Pic: Manufacturers across the North West have secured funding for advanced manufacturing technology North West SME manufacturers are investing £1.9 million in digital technologies to boost productivity, create jobs and accelerate growth, with support from
Made Smarter.
Thirty manufacturers across the UK region have secured a combined £604,000 of funding through the Government-backed technology adoption programme.
Among them are businesses producing everything from bacon, beer and skincare products to sofas, playground equipment, workwear and furniture. Others manufacture specialist products including lithium battery materials, electrical equipment, and industrial machinery and advanced engineering components.
The latest tranche of projects includes investments in automation and robotics, digital inventory systems, production monitoring, cloud-based platforms and advanced manufacturing technologies. Collectively, they are forecast to create over 90 new jobs and upskill over 170 existing workers.
Together, the manufacturers are investing £1.9 million in new equipment, software and systems designed to improve efficiency, increase capacity, strengthen competitiveness and support long-term growth expected to exceed £16.4 million.
The investment demonstrates resilience at a time when manufacturers continue to navigate rising costs, skills shortages and global supply chain uncertainty. Rather than standing still, these SMEs are investing in technologies that will improve productivity, unlock capacity and build resilience.
With further funding available, eligible manufacturers looking to adopt digital technologies are encouraged to register with Made Smarter North West and explore the support on offer.
Donna Edwards, programme director of Made Smarter North West, said: “These projects represent more than £1.9 million of investment in the future of North West manufacturing. Behind every one is a business making a deliberate decision to innovate, grow and become more competitive.
“What is particularly encouraging is that manufacturers are continuing to invest despite ongoing economic pressures. They recognise that digital technologies are no longer a nice-to-have, they are essential to improving productivity, building resilience and creating the skilled jobs that will drive future growth.
“Made Smarter’s continued success is built on combining expert advice with practical support that gives businesses the confidence to take those next steps. By helping manufacturers identify the right technologies and access funding to accelerate adoption, we are enabling more businesses to unlock growth opportunities and build stronger, more sustainable futures.”
As well as grant funding, Made Smarter offers SME manufacturers a range of support, including digital transformation workshops, impartial technology advice, leadership and skills training, and a digital internship programme.
To learn more about how Made Smarter can help your business innovate and grow, visit
www.madesmarter.uk