3d printing business plan

How To Start a 3D Printing Business & Which Sector To Choose

Written by: 3DSourced

February 20, 2024

Key Takeaways

• Know your 3D printing : Learn the basics of 3D printing technology, software, and materials.
• Create a business plan : Define your niche, target market, budget, revenue goals, and marketing strategy.
• Choose your 3D printer and supplies : Pick the best 3D printer for your needs, based on the type, quality, and cost of printing you want to offer.
• Sell your products or services : Decide whether you want to sell 3D printed items, 3D designs, 3D printing on demand, or 3D printing repair and maintenance. Find the best platform or channel to reach your customers.

In just a few short years, 3D printing has gone from “what’s that?” to “how can I get in on this?”

Why? Here are some key stats :

• The 3D printing market is predicted to grow 30% per year to 2026 .
• There are over 422,000 working 3D printers in the USA .
• The USA, UK, France, Germany & China are all heavily adopting 3D printing.

Continuing to explode in popularity for both hobbyists and industrial uses, budding entrepreneurs are looking for opportunities to start a 3D printing business. But what opportunities are there?

Honestly, there are so many industries being shaken up by 3D printing — medical, hearing aids , dental, metal part production, spacecraft , even food — that listing every potential use would take too long.

Some have already taken areas of 3D printing and made themselves synonymous with the sector. Wiivv and 3D printed custom sandals, Relativity Space and 3D printed rockets , and Sonova and 3D printed hearing aids. What will your 3D printing business be known for?

This article focuses on how to start a 3D printing business, which 3D printing businesses you could start, and what you need to be able to start and be successful in the 3D printing industry.

How to start a 3D printing business

Naturally, to start a 3D printing business you need to know everything there is to know about 3D printing. You’ll need to know your 3D printer — and the technology that powers it — in and out.  

• You can view all our 3D printing technologies guides here

Write your 3D printing business plan

Now you need to create a business plan. Though you feel you already know exactly what you need to do, it’s always best to get your thoughts down in writing, as well as any predictions around revenues, sales, and the amount you’re prepared to invest.

When writing this, think of what you will need to spend money on: potentially renting a location, buying new equipment, hiring or training people — and do you have any guaranteed income you can factor in, or are you starting from zero?

It’s very likely your 3D printing business plan will change dramatically as your business adapts and changes — and that’s fine! — but a business plan will get your future and present ideas down on paper. If you’re planning on lending money from a bank or other institution, a business plan is crucial.

Buying your equipment

If you haven’t chosen which 3D printer (or 3D printers if you’re planning on multiple), you’ll need to choose carefully based on what you plan to print, or what services you plan on offering. Prototypes are often made using SLS 3D printers , as well as MJF, PolyJet, FDM, and more.

For deciding which to buy, you can check out our guide to every type of 3D printer .

If you know what type of 3D printer you’re planning on using, but aren’t sure on which printer, you can check out our buyer’s guides:

• Our buyer’s guide for the best FDM 3D printers
• Buyer’s guide for the best resin 3D printers
• The best SLS 3D printers
• Our metal 3D printer buyer’s guide
• The best 3D printers for small businesses

3D printers don’t run themselves, so you’ll need to make sure you have the right software, including a 3D slicer such as Cura , and if you’re designing your own models, a 3D modeling software tool . If you’re managing multiple 3D printers, you may want to invest in software to manage them more easily.

For FDM 3D printing you’ll need a steady supply of filament in every material and color range you plan to offer. For more industrial printing you may want to offer Polycarbonate , HIPS , PEEK , Nylon and ASA , but for more standard jobs you may just need PETG , ABS and PLA . The same goes for resins for resin 3D printing for any planned uses, including castable for jewelry molds, and any powders for SLS.

Running costs & marketing costs

As well as this, you’ll need to factor in costs for replacing any parts of your 3D printer that wear out, such as nozzles , resin vats and so on. Electricity isn’t free , but shouldn’t be a major cost.  

If you’re planning on launching your own website or webstore, you’ll need to decide how you’ll accept payments, which cart software to use such as Shopify, or Woocommerce on WordPress, and which hosting provider to use.

For marketing, you can opt for social media ads across Facebook, Instagram, or PPC ads on Google for a quick buzz. You can also try to capture people’s attention through generally interesting social media content, such as showing your factory in action, some of the cool things you’ve 3D printed , or vlogging yourself at work. For industrial B2B clients, LinkedIn and direct outreach may be better options.

Where to sell your products

If you’re planning to sell your models on existing platforms like Etsy, Amazon or eBay, you’ll need to decide your plans for those. Or, you may decide to niche down and sell on specialized 3D model platforms. If you’re planning on acting as a service, signing up to Treatstock or Makexyz can save you marketing time and pair you directly with clients.

3D Printing Business Ideas: Which 3D printing business should I start?

A true visionary may want to create an entirely new category, like 3D printed rockets, pizza or hearing aids. Nevertheless, here are some tried and tested existing 3D printing business models:

Printing on demand

Do you already own a 3D printer? This is the easiest way to make money from 3D printing.

The business model is simple: you offer to print someone else’s 3D file. The only problem with this 3D printing business plan is that it’s already getting quite competitive, and your service is easily seen as a commodity. Fortunately, we’ve listed some tips for making it in printing on demand.

Sign up on one of the major 3D printing service marketplaces , or sell your service to individual companies outside of a marketplace.

• Establish yourself in a niche market – B2C

Instead of trying to please everyone, you need to find a tribe of loyal customers who see you as their trusted vendor. To find your ideal niche, do some market research by Googling your market, checking sites like Quora and Reddit, and reading blog posts.

Start on a marketplace and then expand beyond it when you have some experience and know which customers you want to attract.

Many creatives, nerds and designers just want their design, such as favorite D&D model or character, in front of them, right now — and they don’t want to buy an entire 3D printer just to print it. Instead, they’ll find someone to do the odd job for them here and there.

Starting a 3D printing business printing consumer models requires less start-up investment, less expensive filaments or resins, and perhaps slightly lower accuracy and precision requirements. More affordable desktop 3D printers will work here, so you could potentially get started as a 3D printing business for just a few hundred dollars with an Ender 3 or Prusa 3D printer .

That isn’t to say there aren’t jobs for individuals that require more industrial 3D printers . Classic car fans looking to get a car part 3D printed will require perfect accuracy and a tough material used, with the crisp surface finish only accessible on higher end machines. But for most consumer jobs, less professional 3D printers should suffice.

There are even marketplaces for local 3D printer service businesses that’ll help you find customers. Treatstock, for example, puts you in contact instantly with thousands of local 3D printer businesses to have your parts printed for you in a variety of different materials.

By becoming a vendor, you potentially skip the expensive marketing costs associated with drumming up business at the beginning of your 3D printing business journey. There are other similar sites to Treatstock like makexyz, but 3D Hubs no longer allow individuals to sign up and offer their printing services.

