The West of England Combined Authority is helping manufacturing SMEs in the Bristol, Bath and South Gloucestershire region to maximise their digital potential. Through the brand new programme, Made Smarter West of England, eligible businesses can benefit from digital leadership acceleration sessions, student internships, and match-funded grants.
Stephen Bashford, Director of Business & Skills, West of England Combined Authority, said ‘Through Made Smarter West of England we are aiming to give manufacturing SME’s access to the digital tools, skills and innovation support they need to improve business performance and efficiency, unlocking their full growth potential.’
The programme which was launched in the summer has seen businesses from across the region register to get support to help increase profits whilst reducing costs and their carbon footprint.
The first stage of the programme, which kicked off last week, began with a fully funded bespoke assessment, delivered by the National Composites Centre, enabling SMEs to see the benefits industrial digital technologies can offer their business.
Bristol based furniture company, Huxlo Ltd, was one of the first businesses to take part in the Digital Acceleration sessions. Founder Matt Mew hopes that adopting digital processes will improve efficiency and increase outputs for the company.
On registering for Made Smarter, Matt said, “I joined the Made Smarter programme with the expectation that it could help me navigate the process of levelling up our manufacturing operations. There are many potential solutions to our challenges, and we are looking for assistance in choosing the most optimal route. Improving productivity is a vital step in enabling our SME to scale.”
Register now. Visit Made Smarter West of England
