A government-backed programme designed to fast-track digital transformation in manufacturing has hit a major milestone in the North West.
Made Smarter has now supported its 400th technology project in the region, with 25 more businesses receiving grants to invest in digital tools and systems. The industry-led initiative has channelled £7.4 million in matched funding into the sector over the last seven years, unlocking £26 million of private investment in technologies such as sensors, robotics, 3D printing and artificial intelligence.
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The result, say organisers, is a transformative boost to the regional economy — creating an expected 1,850 new jobs, upskilling more than 3,300 workers, and delivering a projected £276 million economic uplift over the next three years.
“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,” said Donna Edwards, Programme Director at Made Smarter.
“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.”
The latest cohort of manufacturers to receive support includes companies from across Cumbria, Lancashire, Liverpool City Region, Greater Manchester and Cheshire and Warrington — ranging from high-end joinery and sustainable clothing to electronics, food tech and safety testing.
In Cumbria, Brampton-based Creative Joinery + Design is introducing large-format 3D printing to boost production and support rapid prototyping. “The impact on our business is huge,” said co-owners Peter and Christopher Johnson. “It increases our production capacity, gives us the confidence to explore new markets, and will support the creation of new jobs.”
Meanwhile in Lancashire, Reverse Engineering North West Limited in Preston is bringing a key process in-house through CNC fibre laser cutting. Managing Director Paul Bimpson said: “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.”
In Liverpool, H Miller Bros said Made Smarter gave them the confidence to make transformative changes. Director Howard Miller called the advice “detailed and bespoke,” adding: “It completely transformed our business.”
Across Greater Manchester, companies like Blazing Limited, The Bubble Panda and Steely Products have all benefited. “Its contribution towards our investment in automation is a pivotal step in our growth journey,” said Mohammad Idrees, MD of Blazing Limited in Bolton.
And in Cheshire, The Eclectic Lifestyle Company in Chester praised the people-centred nature of the support. “Technology is a catalyst for our ambitions, but it’s our people… who are driving this change,” said owner John Pattinson.
Alongside grant funding, Made Smarter offers manufacturers digital workshops, technology advice, leadership training and internship programmes. For more information, visit www.madesmarter.uk.