• Offer your service to B2B customers

Alternatively, you can offer your services directly to B2B customers. Typically, these customers tend to have deeper pockets, a more consistent need for 3D printing services, and they tend to place larger orders.

Start on a marketplace and as you grow, transition to your own brand or site. A successful business that uses this business model is  Stratasys , a company that’s active in the engineering, manufacturing, production, and prototyping industries.

Again you’ll want to establish a niche, I see far too many home-based 3D printing businesses try to appeal to everyone doing everything just to make money 3D printing. To really get penetration in the market in a sea of ‘me too’ businesses and franchises -you’ve got to target, accurately.

In B2B — business to business — 3D printing businesses make prototypes and other parts for companies that want to test them. This could be for shape and aesthetics, or functional testing based on how it holds up in certain situations.

Common client needs include architectural and interior design models (a huge advantage if you can print multiple colors, such as by using a Palette ), sunglasses and other fashion prototypes, engineering prototypes, resin, ceramic or metal prototypes for various industries, and medical parts, including orthotics, prosthetics and medical implants.

Your ability to run this kind of 3D printing business really depends on the 3D printers you have. With massively growing demand for metal 3D printing — predicted to grow to a $11 billion industry by 2024 — metal additive manufacturing for automotive, space, medical and other uses is a great area to launch.

However, metal 3D printers cost hundreds of thousands of dollars in most cases, so this is not a venture for anyone looking to get in cheap and make some beer money.

Standard affordable 3D printers may not offer the level of precision companies expect when they hire your 3D printing business to print parts and prototypes for them. And many companies may be looking for more expensive types of 3D printing for their parts, such as SLS 3D printers or even PolyJet .

Overall, if you’re planning on starting a B2B 3D printing business acting as a 3D printing services for industrial clients, you’ll probably need a large investment to start with. For marketing, social media and more hobbyist forms of marketing won’t work as well, so you’ll need to either harness PPC ads or grow your network within the industry to find contacts looking to get manufacturing done. But, with this big risk comes the potential for big reward.

Open up your own 3D printing e-commerce store

[Source:  AudioQuest ]

3D printing is already disrupting the manufacturing industry. That’s why now is the time to set up an e-commerce shop where you sell products that you design and print. 3D printing makes the whole process flexible and cheap. If you’re wanting to know how to make money with a 3D printer, this is one of our favorite 3D printing startup ideas. 

Before actually going all-in starting a 3d printer business, you could validate your idea by using crowdfunding sites like  Kickstarter  and  Indiegogo . You can sell your products by building a shop on  Shopify  and on  Amazon , NotOnTheHighStreet.com and Etsy.

• Jewelry, home furnishing, decorations and fashion

The design industry is the perfect industry if you want to open an e-commerce shop. There are lots of options here; jewelry, home furnishing, decorations and fashion. If you want to start small, Etsy is the perfect platform, because its customers crave individualized design.  NomaniFOLD  sells 3D printed jewelry and is a pioneer in this industry.

• Monthly subscription box

Monthly subscription boxes are insanely popular. Some of them are something of a trend, but others are a convenient way for people to get products delivered to them. But what if you could use this idea to 3D print monthly items that people need and want as a recurring service? For example, deliver toys or pet or baby products on a monthly basis.

• Events  

The event industry is massive. There’s everything from weddings, birthdays, graduation parties to company events and conferences. Tap into this market by printing event decorations and other products.

• Other products

With the ideas above, we’re just scratching the surface. There are so many 3D printing business opportunities you can explore!

Customized products

[Source:  Open Bionics ]

3D printing is changing the way we do business. No wonder; one of the main advantages of 3D printing is that it enables us to mass-customize products. Why not start a shop that’s all about customization? The possibilities for making money with 3D printing business opportunities are endless and this is an area with significant growth potential.

Use Kickstarter, Indiegogo, Etsy, Amazon, Ebay and Shopify to sell items.

You’ll need to price your models based on the amount of filament or resin they use, as well as the time value of your 3D printer’s time. In addition, since you’ve created real tangible models, posting them to your customers will cost money, too. This can vary wildly depending on whether your customer is in your city, or if they’re half way across the globe.

It’s safest to use your own files, as many models from free STL file sites may not authorize you to commercialize them. If you want to add even more value, you could even paint your models, making them stand out and letting you charge higher prices.

You’ll need to think about marketing for this type of 3D printing business. People are unlikely to just find your 3D printing shop unless you’re savvy about getting your name out there: either on social media, or by paid ads such as PPC on Google or Facebook ads. You’ll need to continually optimize any paid ads to make sure you’re selling enough products to make the ads profitable, and keep a beady eye on the data.

If successful however, it’s one of the most rewarding and independent ways to make it as a 3D printing business.

• Customized products  

There are no limitations here… mobile cases and covers, special parts that enable you to use items in different ways (e.g. toys), jewelry and so forth. For example, check out  Lantos Technologies , a company that prints customized in-ear products.

These 3D printed toys and similar models are always popular, and there will always be a demand for 3D character prints of peoples’ favorite video game or movie characters, musicians, actors and more. Cosplayers are always looking for new elements to use, too.

If you’re a good 3D designer — and if you want to learn, check out our ranking of the best free 3D modeling software tools for beginners — you can design your own creations harnessing your boundless creativity and signature style, or just create 3D models based on real people or things. You can then either sell these models and send them fully printed, or sell the STL file and let them print their own.

• Customized collectibles and figures

Fans LOVE customized collectibles and figures of their favorite athletes, artists and gamer avatars. Just make sure to check all licenses if you want to use this for your business. On the other hand, there’s a market for customized figures of people themselves, e.g. a figure of someone posing in his or her sports gear or their own gamer avatar.

For example,  CoKreeate  is a company that has successfully established itself in this market. Want to learn more about how to set up your own shop?  Here’s a story  that might inspire you.

Selling small items like this could be much easier if you’re wanting to set up a home-based 3D printing business. Lower storage and shipping costs for your home-factory business.

Read more: the best 3D printers for D&D miniatures

• Prosthetics

Prosthetics are expensive and difficult to manufacture. 3D printing is solving several problems in this industry. It makes prosthetics better, more customized and more affordable. Additionally, 3D printing is making it easier to manufacture wheelchairs and other support tools. Some companies that are producing prosthetics and support tools are  e-Nable  and  Open Bionics.

Read more: our feature story on 3D printed prosthetics

• Customized clothes

Typically, clothes are a mass market product. When you walk down the street, you’ll probably meet someone wearing the same item from the same chain. But thanks to 3D printing, it doesn’t have to be this way. 3D printing makes it easy to customize clothing. For example, a popular item that could be 3D printed and mass-customized are clog like foam shoes. One of the advantages of these shoes is that the foam forms itself to your feet. 3D printing enables you to improve this product.

