Made smarter returns to help manufacturers adopt new technology

April 15th 2026

It makes sense – so join.

That’s the message being sounded for our region’s ambitious manufacturers as a new round of the popular Made Smarter programme gets going.

Manufacturers across our region are being strongly urged to sign up for the latest round of the successful Made Smarter programme – helping firms boost productivity, improve efficiency and unlock growth through digital technology.

Backed by the Tees Valley Combined Authority, the initiative offers hands-on support, specialist training and grant funding to help businesses take the next step in their digital journey.

Firms can access fully funded workshops, one-to-one expert guidance and grants of up to £3,500 for technical advice, alongside capital grants of up to £20,000 to invest in new digital equipment and software.

Those taking part will also benefit from tailored support to develop a digital roadmap – whether they are just starting out or looking to build on existing capabilities.

The next cohort of workshops will take place at Teesworks Skills Academy, on Wednesday 20th May and Wednesday 3rd June, giving businesses the tools they need to embrace digital transformation, streamline operations and become more competitive.

Stockton-based Daisy Chain accessed support through the programme as it developed its innovative Neuthread sustainable clothing brand.

The regional autism and neurodiversity charity supports more than 10,000 people each year.

And through Made Smarter, Daisy Chain was able to better understand how digital tools could support its manufacturing ambitions at Neuthread, from production design through to warehouse layouts and process mapping.

The programme helped the organisation identify key digital solutions, including garment grading software and specialist machinery, while it brought in more efficient processes and environmental data tracking into its operations.

The result was the charity saw major improvements – including reducing production bottlenecks from weeks to hours, which is expected to lead to an increase in productivity of 50% through improved processes alone.

Johnathon Pickard, Director of Business Development at Daisy Chain, said: “The Made Smarter programme came at exactly the right time for us.

“As we were preparing to launch our Neuthread manufacturing operation, the workshops helped shape how we set up our warehouse and production processes from day one.

“Crucially, it gave us the confidence to pause, take a step back, and fully understand our needs before investing.

“That decision alone has likely saved us from making costly mistakes.

“The connections made through the programme and the ongoing support from the team have been invaluable, and we are now in a much stronger position to move forward with our digital investment.”

Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen said: “We’ve built real momentum in Teesside, Darlington and Hartlepool by backing our manufacturers and helping them grow, compete and create jobs.

“Made Smarter is a part of that. It gives businesses – and brilliant organisations like Daisy Chain – the knowhow, support and confidence to embrace new technology and take more informed decisions.

“We’ve already seen the difference it can make, with firms growing, cutting costs and opening up new opportunities.

“I know we have brilliant manufacturers this could still benefit – so I’d urge any anyone looking to grow and futureproof their business to get involved.”

Businesses taking part will attend three core workshops covering Business & Digitalisation Strategy, Lean Thinking & Process Mapping, and Change & Project Management – equipping them with the knowledge and confidence to implement new technologies effectively.

An event to find out more about the programme is taking place on the morning of Wednesday, 22 April, at Teesworks Skills Academy.

This will help firms discover more about the support on offer directly from companies who have accessed help. It’ll also offer a chance to meet service providers.

Places can be booked here: www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/made-smarter-developing-your-digital-future-tickets-1986886445845

To find out more about Made Smarter, go to: www.teesvalley-ca.gov.uk/business/made-smarter