New funding supports SME manufacturers in North West

Made Smarter has launched a new £1million funding round to support technology projects among SME manufacturers in the North West.

The initiative from the Government-backed digital adoption programme, 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.

Made Smarter says the aim is to boost productivity, growth, resilience and sustainability – key priorities for manufacturers navigating a rapidly evolving industrial landscape.

Businesses who register to the programme gain access to a suite of support including fully funded technology advice, digital roadmap development, leadership and skills training, and student placement opportunities.

Made Smarter says Foams 4 Sports, a manufacturer of sports safety equipment based in Ashton-under-Lyne, is one of ‘hundreds of companies’ to have benefitted 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 said to be transformational, with productivity doubled, waste reduced, and the workforce gaining valuable new skills.

Ben Michael, General Manager at Foams 4 Sports said: “Digital transformation is vital for the next stage of our business growth,” said“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.”

Since 2018 Made Smarter has funded 334 technology projects. These investments are forecast to increase the North West region’s GVA by £242M in the coming years, create 1,300 new jobs and upskill 2,500 existing roles.

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.”