Digital drive helps businesses work smarter

Manufacturers across the Tees Valley are being offered fresh support to invest in digital technology, improve productivity and unlock growth.

The Made Smarter programme, backed by the Tees Valley Combined Authority, provides businesses with specialist training, one-to-one guidance and grant funding to help them adopt new technology.

Middlesbrough-based fabrication studio Sawdust CIC is among the firms to benefit, using the programme to invest in a laser cutter, laptop and 3D printer.

The equipment is helping the company reduce waste and improve its workflow, while supporting its work providing artists with affordable access to fabrication equipment, workspace and technical expertise.

Sawdust, which celebrated its first anniversary last month, is also aiming to raise £1000 through donations to support its community work.

Founding director Will Hughes said: “These pieces of equipment really save us time.

“Speeding up our workflow means we can go from job to job much quicker and make more money.”

Made Smarter offers fully funded workshops alongside grants of up to £3,500 for specialist technical advice and capital grants of up to £20,000 towards new digital equipment and software.

Businesses can also receive tailored support to develop a digital roadmap, whether they are adopting technology for the first time or looking to improve existing systems.

Will added: “We were surprised at the breadth and depth of businesses we met at our first event.

“We wondered if it was for us, given that we are a quite creative organisation.

“But there was a bakery there, and an artisan maker, so we felt at home on that programme.

“I would recommend Made Smarter because it definitely helps you think about where you need to go as an organisation to build your skills in what you do next.”

Tees Valley mayor Ben Houchen added: “Investing in the right technology can help our businesses save time, cut costs and win more work.

“Made Smarter gives local firms practical support, expert advice and crucial funding to make their businesses fit for the future.

“I’d urge any small or medium-sized manufacturer looking to grow to sign up.”

The next Made Smarter sessions will take place on September 16 and 23. Places can be booked here.

To find out more about Made Smarter, click here.

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