How to Choose the Right Manufacturing Partner for Your Business

April 10, 2025

Selecting the right manufacturing partner is one of the most important decisions your business will make. Whether you’re creating custom products, scaling production, or pursuing government contracts, the right partner can save you time and money, plus deliver higher quality results. Here’s what to consider when evaluating a manufacturing partner and why AFORGE Advanced Manufacturing is the ideal choice.

Evaluate the Capabilities of Their Technology

The machinery and equipment your manufacturer uses are essential to ensuring a great outcome. Be sure to evaluate this partner against your speed, sizing, material, and logistics needs. At AFORGE, we leverage cutting-edge technology using the XACT Metal 200 Direct Metal Laser Sintering printer to yield our high-performance results.

Our XACT Metal 200 capabilities include rapid prototyping to make the process quick and seamless, lightweight durability while keeping material strength, and geometries that outweigh traditional manufacturing methods. Our capabilities go far beyond the average AM company, and we are prepared to walk clients through the process step-by-step. 

Find our capabilities statement here: AFORGE_Capabilities_Statement_V3.pdf

Ensure Security and Compliance

Security and compliance are extremely crucial, especially for industries like aerospace, defense, and government contracting. AFORGE operates a fully cleared facility that adheres to the highest U.S. government standards.

Our credentials include:

  • ITAR Compliance- Ensuring secure handling of sensitive and regulated designs.
  • ISO Certifications– Guaranteeing consistency across every project.
  • Full Facility Clearance– Allowing us to work on classified and high-security projects.

This level of compliance means your sensitive projects will be handled with the utmost confidentiality and professionalism from our team of cleared personnel.

Look for Proven Expertise

Certifications are important, but experience is what sets an AM partner apart. AFORGE brings years of expertise across several industries, from defense and aerospace to automotive and beyond. As a Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB), we combine military precision with technical innovation to deliver superior results.

Our areas of expertise include customize metal and polymer parts for an array of applications, precision of tailored aerospace and defense standards, and quick prototyping and production. 

Customer Support and Flexibility

Great partners do more than produce parts; they work alongside you to meet your unique expectations. At AFORGE, we pride ourselves on our personalized approach and commitment to customer satisfaction.

We work closely with you to truly understand your vision, learn about your goals and challenges, and provide clear communication regarding project status to deliver quality solutions at the speed of need. We do whatever we can to get to ‘yes,’ even for the more ‘out-there’ requests.

Consider Cost Without Sacrificing Quality

Cost is always a factor. But, the cheapest option isn’t always the best. Instead, focus on value. What are you getting for your investment? With AFORGE, you get the perfect balance of affordability and quality. Our equipment and efficient processes allow us to deliver premium results while optimizing costs. From one small business to another, we know how critical a budget-friendly partnership can be. 

Why AFORGE Is the Right Choice

When you choose AFORGE Advanced Manufacturing, you’re partnering with a team that prioritizes precision, security, and customer success. 

  • State-of-the-Art Technology: Our Xact Metal 200 machinery delivers unmatched precision and efficiency.
  • Certified and Cleared: Fully compliant with government security protocols, including ITAR and ISO standards.
  • Proven Expertise: Trusted by clients across industries for high-quality, innovative solutions.
  • Veteran-Owned Excellence: As an SDVOSB, we bring discipline, integrity, and dedication to every project.
  • Made in the USA: Our World Headquarters is located in Lorton, VA.
  • Custom Solutions: From small-scale prototypes to large-scale production, we’ve got you covered. 

To discuss partnership opportunities, please contact our business development lead, Danny Vice, at Danny.Vice@AForge.US.

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