Three agri-businesses are transforming their futures thanks to a major boost from the UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund, unlocking expert support from Hartpury Tech Box Park (Digital Innovation Farm) to scale up, innovate and grow in the rural sector.
As part of Hartpury University and College’s mission to drive innovation in rural enterprise, these farms and individuals have benefitted from fully funded mentoring, business planning and industry networking opportunities through a programme funded by Monmouthshire County Council.
Brookes Wye Valley Dairy Co, a farm with over 50 years of heritage, has long been known for its high-quality dairy products, including award-winning ice cream and artisan cheeses. With support from Hartpury’s Tech Box Park, owner Hannah Brookes accessed expert mentoring and market insights to refine her business strategy and future-proof the farm for the next generation.
Hannah said: “The biggest takeaway for me was the importance of stepping back from the day-to-day and looking at the bigger picture. Hartpury’s expertise helped us focus on long-term sustainability and marketing - ensuring we build a strong future for our family business.”
(Above: Hannah Brookes)
Monmouthshire-based Sugarloaf Lamb, founded by Ed Fletcher, delivers high-quality, locally sourced lamb directly to consumers across the UK. With Tech Box Park support, the business overhauled its online presence, integrated accounting software and improved customer engagement.
Ed said: “Before joining the programme, our website was basic and inefficient. With Hartpury’s support, we now have a fully revamped site and a streamlined ordering process - making our business more efficient and accessible.”
(Above: Ed Fletcher)
Richard Hildersley, founder of Ethos Industrial, has spent his career helping businesses reduce emissions and optimise energy use. Through the Hartpury Tech Box Park, he received valuable industry insights, mentoring and business support to apply his expertise to the agricultural sector. The funding enabled him to pilot the ‘Hartpury Energy & Carbon Technical Assessment’ project, identifying energy-saving opportunities on farms.
Richard said: “The one-on-one mentoring provided unique insight into agriculture, helping me navigate the sector and connect with key stakeholders. This collaboration has been instrumental in demonstrating how green technology can enhance farm productivity and sustainability.”
(Above: Richard Hildersley)
Over the past twelve months, many businesses have benefited from fully funded specialist agriculture market insight, product development and supply chain advice, networking and partnership opportunities, access to grant funding, leadership training and collaboration on research and on-farm trials. They also enjoyed exclusive access to member resources and subject-specific events - helping them stay at the forefront of industry innovation.
Catherine Briggs, Tech Box Park Centre Manager commented: "We’re helping businesses turn ideas into reality, giving them the insight, support and connections they need to innovate and grow in the rural sector."
To book a tour of the facility, or to find out more click here or email Catherine Briggs – catherine.briggs@hartpury.ac.uk
