Made Smarter, a government-backed initiative aimed at boosting digital transformation and productivity in manufacturing, has recently announced a £1 million funding round for SME manufacturers in the North West region of the UK. The funding will be used to provide grants and expert support to help small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the manufacturing sector adopt digital technologies and processes.
The launch of the £1 million fund, which was announced at the recent Digital Manufacturing Week event in Liverpool, is part of Made Smarter’s ongoing efforts to drive digital adoption in the North West manufacturing sector. This move comes as the industry continues to face challenges such as increasing competition, rising costs, and the need to increase efficiency and productivity in order to remain globally competitive.
The funding will be available to SME manufacturers in the North West region, with the aim of helping them to invest in digital technologies and processes that will help to transform their operations and drive growth. This includes technologies such as robotics, artificial intelligence, 3D printing, and the Internet of Things (IoT), which have the potential to revolutionize the way manufacturers operate and create new opportunities for growth.
In addition to providing financial support, the fund will also offer expert guidance and support to help SMEs navigate the complex world of digital transformation. This will include access to specialist advice and mentoring, as well as workshops and events designed to help SMEs understand and implement the latest digital technologies.
Juergen Maier, Chair of Made Smarter and CEO of Siemens UK, believes that this funding round will have a significant impact on the North West manufacturing sector. He says, “This £1 million fund is a game-changer for SME manufacturers in the North West. By providing financial support and expert guidance, we aim to help these businesses unlock their full potential and become leaders in digital manufacturing.”
Maier also emphasizes the importance of digital transformation for the future of the manufacturing industry, stating, “Digital technologies have the power to transform the way manufacturers operate and create new opportunities for growth. By embracing these technologies, SMEs can become more agile, efficient, and competitive, and in turn, drive economic growth in the North West region.”
This sentiment is echoed by Siwan Smith, North West Growth Hub Manager at the Liverpool City Region Local Enterprise Partnership, who believes that the fund will have a positive impact on the region’s economy. She says, “Digital transformation is essential for the growth and sustainability of the manufacturing sector in the North West. This funding round will provide much-needed support to SMEs, helping them to harness the full potential of digital technologies and drive economic growth in the region.”
The launch of this £1 million fund by Made Smarter is a clear indication of the government’s commitment to supporting the growth of the UK manufacturing industry. It also highlights the importance of collaboration between the public and private sectors in driving digital transformation and economic growth.
SME manufacturers in the North West are encouraged to apply for the funding, which will be available until March 2020. This presents a valuable opportunity for businesses to invest in their future and embrace the digital revolution that is shaping the manufacturing industry.
In conclusion, the launch of the £1 million funding round by Made Smarter is a positive development for SME manufacturers in the North West region. With financial support and expert guidance, these businesses have the opportunity to transform their operations and drive growth through the adoption of digital technologies. This move not only benefits individual businesses but also has the potential to boost the entire economy of the region. The future of manufacturing in the North West looks brighter than ever, as Made Smarter continues to pave the way for a more digitally-driven and competitive industry.
