Innovation in manufacturing

If you think that manufacturing innovation might allow you to improve your business performance, there are many sources of help and advice in the public and commercial sectors. Support may be available as:

• training and financial advice
• technological assistance
• resource-sharing with other businesses undertaking innovation initiatives

Where to find support for manufacturing innovation

Invest Northern Ireland (NI) provides a wide-ranging innovation support service to businesses in Northern Ireland. Read about Invest NI's support for developing products and services.

Innovate NI runs the Innovation Accreditation Programme in Northern Ireland that offers businesses advice, guidance and accreditation for innovating. Simply complete the Innovate NI's online self-assessment questionnaire to join.

Innovate UK EDGE offers help and advice to businesses looking to access funding or collaborate with international partners. Find out about the Innovate UK EDGE in Northern Ireland.

Business incubators nurture new companies by providing premises along with business, financial and technological support. See more on UK Business Incubation.

Business innovation centres help support and develop innovative business projects. 

UK government schemes encourage manufacturing through a range of official initiatives, partnerships and programmes. Examples include Made Smarter campaign and numerous challenges and competitions under the government's Industrial Strategy.

Business networks, trade associations and professional bodies provide a useful source of information and best practice. Examples include the Chambers of Commerce, Trade Association Forum, the Confederation of British Industry, the Engineering Employers' Federation and the Institution of Mechanical Engineers.

Training providers can help develop innovative thinking and practices.

Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) schemes help to identify universities and research organisations with expertise relevant to an innovation project that your business is undertaking. Read more about Knowledge Transfer Partnerships.

Engineering departments in universities can also offer specialist information and advice.