Manufacturers to benefit from digital strategies partnership
Cumbria's small and medium-sized manufacturers are set to benefit from a new partnership between Made Smarter and two leading universities.
The University of Salford and Manchester Metropolitan University will help offer a programme to help companies develop vital digital strategies.
The initiative, titled 'Leading Digital Transformation' (LDT), is part of a larger government-driven plan to boost digital adoption across the North West's manufacturing sector.
The programme is fully funded and will support 40 additional SME manufacturers in the coming year, many of them based in Cumbria.
Made Smarter has provided support to over 100 participants over the past six years, helping them adopt and implement advanced technologies across fields such as aerospace, food, and precision engineering.
The success and positive impact of the initiative has motivated its expansion, enabling it to benefit even more manufacturers.
Ruth Hailwood, Made Smarter's Lead Organisation and Workforce Development Specialist, said: "The Leading Digital Transformation programme has been a major success, equipping over 100 regional leaders with the tools and insight needed to accelerate the adoption of advanced digital technologies in their businesses.
"This programme gives manufacturers the space to step back, reflect, and develop a digital strategy tailored to their needs.
"By placing people at the heart of digital transformation, we're enabling meaningful change and long-term success."
The fast-track programme equips business owners and senior managers with the knowledge needed to instigate digital change within their establishments.
They will learn about developing bespoke digital strategies and implementing advanced technologies within their operations.
It also teaches participants about the cultural shift required for successful transformation.
This requires team engagement and stakeholder alignment around innovation goals.
The three-month delivery will take place through a blended learning method.
This includes face-to-face workshops, online webinars, case studies, and visits to technology demonstrators at both of the collaborating universities.
Participants are set to explore the University of Salford's NERIC (North of England Robotics Innovation Centre), a specialist robotics and automation facility.
They will also tour Manchester Met's PrintCity, a 3D additive and digital manufacturing centre, and the newly launched Robotics Living Lab.
The initiative has received praise from across the board.
Dr Ann Mulhaney, Associate Professor of Change Management at the University of Salford, and leader of their cohort, said: "Securing the rollout of this innovative programme further strengthens the University of Salford's reputation for delivering impactful, world-class business leadership development.
"We are proud to partner with Made Smarter and Manchester Metropolitan University to support a new wave of ambitious SMEs as they embark on their digital transformation journeys."
Manchester Metropolitan University also echoed these sentiments.
Professor Jennie Shorley, Academic Director at Manchester Metropolitan University's Centre for Enterprise, said: "Being on board for another year delivering the Made Smarter programme is fantastic news for the SME community in the region.
"Our proven strengths in enabling businesses to not just develop their innovations, but create sustainable solutions that are embedded across their organisations, means we are helping to secure the region's economic strengths for years to come.
"Partnering with our colleagues at the University of Salford means we can support even more businesses."
Since 2019, Made Smarter has assisted over 2,500 manufacturers across the North West through expert digital advice, technology adoption roadmaps, and workforce development opportunities.
Registration for the next round of the LDT programme is now open.
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