Engineering & Manufacturing Network and North West Aerospace Alliance announce partnership to create new opportunities for Northern manufacturers
The Engineering & Manufacturing Network (EMN) and the North West Aerospace Alliance (NWAA) have announced a new partnership designed to create greater opportunities for engineering and manufacturing businesses across the North of England.
The collaboration brings together two established membership organisations with a shared commitment to supporting manufacturers, strengthening supply chains and helping businesses access new markets.
EMN supports engineering and manufacturing SMEs across the North East through peer-to-peer networks, practical business support, supply chain connections and industry advocacy. NWAA represents a significant share of the UK aerospace sector and supports businesses operating across aerospace, defence, space, security, advanced engineering and manufacturing.
Expanding opportunities for members
As part of the partnership, members of both organisations will be recognised as affiliated members, allowing them to attend member-only events at member rates and access a wider network of industry contacts.
The two organisations will also explore opportunities to collaborate on conferences, trade exhibitions, supply chain events and specialist showcases. This includes activity linked to EMCON, the North East’s premier engineering and manufacturing expo, alongside future aerospace, defence and space-focused initiatives.
For EMN members, the partnership will provide increased access to aerospace, defence and space sector opportunities, helping businesses build relationships with Tier 1 suppliers, OEMs and prime contractors while supporting diversification into new and emerging markets.
For NWAA members, the collaboration will strengthen engagement with the North East’s engineering and manufacturing community, offering greater visibility within the region and widening access to established programmes including SC21 and Watchtower.
Strengthening manufacturing networks across the North
Richard Bradley, Chair of EMN, said:
“This partnership is about creating practical, valuable connections for manufacturers across the North. By working with NWAA, we can help our members access new conversations, new markets and new opportunities in aerospace, defence and space, while continuing to champion the peer-led support and regional collaboration that sit at the heart of EMN.”
Paula Gill, CEO of NWAA, said:
“NWAA is committed to strengthening supply chains and creating opportunities for aerospace, defence and space businesses across the North. Working with EMN gives us a strong platform to connect with North East manufacturers, encourage cross-sector collaboration and support growth across a wider northern industrial base.”
Building a stronger Northern manufacturing ecosystem
Both organisations will continue to deliver their established services while working together to explore the longer-term potential of a wider Northern Networks Alliance, helping manufacturers collaborate across regions, sectors and supply chains.
