Made Smarter programme drives digital transformation for UK manufacturers

The Made Smarter programme is driving digital transformation and productivity across manufacturing sectors in the North West and Tees Valley regions of the United Kingdom. The initiative provides businesses with specialist training, one-to-one guidance, and grant funding to adopt new technologies such as AI, automation, and 3D printing.

In the North West, the Leading Digital Transformation (LDT) programme has supported 145 leaders from 125 manufacturing businesses. Participants, including Hafferty Interiors and The Awning Company, reported that the programme helped them refine digital strategies, improve leadership planning, and break large-scale technological ambitions into manageable, phased projects.

In the Tees Valley, the programme offers fully funded workshops alongside capital grants of up to £20,000 for digital equipment and software, as well as technical advice grants up to £3,500. Local firms, such as the Middlesbrough-based fabrication studio Sawdust CIC, have utilized the support to invest in laser cutters and 3D printers to reduce waste and improve workflow efficiency.