Funding to boost efficiency in SME manufacturing
Up to £2 million is available for feasibility projects through Innovate UK’s Made Smarter Innovation Challenge.
Help for manufacturers to boost energy and resource efficiency
Innovate UK has launched a new funding competition to support small and medium-sized UK manufacturers in developing innovative digital technologies for better energy or resource efficiency.
As part of the Made Smarter Innovation Challenge, up to £2 million is available for feasibility studies that aim to deliver more productive, resilient and sustainable sector.
The competition is open to UK-registered SMEs working in manufacturing.
To be eligible, projects must cost between £25,000 and £100,000, and last between three and six months. They must focus on developing digital tools that are affordable, easy to use, and scalable across the sector. These should target specific improvements in energy or resource efficiency, focusing on things like:
- boilers, air compressors, motors, pumps, chillers, welding, spray, dryers, ovens, heavy machinery or presses
- waste reduction in raw materials, production process waste, packaging, utilities, and more
All proposals must include a feasibility study with details such as a market strategy, technical and financial viability, and a plan for commercialisation.
The deadline for applications is 11am on Wednesday 2 July 2025.
Potential applicants can join an online briefing event at 11am on 10 June 2025 to find out more.
First published 10 June 2025