NWSmart5.0 Secure Digital Transformation for Manufacturing
NWSmart5.0 is a collaborative initiative supporting manufacturing organisations as they navigate secure digital transformation. Funded by Cyber Focus and delivered with Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce (GMCC) and Greater Manchester Institute of Technology (GMIOT), the programme strengthens cybersecurity capability, supports responsible adoption of emerging technologies, and builds long‑term resilience across the region.
As manufacturing systems become more connected, organisations face increasing exposure to cyber threats, operational disruption and skills shortages. NWSmart5.0 responds through practical engagement, applied research and open knowledge exchange between academia and industry.
Why It Matters
Manufacturers continue to be a prime target for cyber attacks—risks that can halt production, disrupt supply chains and cause significant financial loss. Meanwhile, technologies such as automation and AI offer substantial benefits but can introduce new security vulnerabilities.
NWSmart5.0 helps organisations manage these pressures by emphasising:
- Practical, achievable security improvements
- Safe and responsible use of AI and digital tools
- Continuous development of workforce capability
- Integrating cybersecurity into broader digital transformation strategies
This support strengthens competitiveness, resilience and preparedness for an Industry 5.0 future.
What We Do
| Cybersecurity awareness and risk management | Safe and responsible AI adoption | Digital transformation support | Workforce skills and capability development |
| Helping organisations understand key threats and adopt practical safeguards to protect operations and data. | Providing guidance on secure, ethical and well‑governed integration of AI technologies. | Supporting organisations to assess readiness, identify opportunities and implement secure digital strategies. | Building knowledge and confidence in managing cyber risks and emerging technologies. |
Key Activities
Interactive workshops
In‑person sessions covering cybersecurity fundamentals, emerging threats, safe AI implementation and digital transformation planning.
Workshops are practical, scenario‑based, and tailored for manufacturing environments.
Tailored organisational support
Selected organisations receive targeted support, including readiness assessments, gap analysis and development of structured improvement roadmaps.
Digital Knowledge Hub
An open‑access hub providing:
- Learning materials for continuous improvement
- Best‑practice guidance
- Practical tools and checklists
- Case studies
Our Approach
The programme brings together academic expertise, industry insight and applied delivery to ensure activities are relevant and impactful.
Our approach focuses on:
- Real-world application over theory
- Ongoing engagement, not one‑off interventions
- Alignment with recognised cybersecurity and digital standards
- Knowledge exchange between researchers, partners and participating organisations
Partners
NWSmart5.0 is delivered with strong regional collaboration:
- Cyber Focus – Funding the project and supporting applied cybersecurity research and SME‑focused innovation.
- Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce (GMCC) – Driving business engagement across the manufacturing community.
- Greater Manchester Institute of Technology (GMIoT) – Enhancing digital and technical skills across the workforce.
Want to find out more?
Get in touch:
Dr Angel Jimenez‑Aranda
Associate Professor in Digital Transformation
Salford Business School, University of Salford
A.Jimenez-Aranda@Salford.ac.uk