Manufacturers in the East Midlands are being encouraged to capitalise on Made Smarter, a government-backed programme that offers tailored support to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) seeking to integrate digital technologies into their operations.
The initiative includes up to £20,000 in matched grant funding to help manufacturers automate manual processes, improve stock control, or enhance production planning through the use of technology. Beyond funding, the programme provides access to digital experts, personalised change roadmaps, leadership and skills development, and fully funded internships pairing manufacturers with students or graduates to explore digital projects without long-term commitments.
The support aims to improve productivity, reduce costs, and increase resilience for regional manufacturers, many of whom are under pressure to modernise in the face of economic uncertainty and global competition.
With limited places available and time-sensitive funding, businesses are being encouraged to assess their digital readiness and act now to secure support. The Made Smarter programme has already demonstrated results in other regions, where participants report improved efficiency, faster innovation, and greater confidence in deploying new technologies.
