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The Made Smarter programme is reopening for 2026/27 intake, and your organisation may be eligible to take part.

Made Smarter supports manufacturing SMEs to become digitally ready and adopt the latest technologies, from automation and data systems to advanced manufacturing tools, with fully funded expert support, training, and the opportunity to apply for a grant of up to £20,000.

Somerset businesses in the hospitality and food‑and‑drink sector can now access a free Energy and Carbon Reduction Tool from the Zero Carbon Company, designed to help organisations cut energy waste, reduce carbon emissions and lower running costs.

Fully funded by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero, the online tool uses businesses’ own energy data to identify inefficiencies, provide a tailored reduction plan and track progress over time, with virtual coaching and alerts to support lasting change. The offer is available to eligible small and medium‑sized businesses in England and aims to deliver practical, cost‑saving action alongside measurable carbon reduction.

Somerset farmers, growers, foresters and agricultural contractors can now apply for the Farming Equipment and Technology Fund 2026 (FETF 2026), delivered by Defra and administered by the Rural Payments Agency. Grants support investment in approved equipment and technology to improve productivity, animal health and welfare, and slurry management.

This round offers £50 million: £20 million for productivity, £20 million for animal health and welfare, and £10 million for slurry management. Grants are £1,000 to £25,000 per theme, and agribusinesses can apply across themes up to £75,000 in total (based on a percentage of item costs).

Businesses interested in supplying the Agratas battery manufacturing facility near Bridgwater can now register their interest via an online supply chain portal hosted by lead contractor Sir Robert McAlpine.

The portal allows companies from a wide range of sectors to submit an expression of interest and be considered for future work packages linked to the project.

Local employers are invited to take part in the Somerset Tech Skills Challenge, a free, interactive innovation event taking place on Tuesday 28 April 2026, from 10am to 1pm, at University Centre Somerset, Bridgwater and Taunton College. The event will bring together businesses, students, educators and industry partners to help shape practical solutions to Somerset’s digital and AI skills gaps.

Delivered by Tech South West in partnership with Microsoft, Bridgwater and Taunton College and the South West Institute of Technology, the event will focus on making it easier for employers to access emerging tech talent while supporting young people into real‑world opportunities. Businesses will contribute directly to collaborative workshops designed to produce practical, employer‑led outcomes.

Exmoor National Park Authority is hosting an Exmoor Awareness workshop to support tourism and land‑based businesses in developing new wildlife and nature tourism experiences.

Taking place on Tuesday 6 May 2026, from 10am to 3.30pm at Porlock Village Hall, the one‑day event will explore changing visitor expectations, Exmoor’s nature and wildlife offer, and practical tips for creating engaging, authentic experiences, with opportunities for collaboration and a ranger‑led walk. Places cost £5 per person, including lunch and refreshments, and must be booked in advance.

Podcasting That Works is a fully funded, hands-on half-day session for SME founders and business leaders, delivered by the Somerset Innovation Hub in collaboration with The Family Business Podcast and iNarrator.

Taking place on 21 May, from 9.30am to 1pm at the Firepool Centre in Taunton, the session will explore why podcasting can be an effective tool for small and medium-sized businesses, share real-world experience from a business founder, and give practical guidance on developing sustainable podcast ideas. Participants can also experience a professional studio environment and record usable audio. Register your interest by emailing a.spalding4@exeter.ac.uk.

Sedgemoor Chamber of Commerce is holding its annual Somerset Business Expo on 12 June 2026 at Junction 24 near Bridgwater. The event is expanding into a larger venue with capacity for more than 80 exhibition stands, alongside a full programme of practical workshops, panel discussions and free business support sessions from local specialists.

Building on the success of the Chamber’s previous expos, the 2026 event aims to be a standout date in the Somerset business calendar, bringing organisations together to connect, showcase and strengthen local supply chains.