A special event held last month in West Yorkshire celebrated 30 local businesses that have successfully embraced digital transformation, helping to drive regional growth and economic innovation. The event, hosted by Digital Enterprise (DE), showcased companies that have used the latest round of DE funding to leverage digital technologies and unlock new business potential.
Councillor James Lewis, Chair of the Economy Committee for West Yorkshire, opened the event, recognising the role of digital investment in the businesses’ achievements. “These businesses demonstrate the incredible things that can be accomplished with the right support,” he said. “Their commitment to digital transformation not only leads to their own success but contributes to strengthening the wider West Yorkshire economy.”
Digital Enterprise, which has been funding local small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) since 2016, has helped over 450 businesses in the last 16 months alone, distributing the full budget for the current phase (DE3) of the programme. Since its inception, DE has provided more than £15.5 million in funding to enable businesses to adopt digital solutions ranging from ERP systems and cybersecurity to AI and website development.
The latest event highlighted the impact of digital technology on business growth and productivity. Suzanne Bradbury, Programme Manager for Digital Enterprise, commented, “Never has it been more important for SMEs to adapt digitally, and these businesses demonstrate how embracing technology can empower growth, create jobs, and strengthen the economy.”
Among the featured businesses were Applelec Group, which used DE funding to implement an ERP system that streamlined operations, allowing the company to reduce stockholding by over 30%. Marketing Manager Rachel Gould said, “This system has transformed how we work. It’s freed up capital, enabling us to drive further growth.”
Another standout was Eden Repair Centre Ltd, which implemented a new CRM and Professional Services Automation (PSA) system. Director Andy Payne shared the company’s success, saying, “The DE grant has been a game-changer for us. It has enabled us to double our capacity without sacrificing quality, positioning us perfectly for future growth.”
The event also marked the success of Digital Enterprise’s third funding phase (DE3), launched in July 2023 with backing from the UK Government’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund. This phase continues to support growth-focused SMEs in West Yorkshire, helping them to expand, enter new markets, and improve customer experiences.
The list of the Top 30 Businesses 2024 is a testament to the broad and diverse sectors benefiting from digital transformation in the region. These include Applelec Group, Eden Repair Centre Ltd, Haley Studios Limited, and many others working across industries such as manufacturing, marketing, engineering, and technology.
Looking ahead, the programme is eagerly awaiting news of additional funding following the October Budget announcement. To keep up with updates and register for further opportunities, businesses can visit the Digital Enterprise website.