Bolton's small and medium-sized manufacturers are set to benefit from a new peer network launched by Made Smarter North West.

The Digital Champions Network aims to boost technology adoption through shared learning and experience among businesses backed by Made Smarter’s adoption programme.

Engaged employees from all levels will have the chance to connect with others at varying stages of technology adoption.

The initiative will include both in-person and online events throughout the year, aiming to create relationships based on shared learning.

Ruth Hailwood, organisation development lead for the Made Smarter North West Adoption Programme, said: "The Digital Champions Network is an opportunity to build something sustainable by harnessing what a manufacturer learns as they embark on their digital transformation journey and sharing it with their peers.

"This approach allows every member of the network to benefit from shared experiences and new ideas, creating a bigger impact for their own business and for the SME manufacturing community in the region.

"Many have offered site visits to each other to demonstrate their practices and technologies, which have proved really valuable.

"The Digital Champions Network is looking to extend these connections across the region to all manufacturers that engage with Made Smarter."

A launch event was held at the Manufacturing Technology Centre (MTC) in Liverpool, attracting businesses across the North West region.

Mark Sutherberry, senior business development manager at the MTC, said: "Made Smarter complements all our thinking and best practice in how to support manufacturers to adopt technology and skills in a sustainable, high impact way.

"It has been a pleasure hosting the launch of the Digital Champions Network, an initiative which brings together the North West’s SME manufacturing community to learn how to approach digital transformation and innovation."

Made Smarter, launched in 2019, has worked with over 2,500 manufacturers, with many receiving support through grant funding, impartial technology advice, leadership, and skills training to help transform their businesses.