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Specialist Support

Elevating Your Manufacturing Capabilities

The D4M programme has a clear ambition – to help propel Cornwall and Isles of Scilly based SME manufacturers forward through the adoption of new technologies, digital tools and innovative techniques. We provide a supportive ecosystem designed to facilitate the seamless integration of digital systems and processes into your business environment, ultimately driving growth, productivity and operational excellence.
metalworking industry: finishing metal working on horizontal surface grinder machine with flying sparks
medical pills industry factory and production indoor

Our Support

As a fully funded service, we offer comprehensive support at no direct cost. We believe in partnership, where our investment in expertise meets your commitment to innovation and growth.

D4M’s manufacturing and software specialists bring a wealth of experience to support SMEs at any stage of digital maturity. Whether starting the digital transformation journey or scaling existing technologies, we provide a suite of services including: diagnostic assessments, bespoke 1:1 advice, interactive workshops, hands-on solution implementation and collaborative peer learning.

Our support assists businesses in the following areas:

  • Improvement Roadmap – crafting a realistic pathway for the adoption and integration of new technology and digital systems within your manufacturing business.
  • Skills & Confidence – equipping your employees with practical skills and bolstering their confidence in using new software, technology, systems and processes.
  • Continuous Improvement – refining existing systems and processes to meet the high demands of a competitive and evolving market landscape.
  • Business Growth & Resilience – significantly boosting productivity and enhancing profit margins through strategic application of digital adoption projects.
  • Access to Finance – support in accessing finance to support your digital adoption ambitions.

Shoestring Manufacturing

Working in partnership with the University of Cambridge and their Institute for Manufacturing – the D4M programme includes the ‘Digital Manufacturing on a Shoestring’ service which provides an accessible entry-point into digital adoption.

Shoestring uses a step-by-step approach to support non-technical people in using simple off-the-shelf technology to create low-cost, low-risk digital solutions – providing companies with immediate benefits without disrupting core operations. A true example of the ‘art of simple’.

Training materials, expert advice, and facilitated peer meetings ensure comprehensive support for successful implementation, fostering a culture of digital innovation and confidence across your business.

Find out more
Glass bottles of beer on dark background with sun light. Concept brewery plant production line.

Live Examples of D4M Support

  • Add digital monitoring to old machinery
  • Use Shoestring to trial IOT project
  • Everything is manual and on spreadsheets.
  • Ahh – where/how do I even start?
  • Needs-analysis to help scope new software
  • Shoestring solution to digitize goods-in
  • Machinery to replace manual processes
  • Shoestring Solutions – waste monitoring
  • Analogue > Digital Data Capture
  • Data Visualisation
  • MRP system review
  • Access & Visualise Data
  • Scope Inventory Management & MRP Software (using Excel atm)
  • Automation of Manual Production Process
  • Scope use of cobot to solve labour shortage
  • Shoestring solution: bar-code job tracking feasibility
The D4M Cornwall programme will be closing on 31st March 2026 and we are therefore no longer taking applications.
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