<\/p>\n
\n Small and medium-sized manufacturers in Oxfordshire will benefit from a \u00a33.1 million investment through the Made Smarter South East programme, funded by the Government to boost digital transformation.\n<\/p>\n
\n The programme offers expert technology advice, leadership training, digital skills development, and match-funded grants to support productivity, innovation, job creation, and carbon reduction.\n<\/p>\n
\n Bryan Vint, programme manager for Made Smarter South East, said: “This new wave of funding is a huge boost for manufacturers across the South East.\n<\/p>\n
\n “In our first year we have already shown what the region can achieve when SMEs have access to the right advice, skills and technology.\n<\/p>\n
\n “The continuation of the programme gives businesses the confidence to plan ahead, invest in digital tools and build the skills they need to grow.\n<\/p>\n
\n “We are excited to help hundreds more manufacturers unlock productivity, resilience and long-term growth.”\n<\/p>\n
\n The scheme is delivered by Surrey County Council in partnership with Oxfordshire LEP.\n<\/p>\n
\n Since its launch in April 2025, Made Smarter South East has supported 273 manufacturers, participated in 137 diagnostic workshops, developed 93 digital roadmaps, and approved grants for 20 technology projects.\n<\/p>\n
\n Over the last year, manufacturers have secured more than \u00a3307,000 in matched funding, enabling over \u00a31 million of investment in technologies such as ERP systems, 3D printing, and automation.\n<\/p>\n
\n Manufacturers in Oxfordshire are already seeing the impact.\n<\/p>\n
\n Brick Kiln Composites, based in Banbury, completed a Digital Transformation Workshop and joined the Leadership Programme to explore how digital technologies could enhance their operations.\n<\/p>\n
\n Josh Tee, HR and operations manager at Brick Kiln Composites, said: “Working with Made Smarter has helped us step back and assess where digital technology can make the biggest difference to our operations.\n<\/p>\n
\n “The programme has helped us better understand our current processes, identify pain points, and explore how digital tools could improve efficiency, strengthen lean manufacturing, and support more sustainable practices.”\n<\/p>\n
\n He described the programme as a “fantastic initiative” for SMEs that builds “awareness and confidence around digital opportunities.”\n<\/p>\n
\n Mr Tee said: “As we look ahead, technologies will increasingly support every stage of the manufacturing process, from procurement through to quality assurance, helping us create positive change for both our team and our customers.”\n<\/p>\n
\n Businesses start with an expert digital assessment to identify their technology and skills priorities, followed by the creation of a tailored digital roadmap.\n<\/p>\n
\n Support includes leadership development, workforce training, and digital internships to help embed new technologies and change across the organisation.\n<\/p>\n
\n Eligible companies can receive up to 50 per cent match funding, with grants of up to \u00a320,000 available for capital technology projects.\n<\/p>\n
\n More information is available at madesmarter.uk\/adoption\/in-my-region\/south-east.\n<\/p>\n
#Oxfordshire #manufacturers #millions #fresh #funding<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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