Made Smarter Backs Local Manufacturers
Manufacturing businesses across York and North Yorkshire are being encouraged to embrace digital innovation through the Made Smarter programme, a government-funded initiative that helps companies adopt new technologies and strengthen their operations.
Pictured: Mike Pennington, Chris Houston, Stephen Phipson, James Farrar.
James Farrar, Chief Executive of the York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority, believes Made Smarter plays a central role in driving regional prosperity. Farrar said: “We’re here to grow the economy and we know that jobs are created by growing businesses.
“Made Smarter is one of the key programmes that we run which supports businesses to invest in new technology to really drive their productivity, their growth and ultimately create good quality jobs in the region.”
The programme aligns closely with regional priorities, supporting innovation while strengthening the manufacturing base. It also reflects the ambitions of local leadership to build a more competitive and resilient economy.
Stephen Phipson, Chief Executive of Make UK, highlights the ongoing importance of the programme, which has been supporting manufacturers since 2017.
“The message for businesses is that the programme continues,” Phipson said. “It’s there to help companies across York and North Yorkshire and the wider region through digital road mapping, transformation support, and access to advanced technologies.
“It’s also about the next generation, ensuring young people have the skills and opportunities to thrive in modern manufacturing.”
A key focus of Made Smarter is preparing the workforce of tomorrow. Alongside technology investment, the programme places strong emphasis on skills development, offering opportunities for internships, apprenticeships, and training to bring new talent into the manufacturing sector.
In addition to skills, businesses can also benefit from capital investment support for both hardware and software projects, enabling them to adopt cutting-edge solutions.
One company that has benefited directly from the programme is Tadweld, a steel fabrication business based in Tadcaster, North Yorkshire.
Managing Director Chris Houston describes how the company has undergone a significant transformation over the past two years with support from Made Smarter.
“Traditionally, we were a paper-based organisation with low technology readiness, the programme helped us evaluate opportunities, from software improvements to capital investment, and identify where digital technologies could make a real difference.”
Through this support, Tadweld has been able to modernise its operations, improving efficiency and positioning the business for future growth.
Houston strongly encourages other manufacturers to explore what Made Smarter has to offer.
“I’d recommend it to any York and North Yorkshire-based business that wants to understand what’s possible in the digital space. Even if you don’t feel ready, there are training programmes available to help you get started.”
As the manufacturing sector continues to evolve, programmes like Made Smarter are proving essential in helping businesses adapt.
Made Smarter continues to support businesses to adapt to new demands, through the adoption of digital technologies and strengthening workforce skills, the programme is here to help companies improve performance and remain competitive across the region.
If you want to know more about the Made Smarter programme, speak to Mike Pennington for tech support, digital road mapping and possible grant support to digitise your manufacturing business.
Made Smarter Backs Local Manufacturers
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