Introducing the enhanced SMAS Business Improvement Academy.

Please Note: This is a 10 day programme commencing 16 April 2026 and finishing 9 July 2026.

The enhanced Business Improvement Academy (BIA) from the Scottish Manufacturing Advisory Service (SMAS) delivers a high-impact, hands-on programme to help manufacturers and process-driven businesses not only learn about Lean but embed it into their operations – and now, reimagined for greater impact, it’s accredited by the Lean Competency System (LCS), Europe’s leading business improvement framework developed by Cardiff University.

By focusing on practical application and continuous improvement, the Academy ensures you’ll develop the capability to integrate Lean tools and techniques effectively, driving sustainable productivity gains, improved performance, and stronger leadership across the organisation.

Why join?

• Productivity that lasts – learn how to eliminate waste, streamline operations, and embed a culture of continuous improvement
• Real business impact – deliver a live improvement project tailored to your business – with an average saving of £130,000 per project
• Leadership for change – build the confidence and skills to lead improvement, influence culture, and inspire your team
• Tailored support – benefit from one-to-one coaching and peer learning to unlock long-term improvement goals

What’s included:

• Expert-led workshops
• Peer-to-peer learning
• Interactive Lean tools and techniques
• Certification from globally recognised Lean Competency System (LCS)
• Access to the LCS network, support, and events
• Ongoing wrap-around support from Scottish Enterprise, Highlands and Islands Enterprise and South of Scotland Enterprise – dependant on your location.

The outcome?

Get the skills to develop a more productive, competitive, and forward-thinking business – led by people who know how to make change happen.