The IGNITE-LDR proposal aims to empower less developed regions (LDRs) by driving the adoption of advanced manufacturing technologies and fostering cross-regional collaboration. By addressing the pressing challenges of digitization, production optimization, and sustainability, IGNITE-LDR bridges the gap between well-established innovation hubs in more developed regions and the needs of manufacturing SMEs in LDRs. The project is built on a foundation of proven tools and solutions, including AGORA for innovation networking, F6S for funding discovery, and RAMP Marketplace for business collaboration and fast technology deployment, which lower the barrier of adoption of advanced technology for new interested Manufacturing SMEs. These are further enhanced by a network of testbeds and regional hubs to ensure accessibility in their regions and tangible impact to the regional SMEs. Through tailored open call and pilot demonstrators, IGNITE-LDR fosters regional innovation and cooperations and scales up technology readiness levels (TRLs) from 6/7 to 8/9, equipping SMEs with practical solutions to improve efficiency, reduce waste, and adopt circular economy practices. With a consortium of 23 partners spanning 14 countries, including 9 LDRs (Greece, Croatia, Romania, Poland, Slovenia, Bulgaria, Hungary, Latvia, Portugal), IGNITE-LDR focuses on knowledge transfer, technology validation, and ecosystem strengthening. The project delivers cutting-edge solutions such as intelligent process orchestration, cloud tools, and robotic automation while fostering training and upskilling through dedicated courses and workshops with a specific focus on gender balance. The proposal addresses the AI ethics through a comprehensive approach that ensures fairness, transparency, accountability, and inclusivity while fostering trust in the technologies being developed.