£8 million Boosts UK SMEs on a Digital Sprint
Think of it as a government‑funded cheat sheet that helps small and medium‑sized creators leap into modern gadget‑land. The new money is part of the Made Smarter Adoption programme, aimed at up to a thousand manufacturers spread out over the North West, North East, Yorkshire & Humber, and the West Midlands.
From Pilot to Full‑Scale Roll‑Out
The pilot kicked off in January 2019 in the North West, working with over a thousand firms. More than 500 businesses have already patched up their production lines or found fresh markets by adopting digitised tech. The fresh £8 million is the lifeline that will let neighbours in the North West keep the momentum – and soon, other regions will kick in as well.
- Digital upgrades include robotics, automation, additive manufacturing and the Internet of Things.
- Companies gain higher productivity, win new high‑paid jobs and slash emissions.
- Regions get a one‑stop boost toward a greener, smarter economy.
Case Studies That Taste Like Success
The Bury‑based Black Pudding Company is already building the world’s first smart black pudding factory. By installing automation and digital tools, they’re sharpening product quality and trimming waste—turning a tasty legacy into a high‑tech triumph.
Over in Altrincham, Mackinnon and Saunders, the stop‑motion animators behind Postman Pat and a handful of Hollywood projects, have embraced 3D printing to stay competitive against global giants. Now the digits are on their craft, not just on the screen.
What the Minister Feels
Deputy Minister for Investment, Lord Grimstone, joked, “The proof is in the pudding, and those who’ve adopted the latest tech are already reaping the rewards.” That’s a nod that innovation isn’t just buzz; it’s a tangible, profitable change.
Accenture’s Take
Olly Benzecry, Chairman of Accenture UK & Ireland and a Made Smarter Commissioner, said the pilot has clarified just how powerful these resources are. “Seeing a broad range of manufacturers step up industrial digitalisation keeps productivity high and jobs plentiful,” he added. The programme’s expansion across England builds on that proven NW success.
Wrap‑Up
With £8 million in the engine, UK manufacturers are getting the tools to build back better and greener from the pandemic. Whether it’s a smart slicer in a pudding factory or a new 3D printer in an animation studio, the digital tide is rising for all who dare to ride it.
