New funding will enable a University initiative to help more small manufacturers access affordable digital technology and improve productivity.
Key facts
- The Government has committed up to $475,000 per year for three years from 1 April 2026 to expand the University of Auckland-led Digital Manufacturing Light programme.
- Digital Manufacturing Light is delivered by researchers from the University’s Laboratory for Industry 4.0 Smart Manufacturing Systems and supports SMEs to adopt practical, low-cost digital technologies.
- The programme was first piloted in 2022 in partnership with Auckland Council.
The programme will continue in Auckland and expand into parts of Waikato, Northland and the Bay of Plenty, reaching around 55 percent of New Zealand’s manufacturing businesses.
Digital Manufacturing Light is led by Dr Jan Polzer and Professor Xun Xu from the Faculty of Engineering and Design’s Laboratory for Industry 4.0 Smart Manufacturing Systems (LISMS). It builds on the Digital Manufacturing on a Shoestring framework developed by the team led by Professor Duncan McFarlane from the Institute for Manufacturing at the University of Cambridge.
Xu says the pilot demonstrated how the University’s engineering expertise could translate international best practice into practical solutions for New Zealand SMEs.
“Most manufacturing firms are small, operating with limited capital and older machinery. Our Auckland pilot showed that accessible, low-cost digital tools can quickly improve productivity, operational visibility and product quality.”
Polzer says Digital Manufacturing Light helps SMEs take their first steps into digital tools without the high costs or complex systems that often hold them back.
“Our focus is on helping New Zealand manufacturers develop practical digital capability and apply proven technologies to improve operations. This programme is a clear example of how we can work directly with industry to solve real problems and strengthen technical capability across the sector.”
Catherine Lye - CEO, Advancing Manufacturing Aotearoa, says it’s rewarding to see the next phase of Digital Manufacturing Light come to life to benefit small-to-medium-sized manufacturing businesses.
“AMA looks forward to seeing these innovative digital solutions make a positive impact on businesses in Tāmaki Makaurau and across the country. By adopting these cost-effective digital solutions, businesses can be part of the future of manufacturing.”
For more information on eligibility for the Digital Manufacturing Light Programme – contact: Catherine Lye – CEO, AMA [email protected] or complete the form for expressions of interest
The Minister’s press release is here:Boosting manufacturing productivity with digital tools | Beehive.govt.nz
