By KLTV Newsdesk – 

Fresh Government funding to help SMEs embrace digital technology, boost productivity and create high-value jobs

Hundreds of manufacturers across West Yorkshire are set to accelerate their digital transformation following confirmation of £2.4 million in new Government funding for the Made Smarter programme from April.

The extension of the flagship initiative marks a new phase of support for small and medium-sized manufacturers, offering a combination of expert advice, leadership training and digital skills development. Businesses will also be able to access match-funded grants of up to £20,000 to invest in new technologies.

Together, these measures aim to boost productivity, drive innovation, create high-value jobs and support the transition to net zero.

Strong track record of impact

Made Smarter Yorkshire, a government-backed and industry-led programme, is delivered by the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority in partnership with regional authorities across York and North Yorkshire, Hull and East Yorkshire, and West Yorkshire.

Since its launch in 2021, the programme has engaged with more than 1,250 manufacturers, helping them take practical steps towards digital adoption. Over 715 digital roadmaps have been created, giving businesses clear and actionable plans for transformation.

To help turn these plans into reality, more than 200 businesses have received intensive technical support, alongside over 100 capital grants worth £1.4 million. These investments have supported the adoption of technologies including automation, robotics, artificial intelligence, additive manufacturing and data-driven systems.

This funding has also unlocked a further £2 million in private sector investment, delivering a combined £3.4 million boost to the region’s manufacturing base.

Building skills and leadership

Alongside investment in technology, the programme has placed strong emphasis on developing leadership and workforce skills.

Digital Leaders and Digital Champions programmes have strengthened capabilities at both strategic and operational levels across nearly 115 businesses. In addition, 37 university students have contributed to real-world transformation projects through digital internships, helping companies embed new skills and accelerate change.

Jessica Armitage, Programme Manager for Made Smarter Yorkshire & Humber, said: “This new wave of funding is a significant boost for Yorkshire’s manufacturing community. Over the past four years, we have demonstrated what is possible when SMEs are given the right combination of advice, skills and technology support.

“The continuation of the programme gives businesses the confidence to plan ahead, invest in their future and scale with purpose. We are excited to support the next wave of manufacturers to unlock productivity, build resilience and drive long-term growth across the region.”

Supporting innovation in West Yorkshire

The latest funding is expected to particularly benefit manufacturers in West Yorkshire, a region known for its strong industrial heritage and growing innovation sector.

Nick Edwards, Business Relationship Manager for West Yorkshire at Made Smarter, said: “West Yorkshire is home to some of the most innovative manufacturers in the country, and this new investment will help them stay ahead in a rapidly changing digital world.

“With Made Smarter, we can give businesses the skills, technology and confidence they need to unlock growth, improve productivity and create good jobs for local people.”

How businesses can benefit

Made Smarter provides manufacturers with a structured pathway into digital transformation, beginning with an expert assessment and a tailored roadmap to guide investment and implementation.

Businesses can then access specialist technical support from RTC North, alongside leadership development, workforce training and digital internships delivered by Sheffield Hallam University.

Eligible companies may also secure match funding of up to 50 per cent, with grants of up to £20,000 available to support technology adoption.

With fresh funding secured, the programme is set to expand its reach and help even more manufacturers future-proof their operations in an increasingly digital economy.