Made Smarter, the movement accelerating the digital transformation of SME manufacturers, has funded its 400th technology adoption project in the North West. The milestone was achieved after 25 more companies secured support to invest in digital tools and systems.
Over the last seven years, manufacturers have accessed £7.4 million in matched funding from the government-backed, industry-led programme. This has unlocked £26 million of investment in technologies ranging from sensors and robotics to 3D printing and artificial intelligence.
These investments are forecast to generate more than 1,850 new jobs and upskill 3,300 existing roles, while delivering a £276 million boost to the regional economy over the next three years.
Commenting on the milestone, Donna Edwards, Programme Director of Made Smarter, said: “Reaching our 400th funded technology project is a proud milestone for Made Smarter and a powerful demonstration of what manufacturers in the North West can achieve with the right support. “Over the last seven years, we’ve seen hundreds of SMEs take confident steps towards digitalisation, boosting productivity, creating jobs, and laying the groundwork for long-term growth. “What excites me most is that this is just the beginning. With every new project, we’re building a stronger, smarter manufacturing base — better equipped to meet the challenges of tomorrow and lead the way in innovation, resilience, and sustainability.”
In engineering and precision manufacturing, funding has recently gone to:
- Framos Fabrications, based in Failsworth, experts in metal fabrications;
- Reverse Engineering North West Limited (RENWL) in Preston, specialists in precision machining;
- AR Technical Engineering Ltd of Carlisle, producers of industrial pipework and packaged pipe systems; and
- Steely Products in Salford, makers of tubular steel products.
Paul Bimpson, Owner and Managing Director of RENWL, said: “The support from Made Smarter has been instrumental in helping us take a significant step forward. Investing in the CNC fibre laser cutting machine means we can bring a key subcontracted process in-house, improving efficiency and creating a new subsidiary. This move will not only strengthen our capabilities, but also generate up to five new skilled jobs here in Preston, securing our growth for the future.”
Grants have also been awarded to a range of specialist manufacturers, including:
- Jetchem Systems Ltd in Ramsbottom, producers of high-pressure water jetting equipment;
- Darlington EMS Limited in Stockport, manufacturers of electronics for automotive and lifting equipment;
- Approved Hydraulics Limited, also in Stockport, suppliers of hydraulic equipment and components;
- D Squared Product Development Ltd of Liverpool, a design, engineering, and manufacturing consultancy;
- Gas Safe Europe Limited in Chester, manufacturers of safety testing products for the gas industry; and
- Eveque Leisure Equipment, based in Northwich, manufacturers of educational sports equipment.
To learn more about how Made Smarter can help your business to innovate and grow, visit www.madesmarter.uk