Want to check out some successful companies in this space?  Kinematics dress  and  Continuum Fashion  are some of the companies that are already selling customized clothes and fashion related accessories. 

Read more: how 3D printed clothing is changing the world

Read more: 3D printed fashion: the latest trend

• Customized sports and hobby products

People spend a lot of money on sports and hobbies, and this is the perfect market for customized items. For example, you could sell customized tennis racket covers to teams or customized fishing and golfing gear .

Read more: our feature story on 3D printed shoes and sneakers

• Customized gifts

The best gifts are personal. The problem is that most customized gifts are expensive because they cost so much to manufacture. That’s why 3D printed customized gifts are the best choice; 3D printed customized gifts are affordable and flexible to print.

Read more: 3D printed gifts you can download and print today

• 3D printed photographs  

People love storing memories of their loved ones. A great idea for a 3D printing business is to create 3D printed family photographs. Many would love the possibility to store a model of their child, grandparent, pet or even a model of their house.

• Customized baby products

Naturally, most parents want the best for their babies and babies need different tools that fit them. By starting a business that customizes baby products, you tap into this lucrative market. Some of the companies that have noticed this are  Spuni , a company that prints spoons, and  Technologia Humana 3D , a company that prints 3D models of fetuses.

• Customized B2B products

Not all customized products are in the B2C space. Businesses want to stand out from their competition. You could 3D print customized furniture, signature decoration or other products and sell them to companies.

If you’ve got an eye for designs that’ll sell well online, such as miniatures , tabletop models and D&D-esque designs, this might be the route for you.  

Become a 3D printer reseller and expert

Most cheap 3D printers are bought from Amazon. They come with instructions to get you going, and normally have some form of tech support if you run into serious problems.  

However, with more complex professional and industrial 3D printers, installation, training and ongoing support may be required.

Resellers sell printers from major 3D printer manufacturers to domestic or local customers, and can provide all the required support and installation locally so the manufacturer doesn’t need to be involved.

To be a reseller, you’ll need to be an expert on every 3D printer made by the brand you’d be reselling, and may need to purchase one at full price first to fully understand it before becoming licensed and gaining access to wholesale rates.  

To find customers you’ll need a full understanding of the uses and applications of the particular 3D printers you sell, as well as likely buyer personas. The more industrial and expensive the 3D printers you sell, the smaller your potential client base will likely be.

Another variant of this is focusing on education and 3D printing in schools . Experts on 3D printing may be required to assist with either informing schools to install 3D printers, creating and teaching, or selling to educational establishments. However, check the regulatory rules for your country first.

Design 3D printing files

[Source:  History.com ]

Love design? Then designing 3D files and selling those designs might be one of the better 3d printing business ideas you’re looking for.

The setup is simple: create and sell designs that your customers can print with their own 3D printers.

Sell your designs on 3D file marketplaces like  MyMiniFactory ,  CG Trader , Shapeways or  i.Materialise  or create your own online store with Shopify or WordPress (via Woocommerce).

• Create designs for a niche market

Become the go-to person in a niche and sell designs on marketplaces. For example, you could provide designs in the home furnishing niche that companies can buy and use to sell their own prints.

• Create prototypes for companies

Another idea is to create prototype designs and sell them to companies. You’re not printing the designs, which means that you can scale faster.

It’s important to start in a specific niche. For example, say a medical company needs 3D prototypes. If you’re a 3D printing company specializing in medical prototype designs, it’s much more likely that you’ll land them as a client than if you produce generic designs.

• Create designs for museums, architects and interior designers

Typically, museums, architects, and interior designers need a lot of prototypes and other models. For example, History.com uses 3D printed Viking models in its  Vikings  project and architects need building models.

• Set up your own online store

If you don’t want to sell your designs on marketplaces, you can open a store with a service like Shopify. Sell designs that people can buy right away to use for their own businesses.

Full-Service 3D Design and 3D Printing Agency

Want to take it a step further and set up a shop that takes care of the entire process? With this business plan, your customers come in and talk about what they want you to print. Then, you design the product and print it.

Because the whole process can be quite expensive, you probably scale faster if you target B2B customers or those looking to get started with a new prototype. 

• Create prototypes for companies 

Companies need prototypes, and they can be very expensive. That’s why 3D printed prototypes are such a great alternative; they’re easier to produce, and they’re cheaper.

 2.   Design and print products for e-commerce stores

E-commerce companies need to find reliable factories overseas because it’s too expensive to manufacture products locally. As the factory is far away from where the company is based, there might be a range of problems; long production times, varying factory standards and long and costly delivery times.

Many times, e-commerce companies have to source more stock than they need to avoid running out of products. With your services, you can offer a flexible and affordable solution to these problems. By designing and printing products for e-commerce shops, you tap into a major pain point in the industry.

It’s important (and with any of the other business ideas listed here) that you don’t just see this as a way to profit from 3D printing. When starting a business like this, you want to make sure you’re really passionate about the quality or products and the service levels you want to deliver. Otherwise, it will show. 

Think about what types of aspects matter most to the types of companies that would want your services and tailor your business plan to address these concerns. Creating small batch production items for an e-commerce company will require a slightly different service than perhaps just creating initial one-off prototypes for new startups.   

• Create promotional goods

You know, promotional goods can be really powerful for a company’s marketing strategy. The only problem is that it’s expensive and difficult to find creative promotional goods if the company wants to go with something else than t-shirts. 3D printing doesn’t have the same restrictions, and that’s why your 3D printing service can solve this problem. Besides targeting the end user (companies), you might want to offer your services to ad agencies.

• Repair and maintenance

As the 3D printing industry grows, there will be a growing demand for reliable repair and maintenance services. Set up your own repair and maintenance shop and repair and maintain 3D printers and prints.

Overall, with massive industry growth — especially on the industrial side — additive manufacturing is very attractive area to be in. If you’ve got the risk-taking chops, business acumen and love and knowledge for 3D printing, and are willing to put the work in, who knows, perhaps you could be the next 3D printing billionaire!

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How to Start a 3D Printing Business in 14 Steps (In-Depth Guide)

Updated:   February 6, 2024

BusinessGuru.co is reader-supported. When you buy through links on my site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more

The 3D printing industry has experienced rapid growth over the last decade. According to a report by Grand View Research, the global 3D printing market size was valued at USD 13.84 billion in 2021 and is expected to expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 21.0% from 2022 to 2030.

As the technology becomes more accessible and affordable, 3D printing is transforming manufacturing and enabling businesses and consumers to create highly customized products on demand. From prototyping to finished parts production, 3D printing delivers advantages like complexity, customizability, and convenience that make it appealing across diverse industries.

This guide will help you learn how to start a 3D printing business. Topics include market research, sourcing an office and numerous other materials, marketing to attract customers, registering for an EIN, organizing business finances, and more.

