Knowledge Exchange Wales (KEW) is the first and only Welsh business network to be a member of the internationally renowned Global Connect world-wide business innovation and investment network, and the first to unite north and south Wales, with the aim of putting Welsh industry and academia on the map.

Ceri Jones, Deputy Director of the Department of Research and Innovation in Swansea University, first had the idea of creating the network whilst researching the success of Global Connect. He said:

“Global Connect is a highly successful business network model that started in San Diego, when a group of leaders and champions with research and development interests realised that in order to complete globally they would have to collaborate locally.

“We can compare Wales with this model as we are a small country, but we have valuable expertise that I believe we can share more effectively nationally, and internationally.

“KEW will strive to unite academics and leading businesses and organisations in Wales, boosting the local economy and allowing Wales to trade on a global scale”

Working closely with a team based in Bangor University to ensure coverage of the network extends across the length of Wales, and offers a comprehensive package of skills and expertise to business, KEW became a reality when it was awarded funds to run by the Welsh Assembly Government’s Academia for Business scheme.

Ceri continued, “We know that we have the skills in the two universities to help businesses develop, progress and compete globally, and we want to grow the Welsh economy.

“Our aims are high.  We hope that KEW will become the biggest business network in Wales.  And by extending membership to other universities and other higher education institutions, we hope to eventually unite most of the academic skills in Wales.

“KEW will offer businesses accelerated access to university business services, interaction with innovation focused companies, access to global development and networking opportunities, and opportunities to meet with specialist academic experts. 

“The benefits to business are far reaching – there will be the chance to achieve business goals through research and development collaborations, apply for investment and funding opportunities accessed only through partnership with universities, get help with commercialisation of ideas and Intellectual Property, and access highly skilled graduates.

“KEW will allow businesses to call the shots.  We intend to nurture a responsive and demand driven culture, which will start at our launch event in February 2010.”
Swansea University and Bangor University together have many of the key expertise needed by businesses, and have impressive track records of collaboration with industry. The KEW network is open to all businesses with an interest in developing their business and driving forward the Knowledge Economy in Wales.

A launch event is planned for the 23rd February 2010, which will have presence from both the Welsh Assembly Government, Welsh industry and both participating universities.  If you are interested in attending, please contact 01792 606060 or visit www.kewales.com.

DOWNLOAD the KEW introduction leaflet here: KEW leaflet