New digital technologies scheme launches in North East to support manufacturers

A new business support programme has been launched in the North East to help manufacturing SMEs increase their adoption of digital technologies.

Made Smarter Adoption North East, the new programme which is backed by the government, connects manufacturing businesses to digital tools.

The aim of the programme is to drive growth in UK manufacturing by improving the development and adoption of emerging technologies across the sector.

Colin Bell, business growth director at the North East Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP), commented: “The coronavirus pandemic saw an unprecedented pace of digital adoption across many areas of industry, which ultimately helped many businesses survive.

“Made Smarter Adoption North East is about supporting businesses in our manufacturing sector to embrace new technologies that help them become more efficient, more productive and more competitive.

“It connects companies with expert talent that can remove the barriers to digital adoption and ultimately make businesses more successful.

“The adoption of new digital solutions within manufacturing is completely transforming the sector and if businesses don’t adapt they risk being left behind.

“Made Smarter Adoption North East is the opportunity for manufacturing businesses in our region to access the help and support they need to embrace industry 4.0 and help lead economic growth in the North East.”