Small and medium-sized manufacturers across Wales will now have
access to funding to modernise their businesses and boost sales
through £2.2m of new investment.
The Tech Valleys Business Productivity Enhancement Programme
helps engineering and manufacturing companies work efficiently
and develop new products through cutting-edge technology.
Over three years, eligible companies will receive a free business
diagnostic. Those who qualify can then apply for a capital grant
between £10,000 and £50,000.
Recipients also receive a tailored support package covering
skills development and export advice.
The programme has a strong track record in enhancing productivity
for Welsh SMEs.
Between 2020 and 2023, 83% of recipients reported increased
productivity. Collectively, businesses generated an additional
£1.6m in sales while raising wages, upskilling their workforce
and safeguarding jobs.
Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Energy and Planning,
said:
“This £2.2 million investment shows our commitment to
strengthening Wales's manufacturing sector. By helping SMEs adopt
new technologies and digitise their processes, we are helping to
protect jobs and create opportunities for growth across Welsh
communities.
"I am confident this funding will help even more Welsh
manufacturers thrive and compete in an increasingly digital
marketplace."
Some companies, like Blackwood-based JR Gilbert Engineering, have
already received funding this year.
The precision engineering company has used funding to buy
advanced computer-controlled machines - enabling them to take on
more complex work and significantly improve efficiency.
Director of JR Gilbert Engineering, James Beavis
said:
“Using the funding, we purchased a large CNC machine – a Doosan
DNM 750 which has enabled us to undertake complex 3D machining of
large 1.5T mould tooling, supporting local companies requiring
refurbishment work.
“We have also invested in advanced software and staff training to
program intricate toolpaths, while integrated probing allows us
to generate detailed accuracy reports. This investment has
strengthened local supply chain resilience and provided
additional capacity as our customer grows.”
Funding has also benefited family-owned Caerphilly company,
Cottam and Brookes Engineering, who bought a new digital 3D
portable measuring arm for more precise measurements - enabling
them to speed up processes.
Cottam and Brookes Engineering said:
“The BPEP funding has improved production by streamlining
services and increasing operational
efficiency. This advanced equipment has enhanced
accuracy, reducing errors and waste while improving overall
quality.
“The introduction of laser scanning technology option has
expanded capabilities, enabling detailed design work and creating
opportunities for higher-value, design led projects that
strengthen long term business growth.”
Notes to editors
The Tech Valleys Business Productivity Enhancement Programme will
run for three years from 2025-2028.
BPEP has previously shown significant success in enhancing the
productivity and technological advancement of SMES in
Wales. The original BPEP ran from 2020-2023 where the first
cohort of 12 recipients received £170k funding, which helped them
increase their sales by £1.6m collectively, with 83% reporting an
increase in productivity.
