A North East-based football scouting company is getting national attention after receiving expert guidance from entrepreneur and Dragons’ Den star Deborah Meaden as part of a new business-focused mini-series launched by NESCAFÉ® in partnership with Nestlé Professional.
InScout Network, founded by Jamie Smith, is one of seven small businesses chosen to feature in Let’s Partner Up for Good — a three-part series designed to offer practical support to UK SMEs. The series aims to tackle common business challenges by offering tailored advice from leading experts on topics such as sustainability, workplace wellbeing, and business growth.
InScout Network, which specialises in scouting and recruitment services for both professional and grassroots football clubs, appeared in the second episode of the series, which focuses on improving wellbeing in the workplace. The episode sees Jamie Smith sit down with Deborah Meaden and NESCAFÉ® business specialists to discuss issues including company culture, mental health, self-care, and inclusivity in the workplace.
Speaking about one of the key challenges in the football industry — the uncertainty and short duration of careers — Deborah shared her insights into recognising when professionals may be struggling. “The ones with the relationship are probably going to be easier because you are going to spot what is not normal,” she explained. “It’s the language that is used — and not used — that tells me we’ve got an issue here.”
Jamie Smith was one of over 800 SME owners to apply for a spot on the show. Reflecting on his experience, he said: “We were delighted to be chosen to take part in the magnificent campaign Let’s Partner Up for Good. To work with such professionals throughout the day in a wonderful venue was something I will never forget. We’ve made some incredible connections and broadened our business plans far beyond what we initially imagined.”
The business, which provides player analysis and opposition reports to clubs at every level, is now looking forward to capitalising on the exposure and insight gained through the series. Jamie added: “We really look forward to the release of the film and hope that we can grow even more on the back of it. We would absolutely encourage anyone invited to do this — and we’d love to do it all again.”
The mini-series is part of NESCAFÉ®’s ongoing commitment to supporting small businesses through expert collaboration and meaningful partnerships. The full series is available to watch online, with each episode highlighting the real challenges and solutions faced by small business owners across the UK.
