Grant Funding for Advanced Technology Adoption
The initiative, which has been driving digital transformation in the region’s manufacturing sector since 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.
Boosting Productivity and Sustainability
The aim is to boost productivity, growth, resilience, and sustainability - key priorities for manufacturers navigating a rapidly evolving industrial landscape.
Additional Support for Registered Businesses
Businesses who register to the programme also gain access to a suite of support including fully funded technology advice, digital roadmap development, leadership and skills training, and student placement opportunities.
Real-World Success: Foams 4 Sports
Foams 4 Sports, a manufacturer of sports safety equipment based in Ashton-under-Lyne, is one of hundreds of companies to benefit from Made Smarter support. The firm, which supplies the NHS, martial arts clubs, prisons, schools, and outdoor venues, used its grant to automate a manual cutting process by investing in a digital CNC machine. The results were transformational: productivity doubled, waste was reduced, and the workforce gained valuable new skills.
Testimonial from Foams 4 Sports
“Digital transformation is vital for the next stage of our business growth,” said Ben Michael, General Manager at Foams 4 Sports. “We need to look to technology as a solution to our challenges. This is a massive leap forward. Made Smarter has been incredible - helping us build a clear roadmap, evaluate technology options, and prepare our team for change. The future is exciting for Foams 4 Sports.”
Impact of the Made Smarter Programme
Since 2018, Made Smarter has funded 334 technology projects. These investments are forecast to increase the region’s GVA by £242M in the coming years, create 1,300 new jobs and upskill 2,500 existing roles.
Looking Ahead: Embracing Digital Transformation
Donna Edwards, Programme Director for Made Smarter Northwest, said: “We are now entering our seventh year of equipping Northwest 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.”
