Digital Transformation in Supply Chains for SMEs

This practical and interactive workshop will help you understand the key areas of digital change, overcome common barriers, and uncover real opportunities in today’s fast-moving business environment.

Tailored specifically for SME leaders and managers, this session connects digital tools with real operational improvements — helping you move from manual processes to smarter, connected systems.

Through real-world examples and hands-on strategies, you’ll learn how to make your supply chain more agile, efficient, and resilient — even on a limited budget.

Topics include:

• Moving from paper and spreadsheets to connected digital systems
• The difference between digitalisation (making things digital) and digital transformation (changing how you operate)
• Gaining competitive advantages through speed, responsiveness, and accuracy
• Exploring low-cost or no-cost tools for SMEs — from cloud drives and online procurement platforms to barcode scanners and digital invoicing
• Improving data visibility: tracking stock levels, supplier status, and customer demand
• Enhancing communication and collaboration through online ordering, supplier portals, and video calls
• Increasing efficiency with automation and workflow tools
• Elevating the customer experience with order tracking and faster response times
• Tackling budget challenges — how to start small and scale effectively
• Developing staff skills and integrating new tools with existing processes
• Understanding security and data protection essentials

Who should attend

• SME owners and business managers
• Supply chain managers and operations professionals
• Anyone interested in strengthening supply chain resilience through smarter digital methods

Please note this event is funded via the Tees Valley Supply Chain programme and delivered by Northumbria university.

This is a closed event for programme beneficiaries only, and anyone new to the programme can sign up via the following link:

https://teesvalley-ca.gov.uk/business/supply-chain/

About Tees Valley Supply Chain

Tees Valley Supply Chain is delivered by RTC North on behalf of the Tees Valley Mayor and Combined Authority, and the Tees Valley Business Board.

If your business is based in Tees Valley (Darlington, Hartlepool, Middlesbrough, Redcar & Cleveland or Stockton-On-Tees), support is fully funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. Support is conditional based on eligibility and suitability checks, and for one-to-one productivity support the completion of a diagnostic.