Manufacturers urged to embrace Made Smarter

A Tees Valley manufacturing support scheme is entering its fifth year with a new phase launching this autumn.

The Made Smarter Adoption North East programme helps small and medium-sized manufacturers adopt digital technology to boost growth and efficiency. 

Offering expert advice, tailored training, networking opportunities and grants of up to £20,000, the scheme is now open for new applicants.

Delivered locally by RTC North in partnership with the region's two Combined Authorities and backed by the UK Government, the programme has supported nearly 100 SMEs in the Tees Valley since its launch. 

It guides businesses through workshops and bespoke support to modernise processes and improve productivity.

Redcar-based Elemy Group, specialists in composite and metal fabrication, were part of the first cohort of Made Smarter programme – which helped the firm deliver a complete shift in its approach to business processes and productivity.

Richard Brine, managing director of Elemy Group, said: “For us, taking part in Made Smarter was about much more than just accessing grant funding, it was about delivering a cultural change to improve productivity and efficiency through digital tools.

“I wanted our senior leadership team to recognise that, by investing in digital transformation, we could improve time management, greatly enhance internal communications, increase workflow, and streamline so many aspects of our work – from project management, right through to invoicing.”

Tees Valley mayor Ben Houchen added: “Made Smarter is giving our manufacturers the tools, training and funding they need to adopt modern technologies.

“The success stories speak for themselves – it’s great to see Elemy Group not only adopting new systems but also rethinking how digital technology can support their growth. 

“We’re a growing digital juggernaut across Teesside, Darlington and Hartlepool.

“And we have a hotbed of local manufacturers who could really benefit from this. 

“I’d urge them to come forward, apply and make the most of our growing strengths – this is a fantastic opportunity to get ahead.”

The upcoming cohort starts September 17 at AV Dawson, followed by workshops on 8 and 22 October. 

To find out more, see here.

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