More than 325,000 SMEs in the engineering and manufacturing sectors, are the backbone of the UK economy, driving innovation, job creation, and growth.
Yet, many argue that their experiences and insights have too often been overlooked in national policy discussions.
The Policy Centre for Supply Chain and SMEs, powered by Enginuity, the former Sector Skills Council, has been created in a bid to enact change.
It will act as a convener of industry leaders, sector bodies, policymakers, and the UK Government, ensuring that the realities facing British SMEs are not just heard, but drive meaningful change at the very highest level.
The centre’s mission is to engage SMEs directly, to unify and amplify their voices as an independent arbiter.
It will bring together stakeholders to collaborate on the skills and policy priorities that drive growth and support a thriving and resilient supply chain.
Ahead of the budget, Ann Watson, CEO of Enginuity, said: “SMEs are the lifeblood of the UK economy yet often fail to be heard by those making policy in key areas at the heart of government – and those honing policy need to listen.
“Effective government policy depends on meaningful engagement with the people and organisations whose insights and experience are essential to its success.
“SMEs are huge in number, but that can mean that they can be difficult to identify and engage, and their individual voices lack unification, amplification and clarity.
“This is where Enginuity’s Policy Centre can really come into its own, creating the epicentre between SMEs, Government and others, ensuring that positive and productive engagement and dialogue take place.”
The Policy Centre will work as a constructive ally and critical friend to the UK Government, supporting efforts to future-proof British manufacturing and engineering.
By advocating for policies and skills development that reflect the real-world needs of SMEs, the centre aims to help create a thriving, resilient industrial base that underpins the UK’s growth ambitions.
Through advocacy, campaigns and direct engagement, SMEs will have new opportunities to influence decision-makers and see their input translated into tangible outcomes.
The centre will also provide clear guidance to help businesses navigate policy changes and contribute to evidence-led dialogue.
According to Enginuity, this is a pivotal moment for UK manufacturing and engineering. With the launch of the Policy Centre, SMEs now have a powerful, united voice at the top table, ensuring their perspectives shape the future of British industry.
Ann Watson added: “By gathering robust data, conducting research, and fostering honest dialogue, the Policy Centre will provide evidence-based recommendations to shape policies that strengthen SMEs and reinforce the UK supply chain.
“We are here to do what’s right for SMEs and the supply chain-giving them a platform and the influence they deserve.
“Our approach is collaborative and impact driven. We believe that by bringing together industry, sector networks, membership organisations, and large employers, we can align priorities, amplify influence, and tackle the sector’s most pressing challenges together.”
Policymakers, partners, and businesses interested in supporting SMEs and the supply chain are encouraged to contact the Policy Centre for Supply Chain and SMEs. To learn more or get involved, visit The Policy Centre – powered by Enginuity.