Prime Highlights-
- West Sussex manufacturers invest in digital technology through Made Smarter South East, a growth program backed by the county council.
- Program offers match-funded technology grants of up to £20,000, expert advice, digital skills training, leadership development and funded internships.
Key Facts-
- Worthing-based Nordell wins £17,000 grant toward AI-powered invoice processing system for its injection molding business.
- The Rider Firm wins £10,000 grant for 3D printing and advanced computing technology, with four jobs expected.
Background-
West Sussex manufacturers are investing in new digital technology through Made Smarter South East, a regional growth program that West Sussex County Council backs to help the sector innovate, build skills and grow.
A group of partners, including the county council, developed the program, which runs in its second year of delivery after it secured government funding.
It offers expert advice, leadership development, digital skills training, funded internships and match-funded technology grants of up to £20,000 to lift productivity and speed up growth.
Worthing-based plastic injection molding specialist Nordell won a £17,000 grant toward an AI-powered invoice processing system. Managing Director Paul Mason said the firm joined the program to sharpen its thinking, build skills and find ways technology can support its next stage of growth. He said the project goes beyond digitizing a finance process, because it builds a platform for growth, frees staff for higher-value work and gives the business clearer visibility and control.
The Rider Firm in Partridge Green secured a £10,000 grant toward advanced computing and 3D printing technology. The project should create four new jobs and upskill the workforce.
Cabinet Member for Economy and Skills Councillor Yvonne Gravely said the council listened to local businesses to learn what they need to seize growth opportunities. She said Made Smarter South East lets manufacturers embrace innovation, tap specialist support, train employees and use funding to adopt new technology with confidence. She praised Nordell and The Rider Firm.
