#Ad In this episode, we speak to Electra Vehicles, a West Yorkshire-based manufacturer developing electric and hydrogen-powered commercial vehicles, about the realities of building and scaling a technology-led business.

Founder Sid Sadique shares his journey from apprentice mechanic to leading a growing engineering business, and explains the challenges SMEs face in capital-intensive sectors, from regulation and skills shortages to the high cost of innovation.

The conversation explores how Horizon Europe funding has supported Electra’s growth, not only through investment in research and development, but by opening access to international partners, customers and markets. For a business operating in a space typically dominated by large global players, that combination of funding and collaboration has been key.

We also discuss why support for SMEs matters more broadly (from access to talent and technology to guidance on entering new markets) and how businesses can approach innovation funding strategically.

For SMEs looking to scale, this episode offers a practical perspective on how innovation, partnerships and support can help turn ambition into growth.