Competition aims to unlock next generation talent and tackle real-world business problems
A MAJOR new artificial intelligence competition designed to support emerging talent has been launched by Cardiff Capital Region during a high-profile Wales Week London reception.
The Venture AI Innovators Challenge was unveiled on Wednesday, February 25, as part of Wales Week London, bringing together political and business leaders to showcase Welsh innovation.
Delivered in partnership with Tramshed Tech, the initiative will support apprentices, graduates and early-career professionals who have taken part in CCR-funded skills programmes. Participants will be tasked with developing practical and ethical AI solutions to address genuine operational challenges faced by employers.
The competition will focus on key growth sectors including digital and data, advanced manufacturing, the creative industries and net zero projects.
The winning project will be fast-tracked into CCR’s AI Enable Programme, helping turn proof-of-concept ideas into scalable, deployable solutions. The prize package includes a £1,000 innovation voucher for the winner’s organisation to invest in software or training, £1,500 in career development mentoring for the winner, £250 in Amazon vouchers for the winner and £100 vouchers for two runners-up.
Kellie Beirne, Chief Executive of Cardiff Capital Region, said the challenge brings together “talent, technology and opportunity”.
“We know in South East Wales we have incredible emerging talent and this competition gives them the platform to apply AI in a practical, responsible way that delivers real value for businesses and communities,” she said.
“Launching this initiative during Wales Week London sends a clear message — CCR is serious about developing future-ready skills and positioning our region at the forefront of applied AI innovation on the UK and international stage.”
Participants will receive mentoring from industry experts, access to technical resources and the chance to pitch their ideas to a panel of employers, innovation leaders and investors.
Jack Mayers, Head of Skills at Tramshed Tech, said early-career professionals are central to the region’s future success.
“Our region’s greatest strength lies in the talent, curiosity and ambition of our people,” he said.
“The Venture AI Innovators Challenge provides a powerful platform for emerging professionals to apply their skills to real organisational challenges, showcase their ability to innovate and contribute meaningfully to the long-term competitiveness of our region from the very start of their careers.”
Also backing the initiative was Kanishka Narayan, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for AI and Online Safety and MP for the Vale of Glamorgan.
He said Wales is becoming “a real powerhouse for AI innovation”, pointing to the South Wales AI Growth Zone, which is expected to create thousands of jobs and attract significant investment.
“We’re determined to make the UK the fastest AI-adopting nation in the G7, and that means making sure people everywhere have the skills and support to benefit,” he said.
Applications for the Venture AI Innovators Challenge are set to open shortly, with the competition due to begin in early spring 2026. Further details are available via the Cardiff Capital Region website.
