forum focuses on strengthening the local manufacturing base in Wales and improving the resilience of the life sciences sector. The event serves as a conduit between raw material suppliers, specialist manufacturers, and the end-users in clinical settings. The forum addresses the technical challenges of medical-grade manufacturing, including cleanroom requirements, precision engineering, and the adoption of "Industry 4.0" technologies like 3D printing and automated assembly. Expert speakers will discuss the latest changes in the UK’s Medical Device Regulations (UKCA marking) and how manufacturers can ensure compliance while maintaining competitive lead times. Sustainability is also a core theme, with sessions dedicated to reducing the carbon footprint of medical manufacturing through biodegradable materials and circular supply chain models. A significant portion of the day is dedicated to structured B2B networking. MediWales facilitates pre-arranged meetings between procurement officers from major health boards and local Welsh manufacturers, providing a direct route to market for indigenous businesses. The exhibition hall will showcase the capabilities of Welsh precision engineering firms, specialized packaging providers, and logistics experts who understand the rigorous demands of transporting temperature-sensitive medical goods. By attending this forum, business owners and operations managers can gain a competitive edge by staying ahead of regulatory changes and identifying new local suppliers. It is a practical, results-oriented day designed to bolster the "Made in Wales" brand within the international medical technology market.

The Digital Health & Clinical AI Symposium, hosted by MediWales, is a specialized full-day conference dedicated to the rapidly evolving landscape of artificial intelligence and digital tools in modern medicine. As healthcare systems globally face increasing pressure, this event explores how Welsh-led digital innovations can streamline diagnostics, enhance patient monitoring, and optimize hospital management. The symposium brings together technical experts and clinical leads to bridge the gap between "code and clinic." The day is structured around a series of keynote presentations and interactive panel discussions. Leading data scientists and medical professionals will present case studies on the implementation of AI-driven diagnostic tools, particularly in the fields of radiology and pathology. Attendees will gain insights into the regulatory frameworks governing AI in healthcare, ensuring that innovation is balanced with patient safety and data privacy. A dedicated session will also focus on the "Internet of Medical Things" (IoMT) and how wearable devices are transforming chronic disease management across Wales. One of the unique features of this symposium is the "Tech Pitch" segment, where emerging digital health start-ups have the chance to present their solutions to a panel of NHS innovation leads and private investors. This provides a fast-track opportunity for new technologies to gain feedback and potential pilot sites within the Welsh health boards. The exhibition area will run concurrently with the talks, featuring live demonstrations of remote patient monitoring platforms and virtual reality training tools for surgeons. For professionals working in the intersection of technology and medicine, this symposium offers the latest intelligence on market trends and clinical requirements. It is a vital gathering for anyone involved in the digital transformation of the NHS, offering a clear roadmap for the future of integrated, data-led healthcare.

The MediWales Innovation Awards 2026 stand as the premier annual celebration for the life sciences and health technology sectors in Wales. This prestigious evening gala brings together over 300 key stakeholders, including industry leaders, NHS clinicians, academic researchers, and government officials, to honor the remarkable achievements and breakthroughs occurring within the Welsh ecosystem. The event is designed to showcase how collaboration between the private sector and the National Health Service can lead to transformative patient outcomes and economic growth. Throughout the evening, attendees will witness the presentation of awards across two primary categories: Industry Awards and Health Awards. The Industry category recognizes businesses—ranging from ambitious start-ups to established multinational corporations with a Welsh footprint—that have demonstrated excellence in innovation, export growth, and successful partnerships with the NHS. Conversely, the Health Awards celebrate NHS health boards and professionals who have pioneered new technologies or research initiatives that improve the quality of care and operational efficiency within the healthcare system. Beyond the formal ceremony, the Innovation Awards provide an unparalleled networking platform. Set within the sophisticated ambiance of one of Cardiff’s leading venues, the night begins with a drinks reception followed by a formal three-course dinner. This environment fosters high-level discussions and provides a unique opportunity for attendees to forge new strategic alliances. For many, the highlight of the night is the "Success Stories" segment, where previous winners share the trajectory of their innovations from initial concept to clinical implementation. As the life science sector continues to be a cornerstone of the Welsh economy, this event serves as a vital reminder of the talent and ingenuity residing in the region. Whether you are looking to gain visibility for your latest medical device, find a research partner, or simply connect with the movers and shakers of the industry, the MediWales Innovation Awards 2026 is an unmissable fixture in the professional calendar.

MediWales Connects is the flagship all-Wales NHS collaboration conference, specifically designed to bridge the gap between clinical practice, academic research, and industrial innovation. Hosted in the heart of Cardiff, this annual event serves as a vital platform for NHS colleagues, local life science companies, and the wider industry sector to converge and share clinical innovations aimed at improving patient outcomes across Wales. The 2026 edition focuses on the "Science of Adoption," addressing the critical challenges involved in scaling new products, digital health services, and medical processes within the NHS infrastructure. Attendees can expect a high-energy environment featuring keynote presentations from top-tier health officials, interactive workshops tailored to clinical needs, and a vibrant exhibition zone showcasing the latest medical technologies. A core objective of the conference is to raise the profile of clinical innovation in Wales on a UK-wide stage. By fostering closer working relationships between research groups and industry partners, MediWales Connects helps accelerate clinical trial capabilities and ensures that groundbreaking research transitions smoothly into frontline healthcare. Whether you are looking to find a research partner, showcase a new medical device, or understand the current priorities of the Welsh Health Boards, this event provides the essential networking opportunities to drive your projects forward.