£1 million fund launched for SME manufacturers to accelerate digital transformation

Made Smarter, the Government-backed digital adoption programme, has launched a new £1 million funding round to support technology projects among SME manufacturers in Greater Manchester.

The funding aims to back dozens of SME manufacturers to invest in technologies like automation, 3D printing and AI to drive up their productivity and sustainability.

The initiative, first piloted in the North West in 2018, is offering match-funded grants of up to £20,000 to help SMEs adopt advanced technologies including robotics, automation, the Internet of Things (IoT), Artificial Intelligence (AI), and additive manufacturing.

The aim is to boost productivity, growth, resilience and sustainability: all key priorities for manufacturers navigating a rapidly evolving industrial landscape.

Donna Edwards, Programme Director for Made Smarter North West, said:

“We are now entering our seventh year of equipping North West manufacturers with the know-how and confidence to embrace the next industrial revolution. Through expert support and funding, we’re enabling businesses to unlock productivity, accelerate growth, decarbonise operations, and create high-value, future-ready jobs.

“The industrial landscape is evolving rapidly, and digital transformation is no longer optional. We encourage any manufacturer that hasn’t yet started their journey to take the first step.”

Since 2018 Made Smarter has funded 334 technology projects. These investments are forecast to increase the region’s GVA by £242 million in the coming years, create 1,300 new jobs and upskill 2,500 existing roles. Further information about this latest round of Made Smarter funding can be found via the programme’s website.