Creating transformational change through innovation and opportunity

Advancing Manufacturing AeroSpace encompassed two separate projects designed to play a key role in strengthening Scotland’s manufacturing industry, while creating transformational change in the aerospace and space sectors.

The Aerospace Digital Visualisation Suite and Supply Chain AeroSpace projects were established in 2020 to support Small or Medium-sized Enterprises following a £2million investment from the Advancing Manufacturing Challenge Fund and match funding. These projects completed in 2023.

South Ayrshire Council was the Lead Organisation for both projects. The Steering Group was supported by NMIS, with colleagues in the Faculty of Engineering in the University of Strathclyde; Ayrshire College; Ayrshire Engineering Alliance; Scottish Manufacturing Advisory Service and Scottish Enterprise.

Aerospace Digital Visualisation Suite

The ADVS was based at the Aeronautical Engineering Training Centre at Ayrshire College’s Ayr Campus. It offered SMEs access to innovative Extended Reality (XR) technology, helping them enter or expand their presence in the aerospace sector. Using cutting edge XR – incorporating Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) – and digital visualisation, the ADVS helped companies to innovate, develop skills and improve productivity. The services of the ADVS were available to eligible SMEs at no charge.

The ADVS Project is now closed. Please check back soon to find out what’s coming next.

Supply Chain AeroSpace

The SCA project supported SMEs to improve their productivity and competitiveness through the introduction of innovative manufacturing technologies via the National Manufacturing Institute Scotland (NMIS). It also worked with Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) and Tier One suppliers to identify supply chain opportunities for SMEs to join the aerospace and space sectors, or grow their contribution. Like its sister project ADVS, the services of SCA were available to eligible SMEs at no charge.

This project completed in June 2023. However, support is still available through South Ayrshire Council’s Business Support team. Please call 01292 616 349 or email business@south-ayrshire.gov.uk