A new programme is launching in Gloucestershire this April 2025, to help boost small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) and drive growth.
Part of the government's plan to put £16 million into the south west's manufacturing industry, Made Smarter, which launched in other regions in previous years, gives SMEs access to tools that 'help them drive growth, productivity and sustainability'.
The initiative gives businesses access to fully funded expert advice, leadership training, student interns and up to £20,000 in technology grants.
Delivered by regional partners such as the University of the West of England and the National Composites Centre, Made Smarter is available to SMEs in Gloucestershire, Bristol, Somerset, Wiltshire and other south west counties.
In its first year, the programme hopes to 'engage with over 120 businesses; deliver over 80 digital road mapping sessions; support 18 businesses with digital leadership training; and a further 21 with organisation and workforce development; offer 11 student internships; and provide 20 with match-funded technology grants of up to £20,000.'
The south west is the UK’s fourth-largest region in terms of gross value added, with the manufacturing industry making up 10.3 per cent of the region’s total output — above the national average of 9.4 per cent.
It is recorded that there were around 243,000 manufacturing jobs in the south west in 2024, representing a healthy eight per cent of the region's total workforce.
Brian Holliday, co-chair of the Made Smarter Commission and managing director of Siemens Digital Industries, said: 'Made Smarter is a driving force for digital transformation in UK’s SME manufacturing.
'In the last six years, the
programme has empowered businesses to innovate, compete and scale. This
expansion clearly signals the government’s commitment to the sector, driving
competitiveness, sustainability and productivity improvements for a robust
industrial future.'
To qualify for the programme, a business must be part of the manufacturing and engineering sector, with 250 employees or fewer and an annual turnover of £50 million or less.
Funding and support will allow businesses to look at overcoming common challenges like productivity, decarbonisation and competition through the adoption of digital technologies.
To apply, register online via the Made Smarter South West website.
