2 weeks Ago
A Bolton business is investing in new technology after securing a grant. Edinburgh Weavers, a textile manufacturer, will invest in new digital tools after cash from the Made Smarter initiative. The company is one of 23 manufacturers to receive funding from the government-backed programme.
Made Smarter has now helped North West companies invest £25 million in new technologies. Over the past six years, 330 businesses in the region have secured £7.1 million, adopting technologies such as sensors, robotics, 3D printing, and artificial intelligence.
These companies have contributed £18 million of private sector investment towards 379 technology projects, which are expected to 'create over 1,700 new jobs and upskill 3,200 existing roles.' The investments in technology and people are forecast to 'add £267 million to the economy over the next three years.' In Greater Manchester alone, 96 companies have invested almost £7.
1 million into 107 projects, creating 492 new jobs and upskilling 1,032 roles, while boosting the county’s economy by £78 million. Over the past six years, 330 businesses in the region have secured £7.1 million from the Made Smarter initiative (Image: Supplied) 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 upskilling 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 £25 million into the digital transformation of the sector.
"Celebrating milestones is important. "It permits my fantastic team to take stock of the achievement and then commit to improving the services we offer to continue the Made Smarter mission." Made Smarter not only provides grants but also offers SME manufacturers access to funded support, including digital transformation workshops, impartial technology advice, and leadership and skills training.
For more information, visit www.madesmarter.uk.
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