Programme returns to help firms work smarter

A regional initiative is supporting Tees Valley manufacturers to improve productivity through digital innovation.

Made Smarter has returned, offering regional firms hands-on support, training and funding to accelerate digital transformation and improve efficiency.

Backed by the Tees Valley Combined Authority, the initiative provides workshops, one-to-one guidance and grants of up to £20,000 for new equipment, alongside grants of up to £3500 for technical advice.

Businesses will also receive tailored support to develop digital strategies, whether they are starting out or looking to build on existing capabilities.

Stockton-based charity Daisy Chain is among those to benefit, using the programme to support its Neuthread clothing brand. 

By adopting digital tools and improving processes, it reduced production bottlenecks from weeks to hours and expects a 50 per cent productivity boost.

Johnathon Pickard, director of business development at Daisy Chain, said: “The Made Smarter programme came at exactly the right time for us.

“As we were preparing to launch our Neuthread manufacturing operation, the workshops helped shape how we set up our warehouse and production processes from day one.

“Crucially, it gave us the confidence to pause, take a step back, and fully understand our needs before investing.

“That decision alone has likely saved us from making costly mistakes.

“The connections made through the programme and the ongoing support from the team have been invaluable, and we are now in a much stronger position to move forward with our digital investment.”

Workshops will take place at Teesworks Skills Academy on May 20 and June 3, with an introductory event on April 22 giving businesses the chance to explore the support available.

The programme aims to help manufacturers become more competitive while unlocking long-term growth through innovation.

Tees Valley mayor Ben Houchen added: “We’ve built real momentum in Teesside, Darlington and Hartlepool by backing our manufacturers and helping them grow, compete and create jobs.

“Made Smarter is a part of that. 

“It gives businesses – and brilliant organisations like Daisy Chain – the knowhow, support and confidence to embrace new technology and take more informed decisions.

“We’ve already seen the difference it can make, with firms growing, cutting costs and opening up new opportunities.

“I know we have brilliant manufacturers this could still benefit – so I’d urge any anyone looking to grow and futureproof their business to get involved.”

Places can be booked here.

To find out more about Made Smarter, go to: Made Smarter - Business

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