Hundreds of manufacturers across the North West are preparing to accelerate their digital transformation after the Government confirmed new funding for the Made Smarter programme from April. The £2.5M investment aims to provide SME manufacturers with expert technology advice, leadership training, digital skills development, and match-funded grants to enhance productivity, drive innovation, create high-value jobs, and reduce carbon emissions.
The programme builds on seven years of impact in the region, having already helped manufacturers modernise operations, adopt advanced technologies, and develop the skills needed to compete in a digital economy. Since its launch in 2019, Made Smarter North West has supported over 2,400 manufacturers, developed 550 digital roadmaps, delivered 250 leadership and digital champions training sessions, and placed 85 digital interns into businesses.
Over this period, manufacturers have secured more than £8.1M in matched funding, unlocking over £28.3M in technology investments, including AI, ERP systems, robotics, automation, and additive manufacturing. These investments have driven the creation of more than 1,900 jobs, upskilled nearly 3,500 roles, and contributed £287M to the North West economy.
Donna Edwards, Director of Made Smarter’s North West adoption programme, highlighted the programme’s transformative impact on SME manufacturers. She noted that the new funding will allow the programme to reach more businesses, helping them plan investments, adopt the right technologies, and develop skills to grow, unlock opportunities, and enhance long-term competitiveness.
Liverpool-based D Squared Product Development has benefited from a grant to invest in a Formlabs Form 4 3D printer and xTool P2S laser cutter. Technical Director Daniel Isler said the support has enabled the company to deploy new technologies more quickly, implement cloud-based collaboration tools, IoT-enabled process tracking, and integrated fire safety features. These improvements are expected to boost productivity, protect and create skilled jobs, and maintain competitiveness nationally and internationally.
Made Smarter provides manufacturers with a practical path to digital transformation. Businesses start with an expert assessment to identify technology and skills priorities, followed by a tailored digital roadmap to guide investment and implementation. Leadership programmes, workforce training, and digital internships help companies build the capabilities needed to adopt new technologies and embed change across their organisations. Eligible businesses can also access grants of up to £20,000 for technology projects.
