Lancashire manufacturers set for £2.5m digital leap forward

Hundreds of manufacturers across Lancashire are set to accelerate their digital transformation after the Government confirmed fresh funding for the Made Smarter programme from April.

The £2.5m investment will unlock a new wave of support for SME manufacturers, giving them access to expert technology advice, leadership training, digital skills development and match-funded grants to boost productivity, drive innovation, create high-value jobs and cut carbon.

The continuation of Made Smarter North West builds on seven years of impact across the region, with the programme already helping manufacturers modernise operations, adopt advanced technologies and build the skills needed to compete in an increasingly digital world.

Since launching in 2019, Made Smarter North West has supported over 2,400 manufacturers, developed 550 digital roadmaps, delivered 250 leadership and digital champions training interventions, and placed 85 digital interns into businesses.

Over that time, manufacturers have secured more than £8.1m in matched funding, unlocking over £28.3m of investment in technologies ranging from AI and ERP systems to robotics, automation and additive manufacturing.

Together, these investments are driving the creation of more than 1,900 jobs, upskilling almost 3,500 roles, and contributing £287m to the North West economy.

Donna Edwards, director of Made Smarter’s North West adoption programme, said: “Made Smarter has already helped transform how SME manufacturers across the North West approach technology, skills and growth, showing that with the right advice, tools and confidence, businesses can take practical steps to modernise, improve productivity and build resilience.

“This new funding is a strong vote of confidence in the programme and its impact. It means we can reach even more manufacturers, helping them to plan ahead, invest in the right technologies and develop the skills they need to grow, unlock new opportunities and build long-term, sustainable competitiveness.”

Made Smarter offers manufacturers a fast, practical route into digital transformation.

Businesses begin with an expert assessment to identify their technology and skills priorities, followed by a tailored digital roadmap to guide investment and implementation.

Leadership programmes, workforce training and digital internships help companies build the capabilities needed to adopt new technologies and embed change across their organisations.

To support investment, eligible businesses can access grants of up to £20,000 for technology projects.

It comes after Lancashire Business View reported that manufacturers across Lancashire were playing a key role in the North West’s digital transformation, with 61 leaders now equipped to drive change through Made Smarter’s flagship skills programmes.

The contribution forms part of a wider milestone which has seen more than 250 manufacturing leaders supported across the region.

To learn more and register, visit madesmarter.uk