1. Conduct 3D Printing Market Research

Market research provides insightful information into building a successful business. 3D printing services offer a new business venture into a wide array of industries, including the medical industry. Many businesses count on market research to identify potential customers and price existing products.

Some information you might learn through market research includes:

• Several factors are driving growth in 3D printing technology and applications.
• 3D printing enables rapid prototyping and cost-effective small-batch production.
• This allows companies to iterate and test designs faster. It also facilitates mass customization of products.
• 3D printing is being adopted across diverse industries like aerospace, automotive, healthcare, and consumer products.
• Advances in materials and printing techniques have expanded capabilities.
• The increased affordability and accessibility of desktop 3D printers have boosted adoption by small businesses, entrepreneurs, and hobbyists.
• The two major 3D printing technologies are stereolithography (SLA) and fused deposition modeling (FDM).
• SLA printers use photopolymers that are cured layer-by-layer by ultraviolet lasers.
• FDM printers extrude thermoplastic filament through a heated nozzle to build objects layer by layer. FDM is slower but printers are more affordable.

Several market segments present opportunities for 3D printing businesses:

• 3D printer sales – Desktop 3D printer sales account for over 60% of total market revenue. As prices drop, demand will grow from small businesses, education sector, and consumers.
• Materials – Photopolymers, thermoplastics like ABS and PLA, metal alloys, and composites are key consumables. Materials sales represent the second-largest revenue share.
• Custom parts manufacturing – Online 3D printing services allow customers to upload designs and get printed parts shipped. This on-demand manufacturing model is gaining traction.
• Software – CAD software, 3D scanners, and design apps complement hardware. Many companies now offer bundled solutions.

The Asia Pacific region is predicted to be the fastest-growing 3D printing market due to rapid industrialization and investments in manufacturing. North America and Europe are mature markets but still present opportunities in specialty niches.

2. Analyze the Competition

Understanding the competitive landscape is crucial for any new business, including in the 3D printing industry. When assessing competition for a potential 3D printing startup, analyze both local brick-and-mortar providers as well as larger online 3D printing services.

Some ways to seek out local competitors include:

• For local competition, search online directories and visit local small business hubs to identify companies offering 3D printing services in your geographic area.
• Analyze their websites and marketing materials to determine their specializations, technologies used, materials offered, and pricing structure.
• Visit their retail locations in person to evaluate customer service, and print quality, and get quotes for sample projects. Check what sort of 3D printing products they offer (e.g. statuettes, cups, mugs , custom designs, etc.)
• Browse their range of printing technologies, materials, and applications to understand their capabilities.
• Upload test designs to get price quotes for comparison.
• Study their website copy, marketing assets, and search rankings to assess their SEO and digital marketing prowess.
• Monitoring their social media engagement can also provide insights into their customer base and brand positioning.

Analyze competitors across criteria including capabilities, technologies, materials, turnaround time, pricing, quality, customer service, and brand reputation. Identify potential gaps or consumer pain points not being addressed effectively.

3. Costs to Start a 3D Printing Business

When launching a 3D printing business, carefully estimating and budgeting for both initial start-up costs as well as ongoing operational expenses is crucial. This will allow you to realistically assess the required capital and run rate to sustain and grow the business.

Start-Up Costs

• Business registration fees – $50-$500 depending on business structure
• 3D printers – For a basic start-up with 1-2 desktop FDM printers, estimate $4,000-$10,000. For higher capacity with industrial SLA printers, budget $60,000-$150,000.
• Materials and supplies – An initial inventory of filament, resins, printer beds, etc. may cost $2,000-$5,000.
• Software – CAD programs, printer operating software, and other design apps can cost $300-$2,000.
• Computer hardware – Desktops or workstations for design and printing, estimate $2,000-$4,000.
• Printer maintenance tools – Calibration kits, nozzles, etc. may cost $500-$1,000.
• Facility – Renting retail/workshop space or buying depending on needs. Budget $2,000-$10,000 for remodels, electrical, etc.
• Marketing – Website development, branding, and signage around $5,000-$10,000 for initial brand establishment.
• Legal/consulting – Lawyers and advisors for contracts, IP, etc. $1,000-$5,000.
• Insurance – Product liability and other coverage $1,000-$5,000.
• Staff – Potentially hiring first employees, estimate $40,000-$80,000 for part-time or full-time staff.
• Working capital – Extra buffer of $10,000-$20,000 for unforeseen expenses.

Ongoing Costs

• Rent and utilities – If leasing space, budget $2,000-$10,000 monthly.
• Salaries – Payroll expenses especially with added staff, estimate $4,000-$15,000 monthly.
• Material costs – Ongoing purchase of printing materials likely $1,000-$5,000 monthly.
• Maintenance – Printer upkeep, parts replacement, around $500-$2,000 monthly.
• Marketing – SEO, Google Ads, trade shows, etc. $2,000-$5,000 monthly.
• Insurance – Yearly premiums $5,000-$20,000.
• Software subscriptions – For design programs, ERP, CRM, estimate $100-$500 monthly.
• Professional services – Accountants, lawyers, and consultants budget $500-$2,000 monthly.
• Miscellaneous – Admin, office supplies, printing, utilities around $500-$1,000 monthly.

Carefully estimating both the upfront investment required, as well as the ongoing overhead enables the creation of a realistic financial plan and secures the capital necessary to start and sustainably grow a 3D printing business.

4. Form a Legal Business Entity

When starting a 3D printing business, choosing the right legal structure is an important decision impacting liability, taxes, and ease of operations. The main options are:

Sole Proprietorship

Simplest structure with no formal registration. The owner has unlimited personal liability for debts and lawsuits. Income is taxed only once personally. Minimal compliance needs but difficult to raise investment capital for growth. Not ideal for a 3D printing business due to product liability risks.

Partnership

Two or more co-owners share control and liability. Income is taxed personally for each partner. Still risky liability for 3D printed products. Allows the pooling of resources but can lack stability if partners disagree.

Limited Liability Company (LLC)

LLCs limit owner liability and combine pass-through taxation with the liability protections of a corporation. Owners have flexibility in the management structure. Easy to add new members/investors. Recommended structure for 3D printing startups as it shields personal assets from lawsuits while allowing business growth. Allows tax-deductible operating losses.

Corporation

Separate legal entity distinct from owners. Owners are only liable up to their investment. Difficult to establish a small 3D printing business and administration is complex. Subject to double taxation on corporate income and dividends. Difficult to attract early-stage investment compared to an LLC.

5. Register Your Business For Taxes

An Employer Identification Number (EIN) is a unique nine-digit number assigned by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to business entities operating in the United States. An EIN is essentially the business equivalent of a social security number and is required for many key business activities.

As soon as you start a business, including a 3D printing startup, you should apply for an EIN even if you do not plan to hire employees. An EIN is required to open business bank accounts, apply for business licenses and permits, file taxes, hire employees later on, and more.

