What is Lab by Transport for Wales?

We deliver innovation across Transport for Wales. Our 12-week accelerator programme has accelerated 18 start-ups into the rail industry. We help creative, ambitious start-ups pivot their existing solutions and ideas to improve customer experience and business efficiency across Transport for Wales.

We collaborate with start-ups to tackle problem statements and challenge areas across TfW. Our programme helps start-ups develop a fit for purpose MVP and get pitch ready in just 12 weeks.

Successful pitches will allow start-ups an opportunity to be awarded a contract of work with TfW, allowing them to develop and launch their solution to market.

Our lab is based in Newport’s Platform building. This is a dedicated innovation lab & co-working space for all start-ups and partners of TfWL to use. This is where all our workshops, training and coaching take place.

Our Goals

Lab by Transport for Wales has been created, in partnership with Transport for Wales, with following objectives;

Position Newport as a leading hub of innovation, product design and technology

Showcase the best of Welsh tech start-up talent
Help the most innovative tech start-ups grow their business and succeed
Improve physical and digital customer and passenger experience across Transport for Wales
Ensure the highest standard of health and safety across Transport for Wales for passengers & employees
Future-proof Transport for Wales by readying them for new and innovative technologies and solutions

Why has it been set up?

Transport for Wales has set out to make rail an attractive industry for tech start-ups. Lab by Transport For Wales will offer a range of opportunities & benefits, along with making entry to industry easier for start-ups.

Our innovation lab will change culture by transforming Newport into a hub of innovation, powering these initiatives and showcasing the tech community within Wales.

TfW wants to provide the best experience for passengers. TfW understand how critical it is for large corporates to innovate and adapt. To be reactive and proactive towards changes in consumer behaviour, and to over-deliver to provide exceptional customer experience.

TfWL aims to fill the gaps and to cultivate a culture of innovation across TfW by seeking out the most creative & ambitious start-ups to showcase their work.

If you have an innovative solution, or idea, we’d love to hear it and see if you can help Transport for Wales.

Our Team

Barry Lloyd

Michael Davies

Imran Anwar

Paul Suggitt

Russell Mills

Matt Lewis

Have an idea?

Along with our team, as part of the TfWL programme, successful applicants will have access to key stakeholders across Transport for Wales and their partners. If you have an innovative idea or product – we’d love to hear from you.