A £1 million funding round has been launched by Made Smarter, a government-backed programme aimed at accelerating digital adoption among small and medium-sized manufacturers in the Northwest of England.
The initiative, which has been active since 2018, is providing match-funded grants of up to £20,000 to support the implementation of advanced technologies such as robotics, automation, 3D printing, the Internet of Things (IoT), and Artificial Intelligence (AI).
The funding is intended to help businesses improve productivity, increase resilience, support growth, and enhance sustainability.
In addition to financial support, participating companies gain access to a range of services, including expert technology advice, digital strategy development, leadership and skills training, and student placement opportunities.
One beneficiary of the programme, Foams 4 Sports, used its grant to invest in a digital CNC machine, automating a previously manual cutting process. The Ashton-under-Lyne-based company, which produces safety equipment for a wide range of sectors, reportedly saw significant improvements in productivity, material efficiency, and workforce capability as a result.
Ben Michael, General Manager at Foams 4 Sports, said: “We need to look to technology as a solution to our challenges. This is a massive leap forward. Made Smarter has been incredible – helping us build a clear roadmap, evaluate technology options, and prepare our team for change. The future is exciting for Foams 4 Sports.”
Donna Edwards, programme director for Made Smarter Northwest, added: “We are now entering our seventh year of equipping North West manufacturers with the know-how and confidence to embrace the next industrial revolution.”
Achievements and innovations in retail and e-commerce, healthcare and pharmaceuticals, food and beverage, automotive, transport & logistics, and more will be celebrated at the Robotics & Automation Awards on 29 October 2025 at De Vere Grand Connaught Rooms in London. Visit www.roboticsandautomationawards.co.uk to learn more about this unmissable event for the UK’s robotics and automation sectors!