The IRS offers two methods to get your EIN instantly:

Online Application:

• Go to the IRS EIN Assistant: Apply for an EIN Online
• Answer questions about your business structure, activities, and ownership details.
• Provide your personal information such as name, SSN, and address.
• Get your EIN issued immediately after submitting the form.

You can also complete and mail/fax Form SS-4. It takes 4 weeks to receive your EIN compared to instant online.

There is no fee to obtain an EIN. Once received, be sure to register for any required state/local licenses and sales tax permits. With your EIN, you can take key steps to forming and operating your 3D printing business properly and legally.

6. Setup Your Accounting

Proper accounting is crucial for 3D printing businesses to track finances, comply with taxes, and establish credibility. With multiple revenue streams from printer/material sales and custom print orders, clear bookkeeping provides clarity.

Accounting Software

Using small business accounting software like QuickBooks can automate recording income, and expenses, account reconciliation, and generating financial statements. QuickBooks seamlessly integrates with business bank/credit card accounts. For 3D printing businesses, it can track inventory, billable job hours, sales tax calculations, and run profitability reports on your various products and services.

Hire an Accountant

Hiring an accountant provides expertise in recording transactions properly in accounting software, as well as advising on financial strategy and tax compliance. Expect to pay $150-$200 per month for basic bookkeeping and assistance using accounting software up to $1,000 or more monthly for comprehensive financial services.

Open a Business Bank Account and Credit Card

Keeping business and personal finances completely separate is essential. Open a dedicated business checking account and credit card solely for your 3D printing company’s income and expenses. Never co-mingle funds.

For credit cards, business accounts don’t use your credit score but rather the business’ details. Expect lower limits initially but responsible use builds business credit. Apply through your bank or companies like American Express.

7. Obtain Licenses and Permits

Before opening your 3D printing business, be sure to obtain all the necessary licenses and permits. Find federal license requirements through the U.S. Small Business Administration . The SBA also offers state license requirements through its local search tool.

Business License

Most cities and counties require all businesses to register for a general business license, for which fees range from $25 to several hundred dollars annually. This basic permit allows you to legally operate within that jurisdiction.

• Zoning Permits: If you will run your 3D printing business out of a commercial location, confirm the property is properly zoned for manufacturing/retail activities and acquire relevant zoning permits. Expect to pay $100-$500.
• Building Permits: Before any leasehold improvements on a space, you need permits for electrical, HVAC, plumbing, construction, renovations, signage, and more. Building permits help ensure compliance with safety codes and cost around $200-$500 each.
• Fire Safety Permits: If industrial printers/materials are involved, your local fire department may require permits for handling combustible chemicals/gases or operating certain equipment. Expect fees from $50-$150.
• Health Permits: For any food-safe or medical 3D printing, health permits for sanitation may be required. Varies by location but plans for $100-$300 in fees.
• Seller’s Permit: For manufacturing/retail sales, you may need a seller’s or resale permit for tax collection. Fees are usually minimal.

Doing due diligence to get proper certifications before opening your 3D printing business will ensure you operate legally and safely. Depending on your location and activities, work with local Small Business Development Centers to identify requirements.

8. Get Business Insurance

Having adequate business insurance is crucial for a 3D printing startup to mitigate risk. The right policies can protect against potentially company-ending scenarios.

For example, without coverage, a 3D printing business could be financially devastated by:

• A defective 3D printed product that causes injury and prompts a lawsuit.
• A malfunctioning industrial 3D printer that starts a fire damaging your leased facility.
• An employee injury from hazardous equipment opening up workers’ compensation claims.

Properly structured insurance policies transfer these risks to the insurer to keep the business solvent. Key coverages to consider include:

• General liability – Protects against bodily injury, property damage, and product liability claims.
• Commercial property – Safeguards your office, equipment, and inventory from events like fires, theft, and natural disasters.
• Professional liability – Shields against damages from design flaws in 3D printed products.
• Workers’ compensation – Covers medical and lost wage costs for job-related employee injuries.

The typical process for securing business insurance is:

• Research policy options and talk to brokers about your risks.
• Get quotes from providers like The Hartford .
• Purchase required coverage amounts to fully protect your business.
• Provide ongoing documentation at renewal periods.

With proper insurance, your 3D printing business can thrive and grow without fear of financial ruin from the inherent risks.

9. Create an Office Space

Securing an optimal office setup is important for 3D printing companies to conduct sales, production, and shipping efficiently. The right space depends on business activities and budget.

A home office is the most affordable option starting out. Spare rooms work to handle administrative tasks and design files. Meetings with clients can take place virtually or offsite. However, lack of separation between work and home can be challenging. And residential areas may prohibit operating production machinery.

Coworking spaces like WeWork provide affordable flexible offices starting around $300 per month. They offer amenities like meeting rooms, shared equipment, and networking. Coworking is great for the administrative and sales sides but likely not for operating industrial printers.

Renting a small warehouse or retail space provides around 500-1,500 sq ft for $1,000-$3,000 monthly. This accommodates production machinery, inventory, shipping, and a front-office area. An ideal option for active manufacturing and walk-in customers. Signage also boosts local awareness.

Leasing office suites in a commercial building starts around $2,000-$4,000 monthly for 500-1,500 sq ft. More professional than a warehouse but no production space. Best for established brands wanting a branded office presence to meet with clients.

Evaluate your business activities, production levels, customer traffic, and budget. A mix of home office, coworking, and retail production space can optimize cost and capabilities when starting out. As you grow, graduated upgrades to the workspace support scaling efficiently.

10. Source Your Equipment

Launching a 3D printing business requires acquiring key equipment like 3D printers, as well as ongoing printing materials and supplies. Here are the top options for sourcing these startup necessities:

For brand-new 3D printers, leading manufacturers include Ultimaker , Formlabs , MakerBot , and Prusa Research . Desktop FDM printers start around $300-$500 for basic models optimal for small jobs. High-precision industrial SLA printers range from $2,000-$6,000.

Buying Used

Significant cost savings can come from purchasing used equipment. Check industry forums like Buy-Sell-Trade as well as eBay, Craigslist, and Facebook Marketplace for deals on pre-owned printers and supplies. Be diligent in inspecting condition and quality before purchasing.

Renting can be ideal for testing or occasional large production jobs. Online services like 3D Hubs and MakeXYZ allow short-term printer rentals from local owners. Prices range from $10-$150+ per day depending on printer model, materials, and job specifics.

Leasing involves lower upfront costs and built-in maintenance/upgrades. Many 3D printer manufacturers like Stratasys and 3D Systems offer operating leases for 12-36 months. Monthly payments are $200-$1,500 depending on equipment capabilities.

11. Establish Your Brand Assets

Developing a strong brand identity is crucial for 3D printing companies to stand out and connect with customers. Carefully crafted visual assets promote recognition and trust.

Getting a Business Phone Number

A professional phone system like RingCentral makes it easy to establish a main business line with call routing, voicemail, etc. This provides a consistent contact number for all marketing.

