Made Smarter helps manufacturers in the North East increase profits, improve efficiency and grow by investing in digital technology, people and processes.

Open to SMEs (under 250 employees) working in the manufacturing and advanced manufacturing sectors, businesses that take part in Made Smarter benefit from:
- Expert support to create a digital roadmap
- Workshops and training with other North East manufacturers
- Grant funding to invest in new technology and software
- Fully-funded Digital Intern Placements to support with digital projects

More than 350 North East manufacturers have already taken part in the programme, including: specialist battery manufacturer, Alexander Battery Technologies; GRP and metalwork specialists, Elemy Group; and growing thermoformed plastic packaging manufacturer, iPac Packaging Innovations.

Advanced Manufacturing is one of the growth sectors in the North East Mayoral Strategic Authority’s Local Growth Plan, which outlines the need to increase tech adoption to improve productivity and competitiveness.

The manufacturers of tomorrow use technology to streamline their processes - they are faster, more responsive, and more efficient. Ultimately, they make better products for less. Made Smarter helps manufacturing businesses secure a competitive edge.

To find out more, to view case studies from businesses that have taken part in the programme, and to sign up, visit madesmarter.uk