On 12 March 2026, the West Yorkshire Combined Authority will host a landmark event at Unity Hall in Wakefield about the future of digital manufacturing, in partnership with techUK and Made Smarter Yorkshire & Humber. The event will celebrate the continued success of the Made Smarter programme—and mark the exciting renewal of funding from April 2026 onwards. Running from 9:00-12:00, this event forms part of the West Yorkshire Innovation Festival, celebrating digital adoption in the region and how it leads to innovation.

The event will bring together manufacturers, technology providers and public sector business support teams to explore how Industry 4.0 technologies such as AI, robotics, cybersecurity are reshaping the region’s industrial landscape. Attendees will hear the latest insights on UK manufacturing, learn about the next phase of Made Smarter support, and engage directly with experts in Industry 4.0 tech.

With a strong focus on West Yorkshire’s manufacturing strengths and future ambitions, the event will showcase real-world success stories, practical pathways to digital adoption, and the opportunities unlocked by renewed funding, advice and training. It’s a chance for SME manufacturers to connect, learn and be inspired about what comes next.
 

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