Creating a Logo and Brand Assets

A logo encapsulates your brand identity. Consider an illustrative logo with graphics relevant to 3D printing that can resonate with tech-savvy customers. Use the logo across your website, signage, packaging, swag, and ads for consistency. Resources like Looka offer affordable DIY logo design.

Business Cards and Signage

Business cards featuring your logo, phone number, and website are essential for networking and sales. Office signage and vehicle wraps containing your brand elements boost local awareness. Order professional, durable cards and signs from Vistaprint .

Purchasing a Domain Name

Your domain name should match your company name and establish your web presence. Use .com over alternate extensions when available. Check name availability with Namecheap and buy for under $20/year.

Building a Website

Every 3D printing business needs a website to showcase products/services and attract leads. Build it yourself with a DIY site builder like Wix or hire a freelancer from Fiverr for customized site development. Make sure your website properly represents your brand.

12. Join Associations and Groups

Joining relevant local and online communities provides invaluable connections when starting a 3D printing business. These groups offer networking, advice, and growth opportunities.

Local Associations

Seek out regional 3D printing and manufacturing trade associations to join. Women in 3D Printing has local chapters supporting female entrepreneurs. Associations give access to seminars, discounts, job boards, and most importantly, networking with like-minded professionals.

Local Meetups

Attending local meetups and trade shows lets you demonstrate products, get feedback, and meet customers and partners. Sites like Meetup list events like maker faires, 3D printing expos, and tech mixers in your area. Bring samples and business cards and actively engage with attendees.

Facebook Groups

Facebook communities bring together 3D printing enthusiasts globally to discuss best practices. Join groups like 3D Printing or Prusa 3D Printing to ask questions and receive support.

13. How to Market a 3D Printing Business

Implementing ongoing marketing is essential for 3D printing companies to gain visibility and attract new customers. A multifaceted approach combining digital promotion, referrals, and select traditional tactics can yield results.

Personal Networking

Satisfied customers providing referrals and word-of-mouth endorsements are hugely impactful. Providing prompt service and premium-quality prints leads to customer loyalty. Consider offering a discount on future orders for any new customer they refer. This incentivizes sharing their great experience.

Digital Marketing

For digital marketing:

• Run Google Ads campaigns targeting those searching for terms like “3D printing services” in your area to drive site traffic.
• Promote beautiful product photos and satisfied customer reviews via social media advertising. Use targeted boosting to reach ideal demographics.
• Create YouTube tutorial videos demonstrating your 3D printing processes to build authority and get discovered.
• Guest blog for 3D printing websites to gain backlinks and position yourself as an expert.
• Send occasional email newsletters with service updates, promotions, and case studies.

Traditional Marketing

For traditional marketing:

• Design eye-catching flyers with service details and distribute them at local retailers, colleges, and community boards.
• Sponsor relevant events like tech conferences and maker fairs to connect with potential customers face-to-face.
• Run radio spots advertising your capabilities and competitive advantages during drive time slots.
• Place signage near high-traffic areas around your location to boost local awareness.
• Send direct mail postcards to businesses that could utilize your services for prototypes or parts production.

The most effective marketing combines select traditional tactics with robust digital activities focused on driving site traffic through relevant content, social media engagement, and paid promotions. Dedicate time and budget monthly to raise awareness and stay top of mind.

14. Focus on the Customer

Providing exceptional customer service needs to be a top priority when starting a 3D printing company. How you support customers directly impacts your referrals, reviews, and repeat business. Some ways to improve customer focus in 3D printing include:

• With 3D printing, customers trust you to accurately produce complex and customized products.
• Great service means communicating timelines, proactively updating customers on order status, and swiftly resolving any issues that arise.
• Going above and beyond on service pays dividends. For example, walk a customer through best practices for getting the most durability from their printed purchase.
• Provide design tweaks for improved printability when you notice an issue with their 3D model file.
• Superior service earns you raving fans.
• Satisfied customers validate you within their networks, generating referrals and word-of-mouth marketing. They leave glowing online reviews that build credibility.
• Alternatively, poor customer service prevents growth.
• Customers frustrated by long delays, lack of communication, or mistakes with their prints will quickly look elsewhere.

For 3D printing startups, devoting resources to customer support provides the best marketing possible. Developing expertise around your niche’s needs, transparent communication, and diligently resolving any problems leads to an army of advocates who help your business thrive.

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3D Printing Business Plan

Technology development has led to the development of the 3d printing industry. Using a unique or additive gum, 3d printers build incredible structures. 3d printers also make use of ceramic, glass, metal, and plastic. 3d printings are not only used for presentation but for a lot of things, so do you see an opportunity in starting your printing business?

Are you looking to start writing a business plan for your 3d printing business? Creating a business plan is essential to starting, growing, and securing funding for your business. We have prepared a 3d printing business plan template for you to help in start writing yours.

Free Business Plan Template

Download our free business plan template now and pave the way to success. Let’s turn your vision into an actionable strategy!

• Fill in the blanks – Outline
• Financial Tables

How to Write a 3d Business Plan?

Writing a 3d printing business plan is a crucial step toward the success of your business. Here are the key steps to consider when writing a business plan:

1. Executive Summary

An executive summary is the first section of the business plan intended to provide an overview of the whole business plan. Generally, it is written after the entire business plan is ready. Here are some components to add to your summary:

Start with a brief introduction:

Market opportunity:, mention your services:, management team:, financial highlights:, call to action:.

Ensure you keep your executive summary concise and clear, use simple language, and avoid jargon.

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2. Business Overview

Depending on what details of your business are essential, you’ll need different elements in your business overview . Still, there are some foundational elements like business name, legal structure, location, history, and mission statement that every business overview should include:

About the business:

Provide all the basic information about your business in this section like:

• The name of the printing business and the concept of 3d printing, for example, fused deposition modeling (FDM), stereolithography (SLA), digital light processing (DLP), electron beam melting (EMB), or providing 3d printing with some other method?
• Company structure of your 3d printing business whether it is a sole proprietorship, LLC, partnership firm, or some other.
• Location of your 3d printing store and the reason why you selected that place.

Mission statement:

Business history:, future goals:.

This section should provide an in-depth understanding of your printing business. Also, the business overview section should be engaging and precise.

3. Market Analysis

Market analysis provides a clear understanding of the market in which your printing business will run along with the target market, competitors, and growth opportunities. Your market analysis should contain the following essential components:

Target market:

Market size and growth potential:, competitive analysis:, market trends:, regulatory environment:.

