SW-MAS, the organisation that aims to help manufacturing businesses in the South West “develop their capability to improve and grow”, is launching a new programme to further help SMEs across the region.

Called the Local Manufacturing Advisory Programme (L-MAP), the scheme will offer support tailored to a company’s specific needs — beginning with a free review to determine the key areas where support is needed.

A team of specialists will provide focused assistance, including “strategy mapping, business coaching and supply-chain engagement”.

There will also be funding available for consultancy and capital investment, as well as free workshops and events. Working with the six local Growth Hubs in the South West plus other regional and national support schemes, the programme will ensure that businesses receive the right help at the right time, with a brokered referral service.

Simon Howes, managing director of SW-MAS, said: “We are very pleased to be able to deliver this programme alongside the Growth Hubs. We have a long-standing relationship with manufacturers across the South West, and we are well placed to help them focus on productivity improvements and continued growth."

The programme is part-funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) and will be delivered by SW-MAS — to March 2019. It will support around 700 SMEs, creating more than 350 jobs in the South West and “unlocking £1.6 million of private investment”.