About NWCAM2
Supporting SMEs to develop and adopt advanced manufacturing solutions.
NWCAM2 is a cross-border innovation programme designed to help SMEs explore, develop and implement new manufacturing technologies and processes.
The programme brings together research, technical expertise and industry support to help businesses overcome barriers to innovation and deliver real outcomes.
What is NWCAM2?
NWCAM2, the North West Centre for Advanced Manufacturing 2, is a cross-border innovation programme supporting SMEs to develop and adopt advanced, sustainable manufacturing solutions.
Building on the success of the original NWCAM programme, this iteration continues to support businesses across Northern Ireland and Ireland to explore new technologies, improve processes, and bring innovative products to market.
The programme is designed to help SMEs overcome common barriers to innovation, including limited access to expertise, technology and facilities, and the cost and risk associated with developing new solutions.
By combining research, technical expertise and industry collaboration, NWCAM2 provides a practical pathway for SMEs to move from idea to impact.
NWCAM2 is supported by PEACEPLUS, a cross-border funding programme designed to support economic, social and environmental development across Northern Ireland and the border counties of Ireland. The programme is managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB) and brings together partners from across the region to deliver collaborative innovation support.
Many SMEs recognise the need to innovate, but face significant barriers when trying to do so.
These challenges often include limited time and internal capacity, lack of access to specialist expertise, and the cost and risk associated with developing or adopting new technologies.
At the same time, advances in manufacturing, materials and digital technologies are creating new opportunities, particularly within the Health & Life Sciences sector and its wider supply chain.
NWCAM2 exists to bridge this gap, helping SMEs access the knowledge, capability and support required to turn ideas into practical, real-world outcomes.
By reducing the barriers to innovation, the programme enables more businesses to explore new opportunities and remain competitive in evolving markets.
Why the programme exists
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NWCAM2 is designed to support SMEs in exploring and progressing innovation within advanced manufacturing.
Through the programme, participating businesses may:
Develop or improve products, processes or manufacturing approaches
Explore and apply advanced and sustainable manufacturing technologies
Access expertise, facilities and technical capability to support innovation activity
Strengthen their ability to undertake future innovation projects
The programme also aims to support wider collaboration between industry and research organisations, contributing to increased innovation activity across the region.
Outcomes will vary depending on each project, with a focus on practical progress and real-world application.
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NWCAM2 focuses on supporting innovation in advanced manufacturing, with a particular emphasis on the Health & Life Sciences sector and its wider ecosystem.
This includes businesses that are directly manufacturing products, as well as those operating within the supply chain or providing enabling technologies, materials or services.
The programme supports innovation across areas such as:
Manufacturing processes and production methods
Materials and product development
Digital and advanced manufacturing technologies
Sustainability and resource efficiency
The focus is on helping SMEs explore and apply innovation that is relevant to their business, while contributing to advancements within the wider sector.
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NWCAM2 follows a clear, structured process designed to support your business from initial enquiry through to project delivery.
You’ll be guided through each stage, from understanding your needs to delivering a project aligned to your objectives.
Submit a short Expression of Interest and a member of the team will be in touch to discuss your business and how the programme can support you.