jyh
The world's first compound semiconductor cluster
CSconnected is the collective brand for the South Wales compound semiconductor cluster, a globally recognised centre for research, innovation and advanced manufacturing.
The cluster brings together:
- Research-intensive universities
- Specialist prototyping and innovation facilities
- Materials and wafer fabrication capability
- Advanced packaging and integration expertise
- High-volume, global manufacturing operations
Together, these partners form a fully integrated supply chain spanning design, fabrication, packaging, integration and end-market systems.
South Wales is one of the few locations worldwide with this breadth of capability concentrated in a single region.
A key enabling technology for the UK
Compound semiconductors are a strategic technology underpinning sectors such as:
- Clean energy and electrification
- 5G and advanced communications
- Autonomous and electric vehicles
- Aerospace and defence
- Medical and sensing technologies
By strengthening regional capability in this field, CSconnected supports UK technological resilience, global competitiveness and long-term economic growth.
Backed by UK Research and Innovation
In 2020, CSconnected secured funding through UK Research and Innovation’s Strength in Places Fund (SIPF).
The programme, valued at £43 million, including £25 million from UKRI, has accelerated research translation, manufacturing capability and supply chain development across South Wales.
The programme builds on Wales’ established industrial base and integrates research excellence with advanced manufacturing at scale.
A growing cluster
The compound semiconductor cluster in South Wales supports:
- 2,748 total jobs
- £366 million GVA contribution
- £507 million in total sales
Source: Annual Report: Compound Semiconductor Cluster in South Wales 2024, Welsh Economy Research Unit.
Employment in the sector continues to grow, with increasing demand for engineers, technicians, researchers and supply chain specialists.
CSconnected Cluster in numbers
2,748
Total Employment
£366M
GVA contribution
£507M
Total Sales
Collaboration at the core
Collaboration is central to CSconnected.
Industry, academia and government work together to:
- Accelerate innovation
- Develop new manufacturing capability
- Strengthen the regional supply chain
- Support skills and workforce development
This coordinated approach has enabled sustained growth and long-term strategic investment in South Wales.