The Made Smarter initiative has reached a groundbreaking milestone by investing £25 million in North West technology.
- This government-funded program has supported 23 additional businesses in digital transformation.
- A total of 330 companies have adopted cutting-edge technologies with over £7.1 million in matched funding.
- Projected economic benefits include the creation of 1,700 jobs and upskilling of 3,200 roles.
- The initiative is expected to contribute £267 million to the regional economy in the coming years.
The Made Smarter program, a critical initiative for digital transformation, has achieved a remarkable milestone by investing £25 million in North West technology ventures. This program, which is backed by both government and industry, has now extended its support to an additional 23 businesses, solidifying its role in fostering technological advancement in the region.
Among the recent beneficiaries are notable companies like Edinburgh Weavers, a prestigious textile manufacturer from Bolton, Duo UK, a packaging product manufacturer based in Manchester, and Trekk Vans, known for its campervan conversions in Carlisle. These enterprises have each received grants amounting to £20,000 to enhance their technological capabilities.
Over the past six years, the initiative has enabled 330 businesses to secure £7.1 million in matched funding, facilitating the adoption of diverse technologies such as sensors, robotics, 3D printing, and artificial intelligence (AI). This collaborative financial strategy has seen businesses contribute a significant £18 million in private sector investment across 379 technology projects.
The economic impact of these investments is significant, with expectations to generate over 1,700 new jobs and upskill approximately 3,200 existing positions, averaging nearly ten developments per participating business. The Made Smarter initiative exemplifies a proactive approach in modernizing industries and enhancing productivity.
Furthermore, projections suggest that these technological enhancements will inject a substantial £267 million into the local economy over a span of three years, underscoring the program’s potential to transform the regional industrial landscape.
Prominent recipients in this funding phase include J. J. Smith & Co., a Liverpool-based woodworking machinery manufacturer; C-TEC from Wigan, specializing in life-safety electronics; BrickByBrick23 in Glossop, creating personalized photo blocks with LEGO® bricks; and other innovative enterprises across the region. These projects reflect the diversity and dynamism of industries engaged with the Made Smarter initiative.
The Made Smarter initiative continues to drive technological progress and economic growth in the North West.
