Made Smarter South-East: Powering the Next Wave of Space Innovation
Southern England is fast becoming the UK’s launchpad for upstream space innovation, and the Made Smarter South-East programme is accelerating that trajectory for ambitious space SMEs. With £1.55 million in government funding and a powerful regional partnership behind it, Made Smarter South-East is transforming how manufacturing and engineering businesses, including those at the cutting edge of space build, satellite manufacture, payload, and sensor development, embrace digital technology.
Upstream space is the engine room of the UK’s space sector, covering everything from satellite and payload design to manufacturing, integration, and launch systems. These capabilities underpin the entire space value chain, enabling the UK to deliver world-class missions, scientific breakthroughs, and vital infrastructure for everything from climate monitoring to secure communications. The sector is fiercely innovative: mastering upstream technologies like digital payloads and advanced sensors is essential for winning global contracts and supporting the downstream applications that shape our daily lives.
Digital Transformation: The Competitive Edge for Space SMEs
For space SMEs, digital transformation is not just an opportunity-it’s a necessity. The Made Smarter South-East programme gives space manufacturers the tools and support to:
Adopt next-generation digital technologies: From robotics and automation to AI-driven design and advanced data analytics, digital tools will revolutionise satellite and payload manufacturing, enabling faster prototyping, modular builds, and cost-effective scalability.
Accelerate innovation and reduce time to market: Automated and software-defined manufacturing processes are slashing development cycles and giving SMEs the agility to compete for global contracts.
Enhance quality and reliability: Digital twins and smart production systems help ensure that upstream components-whether a satellite bus, sensor, or payload-meet the highest standards demanded by space missions.
Access funding and expertise: SMEs can secure match-funded technology grants of up to £20,000, expert advice, and digital roadmapping tailored to the unique challenges of space manufacturing.
Building the Future of UK Space
The benefits of Made Smarter South-East go beyond technology. The programme offers leadership and skills development, student placements for fresh talent, and a collaborative ecosystem where space SMEs can connect with industry leaders and innovators. This is crucial for sectors like satellite manufacture, payload, and sensor development, where cross-disciplinary skills and rapid adaptation are key to success.
Dr Louise Butt, Director of the Space South Central and a new board member of Made Smarter South-East, is ensuring that the needs of the space sector are front and centre. Her leadership guarantees that the needs of the sector are included in the programme direction and space SMEs are able to access the support they need to thrive.
Dr Butt explained:
“The space sector in our region is vibrant and fast-growing, with SMEs driving innovation and economic impact. Through Made Smarter, we can accelerate adoption of robotics, immersive tech, data analytics, and AI – essential tools for global competitiveness and resilience.”
The importance of this initiative is echoed by Jim Davison, National Membership Director at Make UK, who said:
“Make UK has long championed the national roll-out of Made Smarter because we’ve seen firsthand how digital adoption can supercharge productivity, boost competitiveness, and create high-value jobs. By bringing our voice and insight to the table, Make UK will help ensure that manufacturers across the South East can unlock the full potential of digital transformation. This partnership will be instrumental in supporting the sector’s growth and resilience for years to come.”
A Call to Action for Space Businesses
Whether you’re developing next-generation payloads, building modular satellite platforms, or pioneering new sensor technologies, Made Smarter South-East is your gateway to the digital tools, funding, and expertise that can set your business apart. In a sector where innovation, speed, and quality are everything, this programme is the competitive edge space SMEs need to lead on the global stage.
Find out how Made Smarter South-East can help your space business reach new heights,visit the programme website - https://www.madesmarter.uk/
Alternatively, register via bit.ly/MadeSmarterSouthEast
