How NAAME empowers businesses to grow and innovate
When it comes to business growth, connections make all the difference. NAAME is a key player in fostering collaborations, connecting regional supply chains, and helping businesses unlock opportunities.
Don’t take our word for it — here’s how three local businesses have benefited from NAAME membership.
iDeas Design Consultants – Chris Deas
iDeas Design Consultants is a versatile design engineering firm with over 30 years of experience, they offer a wide range of services to support manufacturing SMEs.
As the founder and sole operator, Chris Deas knows how tough it can be to juggle client work and business development, that’s where NAAME came in. We sat down with Chris to discuss his experiences of working with us.
“I’ve been a member for a couple of years now and it’s been incredibly beneficial. As a one-man band, I rarely have time to network, but through NAAME I’ve been introduced to clients I’d never have met otherwise.”
One of those clients was Select Software, with whom Chris has now collaborated on four R&D projects. He’s also worked with Morton Farms, designing custom agricultural machinery and is already quoting for a second project.
NAAME’s support extends beyond client introductions too, with help to expand access to new local talent.
“When I moved into a bigger office, I wanted to host work experience students. NAAME connected me to local schools and colleges, which directly led to four T-level students joining me with two more lined up for next year.”
Chris has even expanded his community work with NAAME’s help.
“I recently became an Agile Enterprise Ambassador, offering guidance to students who might need extra support. It’s something I’ve always wanted to do, and NAAME helped to make it happen.”
Select Software – David Aarons
Select Software is a development-focused company specialising in resilient, customised solutions tailored to clients’ needs.
Led by David Aarons, Select Software was looking for ways to maximise underutilised services like 3D printing and CNC routing. This is what David had to say about the assistance provided by NAAME.
“Our journey with NAAME began through a face-to-face meeting facilitated by Chris at iDeas Design Consultants.
During this meeting, we outlined our requirements for addressing underutilised 3D printing services and accessing support for CNC router services.
Through NAAME’s vast network of industry experts, we were introduced to skilled CAD consultants who could bridge the gaps in our capabilities. This collaborative approach ensured we could efficiently connect with local businesses to fulfil these specific needs.”
Morton’s Farm – Rob Morton
Morton’s Farm is a family-run farm in North Norfolk, established in the 1940s. Currently the farm specialises in delivering traditional free-range turkeys and cockerels for Christmas.
For Rob Morton, NAAME played a crucial role in making introductions and facilitating the development of new grain drying and smoking machinery — a project born out of Morton’s Farm drive to diversify. Here’s how Rob described his experience.
“I was referred to NAAME by Innovate UK. NAAME immediately understood what I was trying to do and suggested I speak to a CAD designer. Using their extensive network they connected me with specialists to explore the options.
Initially, we felt that this approach might be prohibitive in terms of cost, but James from NAAME introduced me to Chris at iDeas Design Consultants and we found It was the perfect fit.”
With Chris’s help, Rob’s idea has turned into a modelled prototype, we look forward to seeing the finished manufactured machine.
“We’ve been smoking quinoa for years and wanted to design a larger smoking and roasting chamber for experimental grains. NAAME connected us with the right people to make it possible.”
Making connections that count
Whether it’s introducing businesses to local talent, connecting the supply chain, or helping to develop new products, NAAME are here to help. These success stories show how meaningful connections can lead to growth, innovation, and new opportunities for businesses of all sizes.
If you’re ready to connect with a network that helps you unlock opportunities, now’s the time to become a NAAME member.
Contact James Williamson at james.williamson@naame.co.uk to find out more or register for your free membership here