Digital Manufacturing Light programme expanded to support manufacturers

The Government is expanding the Digital Manufacturing Light programme to support small and medium sized manufacturers to adopt practical digital tools that can improve productivity, build workforce capability, and support long term business resilience.

Delivered by the University of Auckland, the programme provides hands on support to manufacturers seeking to introduce digital technologies into their existing operations. The expansion follows a successful pilot and responds to ongoing productivity and capability challenges across the manufacturing sector.

From 1 April 2026, funding of up to $475,000 per year over 3 years will support the expansion of the University of Auckland led programme. The funding is set to support at least 180 manufacturers across Auckland and parts of Waikato, Northland and the Bay of Plenty, where around 55 per cent of New Zealand’s manufacturers are located.

Digital Manufacturing Light is co-funded with participating businesses. Those taking part will receive a tailored assessment of their digital needs, guidance on selecting appropriate technologies, assistance with installation, and training to support effective use of the technology on the factory floor.

A core focus of the programme is building capability within businesses by working alongside manufacturers and their own technical staff. This approach supports sustainable improvements and helps embed digital skills within the workforce beyond the life of the programme.

Read the Minister’s press release:

Boosting manufacturing productivity with digital tools(external link) — Beehive.govt.nz

Businesses that wish to inquire about the Digital Manufacturing Light programme or have the intention to partake, email:

dmlight@auckland.ac.nz

Further information on the current Digital Manufacturing Light pilot programme can be found:

Digital Manufacturing Light(external link) — Auckland Council