"The IfM’s methodologies and tools, which are based on ten years’ research and experience at the IfM, are designed specifically for small and medium-size manufacturers (SMEs) and address the key issues they face." - Peter Templeton, head of IfM ECS

The IfM is joining forces with Business Link West Midlands and the Manufacturing Advisory Service (MAS) to help support small businesses in the region.

The IfM has been selected by Business Link WM the government-funded business advice and guidance service to offer  business support to manufacturing firms. Under the contract it will work alongside the Manufacturing Advisory Service to deliver workshops and one-to-one support.

The IfM’s Education and Consultancy Services will be working with 75 firms between now and September.

The programme is completely free but firms need to register through Business Link West Midlands to ensure they are eligible.

Called the Manufacturing Business Transformation Service (MBTS), it builds on the successful IfM programme which has been running in the East of England for almost a year.

Peter Templeton, head of IfM ECS, said the programme would help West Midlands firms maintain their competitive edge:

“The IfM’s methodologies and tools, which are based on ten years’ research and experience at the IfM, are designed specifically for small and medium-size manufacturers (SMEs) and address the key issues they face.

“The programme is extensive and we will be working alongside Business Link West Midlands and another delivery partner, the Manufacturing Advisory Service (MAS) to deliver a comprehensive package of business assistance.“

Lorraine Holmes, Chief Executive Business Link West Midlands, said of the new partnership “We are delighted to be working with Cambridge University and MAS to deliver this timely package of support tailored to the specific needs of manufacturing SMEs."

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