About the Cluster
Shaping the Future of Innovation in Torbay
The Torbay Hi-Tech Cluster is home to a growing network of technology companies working across photonics, electronics, software, clean energy and advanced manufacturing.
We bring together innovators, educators and investors to build a stronger, more connected regional tech economy in South Devon.
Founded by industry and supported by education and local government, the Cluster helps great ideas take shape, grow and stay in Torbay.
Our Mission and Vision
Our vision is to build a future for Technology within Torbay through engagement and development of partnerships with Government, Education and Industry to provide a growing sector for generations to come.
Our mission is to enable the completion of Torbay Technology Park through work with local government and the steering committee to a standard that meets the needs of the industries and cluster membership. To engage all high-tech sectors in Torbay and diversify sector involvement with the THTC. And to promote the THTC and develop further relationships with local and further educational institutions to ensure that the future roadmap of “Tech in the Bay” is realised through entrepreneurship and available skills to allow growth of the sectors as set out in the vision.
Our Story
The Cluster was created by industry leaders who saw the potential to bring Torbay’s advanced engineering community together under one banner.
For decades, this area has been home to world-class companies in photonics, electronics and precision manufacturing.
Working collectively with the Electronics and Photonics Innovation Centre (EPIC), South Devon College, and Torbay Council, we have turned those individual strengths into a shared story of innovation.
The THTC is here to act as a bridge between education and employment, research and application, local capability and global opportunity. It’s a collaboration built on trust, shared ambition and a belief in what this region can achieve.
What We Do
We focus on three core areas that strengthen both the companies and the community around them.
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Skills
We work closely with South Devon College, along with other local schools and Universities, to build a skills pipeline that gives young people clear routes into engineering and technology careers.
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Collaboration
Our members connect regularly to share capability, equipment and experience. This approach turns individual projects into joint opportunities and accelerates innovation across the region.
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Growth
We advocate for investment in facilities, funding and infrastructure that give companies based in Torbay and the surrounding area the space and visibility to expand.
Every initiative is designed to make it easier for businesses to focus on what they do best: solving problems, building products and developing new ideas.
Cluster Leadership
The Torbay Hi-Tech Cluster is chaired by Chris Wardle, an experienced engineering leader with a background in advanced manufacturing and environmental sensing.
As Chair, Chris focuses on three clear priorities:
- Creating space for companies to grow
- Raising the visibility of local innovation
- Building a practical skills pipeline from education to employment
“Torbay already has world-class engineering capability. Our job is to keep telling that story, to keep investing in people and to make sure every business here has room to thrive.”
Chris Wardle, Chair of the Torbay Hi-Tech Cluster
The Cluster operates through a steering partnership that includes South Devon College, EPIC and Torbay Council, alongside representatives from member companies across the region.
It is an industry-led model supported by education and civic partners who share the same ambition for growth.
Our Achievements
Since its formation, the Cluster has brought together local and national stakeholders to turn ambition into action.
In the past year, members have collaborated on research and development projects worth more than £3 million, hosted regional technology showcases and supported new education pathways that connect students with employers.
We have promoted Torbay’s capability on the national stage, shared facilities across member sites and provided a voice for local technology businesses in shaping regional policy and investment decisions.
These achievements are only the beginning. The strength of the cluster comes from its people and their willingness to work together.
Our Partners and Supporters
The Cluster works hand in hand with organisations that share our commitment to sustainable growth and skills development.
Supporting Network
A growing ecosystem of companies and universities contributing to innovation, outreach and collaboration across the South West.
Partnership is at the heart of everything we do. Every success story begins with people connecting to share ideas, facilities and vision.
Join the Cluster
If you are building technology in Torbay or South Devon, you are already part of something special.
Becoming a Cluster member means joining a community that believes in progress, collaboration and shared success.
Benefits of Membership
- Connect with leading companies and researchers in your field
- Access shared facilities and knowledge exchange opportunities
- Influence local skills initiatives and regional innovation strategy
Ready to get involved? Contact us today to join the Cluster, or explore partnership and sponsorship opportunities.