The SBRI Centre of Excellence is proud to highlight a remarkable success story from one of our former challenge awardees — NearMeNow, creators of the VZTA Smart Town platform. What began as an innovative response to our Better Lives Closer to Home Challenge has now evolved into a pioneering smart city solution making a real difference on the streets of Wrexham.
From Concept to City Centre
NearMeNow was one of several SMEs supported through the Better Lives Closer to Home Challenge, aimed at developing solutions to improve access to services, retail, and wellbeing opportunities within local communities. With SBRI funding, NearMeNow refined and piloted their VZTA Smart Town platform — a digital solution designed to give independent businesses and local organisations real-time visibility through integrated apps and digital infrastructure.
Today, that concept is powering a new initiative in Wrexham, where a network of digital screens across the city centre displays instant updates on offers, appointments, and promotions from local businesses. The technology allows independent traders to compete on a level playing field with larger retailers by providing a fast, flexible, and affordable way to reach local audiences.
A Model for Digital Town Transformation
This exciting project, delivered in partnership with Wrexham County Borough Council and funded by the Welsh Government’s Transforming Towns programme, builds on the VZTA Wrexham app launched in 2024. By integrating the VZTA platform with city centre digital screens, Wrexham has created a dynamic, digitally connected high street — and has positioned itself as a leader in smart place-making for towns and cities across Wales.
Supporting Welsh Innovation
At the SBRI Centre of Excellence, we are passionate about connecting public sector challenges with innovative businesses. This success story is a powerful example of how the SBRI model can stimulate homegrown innovation, tackle real-world issues, and deliver meaningful outcomes for communities.
Learn More
The VZTA Wrexham project is a clear testament to the value of SBRI in developing ideas, enabling pilot projects, and helping local authorities embrace new solutions.
To read more about the Wrexham initiative, visit the original news story here.
