Advanced manufacturing and materials

Advanced manufacturing and materials businesses play a critical role in strengthening the South West’s industrial capability. Find out how we're making a difference.

Advanced manufacturing and materials businesses are at the heart of the South West's industrial strength, enabling breakthroughs in energy, construction, electronics, aerospace, semiconductors and sustainable production. But moving from technical capability to commercial success requires more than engineering excellence; it demands strategic clarity, investor confidence, strong IP foundations and the ability to navigate complex, competitive markets.

Through Innovate UK Business Growth, delivered by Business West in the South West, we help advanced manufacturing and materials innovators unlock their full potential. Our innovation and growth specialists work with founders, technical teams and leadership to refine business models, strengthen investment strategies, remove barriers to scale‑up and accelerate product commercialisation.

We support businesses to:

  1. Define their value proposition and identify high‑growth market opportunities
  2. Strengthen financial and investment strategies, from grant funding to equity readiness
  3. Build robust IP protection around materials, core technologies and manufacturing processes
  4. Improve operational readiness, scalability and supply‑chain resilience
  5. Explore new sectors, markets and international pathways for growth
  6. Access technical, regulatory, commercial and R&D expertise through Innovate UK’s national network
Whether a business is developing next‑generation semiconductor technologies, sustainable construction materials, advanced composites, precision‑engineered components or innovative production methods, our support helps turn that innovation into real‑world commercial impact.
Here's what some of our advanced manufacturing clients had to say about working with us: 

What our clients say about us

Light Trace Photonics - light shaping specialists

Light Trace Photonics is developing photonic microchips; chips that have the ability to control light, as well as electricity.  Since working with Innovate UK, they have received support with their marketing strategy, investment readiness, and talent acquisition. As a result, the company has secured £600K in their recent investment round, and doubled their employees from 2 to 4.

What clients say about us

NanoScope — semiconductor specialist

NanoScope Services, a high-tech innovator based in Bristol, is transforming the semiconductor industry through its advanced microscopy and nano-engineering services. Working with Innovate UK, NanoScope has navigated complex R&D challenges, leading to significant advancements in microelectronics and semiconductor technologies.

What clients say about us

Tattva — Sustainable Building Materials

Exeter-based, Tattva, is accelerating the shift to sustainable construction with a carbon-negative building material that grows in just 10 days. With tailored business growth support from Innovate UK, the company has secured a £650,000 Innovate UK grant, raised £215,000 in private investment, grown its team from two to six, filed key patents, and established a prototype demonstration with Catnic, part of the Tata Steel Group.