Innovate UK is seeking innovative solutions to support a "good life" for animals in Wales, demonstrating measurable impact on animal wellbeing.
Category
Awards, Prizes, and Challenges
Background
The Welsh Government’s Animal Health and Welfare Framework aims to provide all animals in Wales with a good quality life and ensure consumer confidence in food production practices. The challenge seeks to go beyond biological function assessments and address the mental wellbeing of animals to provide them with a “good life” above the regulatory baseline.
Scope
Innovative solutions could:
- Identify the welfare challenges of sheep and beef farms across different geographical locations in Wales.
- Develop practical, measurable methods to improve animal welfare using the ‘Good Life Framework’ model.
- Define strategies for implementing positive welfare solutions above regulatory standards, such as housing, shelter, and training for farm personnel.
- Utilise technology to create an interactive platform for recording and sharing welfare solutions.
Out of Scope: Projects not demonstrating engagement with the Welsh farming sector or failing to consider the practicality, affordability, and potential side effects of their proposals.
Funding Information
The challenge fund of £250,000 will support up to 5 feasibility projects, each with a value of up to £50,000 (inclusive of VAT). Projects successful in Phase 1 will be eligible to apply for subsequent phases.
Eligible Projects
Projects must demonstrate affordability, scalability, and targeted engagement with the Welsh farming sector. Collaborations are encouraged, and academic partners are welcome for independent evaluation and scientific testing.
Who Can Apply?
Any organisation can apply, with SBRI opportunities particularly attractive for SMEs. Projects should demonstrate engagement with the Welsh farming sector, with a named farm ideally included as a subcontractor.
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