Made Smarter, the movement accelerating the digital transformation of SME manufacturers, has reached a major milestone - backing NorthWest companies to invest £25m in new technologies. 

More than three hundred businesses have now secured £7.1m matched funding from the government-funded, industry-backed initiative over the last six years, adopting technologies as diverse as sensors, robotics, 3D printing and artificial intelligence (AI) - including one in Sandbach. 

These companies have put £18m of private sector investment towards 379 technology projects which are forecast to create over 1,700 new jobs - an average of five each, and upskill 3,200 existing roles - almost 10 per business. What is more, the investments in technology and people are set to add £267m to the economy over the next three years. 

In Cheshire, these include 29 companies who have invested almost £1.5m into 34 projects, creating 105 new jobs and up skilling 237 roles, while boosting the county's economy by £16.7m. 

Made Smarter's funding panel, which comprises leading figures from across the worlds of business, government and academia, offers grants of up to £20,000 towards new technology and digital tools. 

Among the latest wave of companies securing grants is Newfield Fabrications, based in Hall Lane, Sandbach.  

Commenting on the latest milestone and grant awards, Donna Edwards, Director of the Made Smarter Adoption Programme in the North West, said: "These technology projects will have a tremendous impact on individuals, businesses, the sector and society.

"They will boost efficiency, productivity and growth, creating new jobs and up skilling existing roles, all while shifting the dial on creating a more sustainable approach to manufacturing.  

 "I welcome these companies into the Made Smarter family. Alongside the hundreds who have already reaped the rewards of the adoption programme, we have now invested over £25m into the digital transformation of the sector. 

As well as grants, Made Smarter offers SME manufacturers access to funded support including digital transformation workshops to create a digital roadmap, impartial and expert technology advice, and leadership and skills training. 

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