Scottish Enterprise has welcomed the launch by Economy Secretary Derek Mackay of the Advancing Manufacturing Challenge Fund (AMCF), which is designed to support SMEs in Scotland and enhance their manufacturing capabilities.

Academic institutions, public bodies and third-sector organisations have been encouraged to apply to the fund, which aims to have a significant impact on SMEs and lead to long-term transformational change.

Funding will be awarded on a competitive basis to public-sector organisations that can help Scottish SMEs to identify solutions to common challenges, take advantage of growth opportunities, and build their capacity for innovation and collaboration.

Scottish Enterprise sector director David Smith said: “Business growth and innovation are inextricably linked, so it’s a key priority for Scottish Enterprise to support companies in order for them to fully unlock their potential (www.scottish-enterprise.com).

“Scottish Enterprise is excited to be a lead partner on the AMCF — a programme that will deliver widespread benefits across Scotland.

“If you are a public-sector organisation and you can offer support that enables innovative Scottish SMEs to move forward on their manufacturing journey, then AMCF is the programme for you.”