Investment Attraction
Invest in Manchester
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Made Smarter and PrintCity collaborated to address the challenges faced by SMEs in Greater Manchester regarding the adoption of modern manufacturing technologies. Many of these SMEs were struggling to keep pace with advancements in digital tools such as software, industrial IoT, automation, robotics, and Additive Manufacturing. To tackle these issues, the partnership developed a white paper titled "Made Smarter technologies: powering the digital transformation of SME manufacturers," which serves as a practical guide for manufacturers looking to embrace these technologies.
The tailored solution involved delivering innovation workshops that demystified 3D printing and showcased its potential to enhance productivity and flexibility within businesses. PrintCity, which has supported over 200 SMEs in product development since its inception, played a crucial role in this initiative. The collaboration also included training programs funded by the Fast Track Digital Workforce Fund, aimed at equipping SMEs with the necessary skills to adopt these technologies effectively.
Quantifiable results from the Made Smarter initiative include helping 300 manufacturers invest £22.5 million in various digital technologies, leading to the creation of 1,600 new jobs and the upskilling of 2,850 roles. This effort has reportedly boosted the economy by £242 million. The white paper aims to further educate and inspire SME manufacturers, providing them with the knowledge and resources needed to navigate the rapidly evolving technological landscape and maintain a competitive edge.