CSconnected sets out new framework for member engagement
15th January 2026
CSconnected has set out a membership framework to support the continuation of cluster activity following the conclusion of the UKRI’s Strength in Places Fund (SIPF), providing a mechanism for companies and organisations across the ecosystem to engage with the compound semiconductor cluster beyond the lifetime of the programme.
Over the past decade, CSconnected has played a central role in establishing South Wales as a globally recognised location for compound semiconductor activities. The cluster supports around 3,000 highly skilled jobs, contributes more than £350 million in GVA to the regional economy, and generates over £500 million in annual sales, with more than 90 per cent of output exported. Growth has been underpinned by sustained public and private investment, alongside close collaboration between industry, academia and government.
Through SIPF and related programmes, CSconnected has coordinated activity across skills, research, supply chains, promotion and inward investment, helping to strengthen local value capture and support high-quality employment across the region. As SIPF funding comes to an end, the membership framework provides a practical route to sustain this activity and to broaden engagement with organisations operating across the compound semiconductor ecosystem.
According to Howard Rupprecht, Managing Director of CSconnected, the framework is focused on continuity and long-term impact rather than a change in direction.
“SIPF has enabled us to build a strong cluster with real economic impact, supported by effective collaboration between industry, education and government. The membership framework allows us to carry that work forward beyond the lifetime of the programme, while opening up clearer routes for organisations to engage with and contribute to the cluster.”
The framework sets out different membership routes reflecting the diversity of the ecosystem. Connected Members are organisations based in and around South Wales with direct involvement in the compound semiconductor sector, while Network Members provide a route for engagement by companies operating elsewhere in the UK or internationally. Service Sponsors support the cluster through specialist services aligned with sector activity.
Core Membership is reserved for organisations that have demonstrated sustained engagement with CSconnected activity. Core Members are able to participate directly in advisory and working groups, contributing to discussions around skills priorities, research collaboration, supply-chain development and policy engagement.
Skills and talent development remain a central focus of CSconnected’s work, reflecting the sector’s need for a growing workforce across vocational, technical and advanced roles. The membership framework supports continued coordination between employers and education providers through established mechanisms, including engagement with Further and Higher Education partners.
Dr Hazel Hung, Business Development Manager at CSconnected, said the membership framework provides a clearer and more consistent route for companies to engage with the cluster and with each other.
“The membership framework helps us work more effectively with companies across the supply chain, from manufacturers and technology developers to specialist service providers. It creates clearer points of connection, supports collaboration, and makes it easier for organisations to understand how they can engage with the cluster and the opportunities it offers.”
The membership framework is designed to operate alongside multiple funding sources and future programmes, reinforcing CSconnected’s role as a long-term, not-for-profit organisation focused on growing the cluster, increasing local value capture and supporting high-quality employment across South Wales and beyond.
Further information on membership is available at: https://csconnected.com/membership/
Notes to editors:
Contact
camillecolombier@csconnected.com
About CSconnected
CSconnected is the world’s first compound semiconductor cluster, located in South Wales. Supported by the Strength in Places Fund (UK Research and Innovation) and Cardiff Capital Region, the cluster unites leading companies, research institutions, and government partners to drive innovation, economic growth, and global leadership in semiconductor technology.
