A Welsh business is developing a potentially revolutionary way of
managing diabetes after receiving funding from the world's
largest research collaboration programme.
Afon Technology Ltd is working on a world-first wearable
non-invasive blood glucose sensor, which measures levels in
real-time – eliminating the need for frequent and painful finger
pricking.
The Caldicot-based business received more than £2million in
funding from Horizon Europe – the EU's flagship £80 billion
research and innovation programme – to fast track the development
of its pioneering breakthrough.
Called Glucowear, the sensor is worn on the wrist and uses
ultra-low power microwave signals to monitor glucose levels.
Afon Technology Ltd is one of more than 20 businesses in Wales to
have benefited from the Horizon Europe scheme after the Welsh
Government lobbied for continued involvement post Brexit.
Sabih Chaudhry, the CEO of Afon Technology Ltd said:
“From our small office and laboratory in Wales, our skilled team
is pursuing the holy grail of glucose monitoring—a breakthrough
with the potential to change the world.
“The Horizon funding scheme has been instrumental in accelerating
the development of our groundbreaking technology. We were
thrilled to receive €2.4 million from the European Innovation
Council, allowing us to drive our innovation toward
commercialisation and, ultimately, improve the lives of those
living with diabetes.”
The Horizon Europe 2025 funding programme is now available online
and the Welsh Government is encouraging Wales-based researchers
and innovators to develop submissions for the programme, which is
being run by the European Commission until 2027.
Grant support is available to businesses to stimulate
participation in Horizon Europe via Agile Cymru.
Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Energy and Planning, said:
“Horizon Europe funding is pivotal for researchers, innovators,
and businesses in pushing the boundaries of science and tackling
critical challenges such as climate change, medical treatment,
and industrial competitiveness in new technologies.
“I urge organisations in Wales to take advantage of the UK's
Associate Country status under the programme in 2025 so that we
build on our reputation as a magnet for international
collaboration, investment and excellence.”
