Bosch to open hydrogen HQ to Stockport SMEs

Businesses in Stockport are to have the chance to visit Bosch’s hydrogen HQ in Germany as part of a new challenge to help UK businesses break into the hydrogen market.

The Hydrogen Supply Chain Innovation Challenge is being delivered by GM Business Growth Hub with Bosch and Manchester Metropolitan University and will see 10 Greater Manchester SMEs make the trip to Germany in January 2026 to learn from the Bosch team.

The challenge builds on Greater Manchester’s ambition to reach net zero by 2038 and to position itself as a leader in hydrogen technology. The region’s international partnership with Germany’s Ruhr area has also helped pave the way for the collaboration with Bosch. Greater Manchester is also home to Manchester Met’s Fuel Cell Innovation Centre (pictured), which is at the forefront of hydrogen and fuel cell technology.

Bosch, one of the world’s largest engineering and technology companies, is investing heavily in hydrogen and is ranked among Europe’s top ten for hydrogen production patents.

Eman Martin-Vignerte, Director of External Affairs, Governmental and Political Relations at Bosch, said:

“By opening up our facilities, we want Greater Manchester businesses to see how hydrogen is applied in the real world, from production to automotive systems.

“This challenge is about sharing that experience so local companies can identify where they fit, develop their capabilities, and bring hydrogen solutions to market in the UK.”

Throughout the challenge, the Bosch team will be sharing their expertise on how hydrogen systems are developed and tested, which could lead to opportunities to work with them or others in the sector. The insights will also help local firms compete for UK hydrogen production tenders.

Companies will take part in a site visit to Bosch Germany in January 2026, as well as getting involved in workshops and development sessions. The Challenge will run until March 2026 with on-going support provided after this date.

Alongside the Bosch visit, participants will receive mentoring and commercial support from the Hub, and opportunities to connect with a network of industry leaders.

Janine Smith, Director at GM Business Growth Hub, said:

“Manchester was the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution and now, across Greater Manchester, we’re once again driving the next wave of change – this time through clean energy. 

“This challenge gives our firms a front-row seat with Bosch, one of the global leaders in hydrogen technology, and the opportunity to help shape the supply chains of the future.”

The announcement comes as the Greater Manchester Combined Authority, working with Manchester Metropolitan University, launches a consultation on a new hydrogen and fuel cell strategy.

Amer Gaffar, Director of Industrial Strategy Partnerships at Manchester Metropolitan University, said:

“Greater Manchester has set ambitious goals on hydrogen, and we’ve been central to shaping that strategy.

“What excites me is that this isn’t about distant promises – it’s about creating realistic, tangible opportunities now. With support from Bosch, local firms can help make the city-region a genuine hydrogen hub and lead the UK’s clean tech future.”

Applications are now open via the Challenge’s website. Businesses will need to complete an application form outlining their capabilities, their appetite to pivot into hydrogen, and where they see themselves in the supply chain.

Expressions of interest close on 23 October, with successful participants announced in November.