Some additional tips for writing the market analysis section of your business plan:

• Use a variety of sources to gather data, including industry reports, market research studies, and surveys.
• Be specific and provide detailed information wherever possible.
• Include charts and graphs to help illustrate your key points.
• Keep your target audience in mind while writing the business plan

4. Products And Services

The product and services section of a printing house business plan should describe the specific services and products that will be offered to customers. To write this section should include the following:

List the services:

• Create a list of the services that your printing business will offer, which may include 3d scanning, printing, prototyping, 3d projects, presentations, or anything else you provide.
• Describe each service: For each service, provide a detailed description of what it entails, the time required, and the qualifications of the professionals who will provide the service.

Emphasize safety and quality:

Overall, a business plan’s product and services section should be detailed, informative, and customer-focused. By providing a clear and compelling description of your offerings, you can help potential investors and readers understand the value of your business.

5. Sales And Marketing Strategies

Writing the sales and marketing strategies section means a list of strategies you will use to attract and retain your clients. Here are some key points to include in your marketing plan:

Develop your unique selling proposition (USP):

Determine your pricing strategy:, marketing strategies:, sales strategies:, customer retention:.

Overall, the sales and marketing strategies section of your business plan should outline your plans to attract and retain customers and generate revenue. Be specific, realistic, and data-driven in your approach, and be prepared to adjust your strategies based on feedback and results.

6. Operations Plan

When writing the operations plan section, it’s important to consider the various aspects of your business operations. Here are the components to include in an operations plan:

Describe your 3d printing process:

Describe your supply chain:, customer satisfaction:.

By including these key elements in your operations plan section, you can create a comprehensive plan that outlines how you will run your 3d printing business.

7. Management Team

The management team section provides an overview of the individuals responsible for running the 3d printing business plan. This section should provide a detailed description of the experience and qualifications of each manager, as well as their responsibilities and roles.

Key managers:

Organizational structure:, compensation plan:, board of advisors:.

Describe the key personnel of your company and highlight why your business has the fittest team.

8. Financial Plan

When writing the financial plan section of a business plan, it’s important to provide a comprehensive overview of your financial projections for the first few years of your business.

Profit & loss statement:

Cash flow statement:, balance sheet:, break-even point:, financing needs:.

Remember to be realistic with your financial projections, and to provide supporting evidence for all of your estimates.

9. Appendix

When writing the appendix section, you should include any additional information that supports the main content of your plan. This may include financial statements, market research data, legal documents, and other relevant information.

• Include a table of contents for the appendix section to make it easy for readers to find specific information.
• Include financial statements such as income statements, balance sheets, and cash flow statements. These should be up-to-date and show your financial projections for at least the first three years of your business.
• Provide market research data, such as statistics on the size of the printing industry, consumer demographics, and trends in the industry.
• Include any legal documents such as permits, licenses, and contracts.
• Provide any additional documentation related to your business plans, such as marketing materials, product brochures, and operational procedures.
• Use clear headings and labels for each section of the appendix so that readers can easily find the information they need.

Remember, the appendix section of your 3d printing business should only include relevant and important information that supports the main content of your plan.

The Quickest Way to turn a Business Idea into a Business Plan

Fill-in-the-blanks and automatic financials make it easy.

This 3d printing business plan sample will provide an idea for writing a successful printing business plan, including all the essential components of your business.

After this, if you are still confused about how to write an investment-ready spa business plan to impress your audience, then download our 3d printing business plan pdf .

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Frequently asked questions, why do you need a 3d printing business plan.

A business plan is an essential tool for anyone looking to start or run a successful printing business. It helps clarify your business, secures funding, and identifies potential challenges while starting and growing your business.

Overall, a well-written plan can help you make informed decisions, which can contribute to the long-term success of your printing house.

How to get funding for your printing business?

There are several ways to get funding for your printing business, but one of the most efficient and speedy funding options is self-funding. Other options for funding are!

• Bank loan – You may apply for a loan in government or private banks.
• Small Business Administration (SBA) loan – SBA loans and schemes are available at affordable interest rates, so check the eligibility criteria before applying for it.
• Crowdfunding – The process of supporting a project or business by getting a lot of people to invest in your business, usually online.
• Angel investors – Getting funds from angel investors is one of the most sought options for startups.
• Venture capital – Venture capitalists will invest in your business in exchange for a percentage of shares, so this funding option is also viable.

Apart from all these options, there are small business grants available, check for the same in your location and you can apply for it.

Where to find business plan writers for your 3d printing business?

There are many business plan writers available, but no one knows your business and idea better than you, so we recommend you write your printing house business plan and outline your vision as you have in your mind.

What is the easiest way to write your 3d printing business plan?

A lot of research is necessary for writing a business plan, but you can write your plan most efficiently with the help of any 3d printing business plan example and edit it as per your need. You can also quickly finish your plan in just a few hours or less with the help of our business plan software.

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Upmetrics Team

Upmetrics is the #1 business planning software that helps entrepreneurs and business owners create investment-ready business plans using AI. We regularly share business planning insights on our blog. Check out the Upmetrics blog for such interesting reads. Read more

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3D Printing Business Plan Template & Guidebook

3D printing technology has been revolutionizing the way businesses create and manufacture products. But, if entrepreneurs want to enter this sector, they need to have a well-thought-out business plan. Fortunately, the #1 3D Printing Business Plan Template & Guidebook can provide the blueprint to make this new technology a part of their venture. Get the insights you need to create a successful 3D printing business with this comprehensive template and guidebook.

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• How to Start a Profitable 3D Printing Business [11 Steps]
• 10+ Best & Profitable 3D Printing Business Ideas [2023]
• 25 Catchy 3D Printing Business Names:
• List of the Best Marketing Ideas For Your 3D Printing Service:

How to Write a 3D Printing Business Plan in 7 Steps:

1. describe the purpose of your 3d printing business..

The first step to writing your business plan is to describe the purpose of your 3d printing business. This includes describing why you are starting this type of business, and what problems it will solve for customers. This is a quick way to get your mind thinking about the customers’ problems. It also helps you identify what makes your business different from others in its industry.

It also helps to include a vision statement so that readers can understand what type of company you want to build.

Here is an example of a purpose mission statement for a 3d printing business:

Our purpose at [3D Printing business name] is to provide cost-effective, high-quality 3D printing services to our customers, while continually investing in and innovating our 3D printing technology. We strive to create an environment of collaboration where our customers can work closely with our team of experts to develop the best possible 3D prints that meet their specific needs.

2. Products & Services Offered by Your 3D Printing Business.

The next step is to outline your products and services for your 3d printing business. 

When you think about the products and services that you offer, it's helpful to ask yourself the following questions:

• What is my business?
• What are the products and/or services that I offer?
• Why am I offering these particular products and/or services?
• How do I differentiate myself from competitors with similar offerings?
• How will I market my products and services?

You may want to do a comparison of your business plan against those of other competitors in the area, or even with online reviews. This way, you can find out what people like about them and what they don’t like, so that you can either improve upon their offerings or avoid doing so altogether.

3. Build a Creative Marketing Stratgey.

If you don't have a marketing plan for your 3d printing business, it's time to write one. Your marketing plan should be part of your business plan and be a roadmap to your goals. 

A good marketing plan for your 3d printing business includes the following elements:

Target market

• Who is your target market?
• What do these customers have in common?
• How many of them are there?
• How can you best reach them with your message or product?

Customer base 

• Who are your current customers? 
• Where did they come from (i.e., referrals)?
• How can their experience with your 3d printing business help make them repeat customers, consumers, visitors, subscribers, or advocates for other people in their network or industry who might also benefit from using this service, product, or brand?

Product or service description

• How does it work, what features does it have, and what are its benefits?
• Can anyone use this product or service regardless of age or gender?
• Can anyone visually see themselves using this product or service?
• How will they feel when they do so? If so, how long will the feeling last after purchasing (or trying) the product/service for the first time?

Competitive analysis

• Which companies are competing with yours today (and why)? 
• Which ones may enter into competition with yours tomorrow if they find out about it now through word-of-mouth advertising; social media networks; friends' recommendations; etc.)
• What specific advantages does each competitor offer over yours currently?

Marketing channels

• Which marketing channel do you intend to leverage to attract new customers?
• What is your estimated marketing budget needed?
• What is the projected cost to acquire a new customer?
• How many of your customers do you instead will return?

Form an LLC in your state!

4. Write Your Operational Plan.

Next, you'll need to build your operational plan. This section describes the type of business you'll be running, and includes the steps involved in your operations. 

In it, you should list:

• The equipment and facilities needed
• Who will be involved in the business (employees, contractors)
• Financial requirements for each step
• Milestones & KPIs
• Location of your business
• Zoning & permits required for the business

What equipment, supplies, or permits are needed to run a 3d printing business?

• 3D Printer(s)
• Computer and/or laptop
• Software for 3D modeling, printing and post-processing
• Various filaments for 3D printing
• Printer cleaning materials, solvents and lubricants
• Applicable business permits and licenses, for both local and state governments

5. Management & Organization of Your 3D Printing Business.

The second part of your 3d printing business plan is to develop a management and organization section.

This section will cover all of the following:

• How many employees you need in order to run your 3d printing business. This should include the roles they will play (for example, one person may be responsible for managing administrative duties while another might be in charge of customer service).
• The structure of your management team. The higher-ups like yourself should be able to delegate tasks through lower-level managers who are directly responsible for their given department (inventory and sales, etc.).
• How you’re going to make sure that everyone on board is doing their job well. You’ll want check-ins with employees regularly so they have time to ask questions or voice concerns if needed; this also gives you time to offer support where necessary while staying informed on how things are going within individual departments too!

6. 3D Printing Business Startup Expenses & Captial Needed.

This section should be broken down by month and year. If you are still in the planning stage of your business, it may be helpful to estimate how much money will be needed each month until you reach profitability.

Typically, expenses for your business can be broken into a few basic categories:

Startup Costs

Startup costs are typically the first expenses you will incur when beginning an enterprise. These include legal fees, accounting expenses, and other costs associated with getting your business off the ground. The amount of money needed to start a 3d printing business varies based on many different variables, but below are a few different types of startup costs for a 3d printing business.

Running & Operating Costs

Running costs refer to ongoing expenses related directly with operating your business over time like electricity bills or salaries paid out each month. These types of expenses will vary greatly depending on multiple variables such as location, team size, utility costs, etc.

Marketing & Sales Expenses

You should include any costs associated with marketing and sales, such as advertising and promotions, website design or maintenance. Also, consider any additional expenses that may be incurred if you decide to launch a new product or service line. For example, if your 3d printing business has an existing website that needs an upgrade in order to sell more products or services, then this should be listed here.

7. Financial Plan & Projections

A financial plan is an important part of any business plan, as it outlines how the business will generate revenue and profit, and how it will use that profit to grow and sustain itself. To devise a financial plan for your 3d printing business, you will need to consider a number of factors, including your start-up costs, operating costs, projected revenue, and expenses. 

Here are some steps you can follow to devise a financial plan for your 3d printing business plan:

• Determine your start-up costs: This will include the cost of purchasing or leasing the space where you will operate your business, as well as the cost of buying or leasing any equipment or supplies that you need to start the business.
• Estimate your operating costs: Operating costs will include utilities, such as electricity, gas, and water, as well as labor costs for employees, if any, and the cost of purchasing any materials or supplies that you will need to run your business.
• Project your revenue: To project your revenue, you will need to consider the number of customers you expect to have and the average amount they will spend on each visit. You can use this information to estimate how much money you will make from selling your products or services.
• Estimate your expenses: In addition to your operating costs, you will need to consider other expenses, such as insurance, marketing, and maintenance. You will also need to set aside money for taxes and other fees.
• Create a budget: Once you have estimated your start-up costs, operating costs, revenue, and expenses, you can use this information to create a budget for your business. This will help you to see how much money you will need to start the business, and how much profit you can expect to make.
• Develop a plan for using your profit: Finally, you will need to decide how you will use your profit to grow and sustain your business. This might include investing in new equipment, expanding the business, or saving for a rainy day.

Frequently Asked Questions About 3D Printing Business Plans:

Why do you need a business plan for a 3d printing business.

A business plan is a vital document that outlines the strategy, short and long-term goals, and plans of action for a business. It is essential for a 3D printing business because it provides the roadmap that can help the business achieve its desired goals. It explains how the 3D printing services will be marketed, what resources are needed to start and sustain the business, how customer needs will be met, and how profits will be generated. Ultimately, it serves as a blueprint for setting up and managing a successful 3D printing business.

Who should you ask for help with your 3d printing business plan?

It can be helpful to consult with an accountant, lawyer, and business consultant to help with developing a 3D printing business plan. Additionally, professional organizations like the 3D Printing Association can offer guidance and resources for developing a business plan for a 3D printing business.

Can you write a 3d printing business plan yourself?

While it is possible to write a 3D printing business plan yourself, it is not recommended unless you have expertise and experience in creating business plans. A business plan is an important document that requires extensive research, analysis and strategic thinking in order to be effective. It is best to work with a professional consultant or business coach who can provide guidance and assistance throughout the process.

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I'm Nick, co-founder of newfoundr.com, dedicated to helping aspiring entrepreneurs succeed. As a small business owner with over five years of experience, I have garnered valuable knowledge and insights across a diverse range of industries. My passion for entrepreneurship drives me to share my expertise with aspiring entrepreneurs, empowering them to turn their business dreams into reality.

Through meticulous research and firsthand experience, I uncover the essential steps, software, tools, and costs associated with launching and maintaining a successful business. By demystifying the complexities of entrepreneurship, I provide the guidance and support needed for others to embark on their journey with confidence.

From assessing market viability and formulating business plans to selecting the right technology and navigating the financial landscape, I am dedicated to helping fellow entrepreneurs overcome challenges and unlock their full potential. As a steadfast advocate for small business success, my mission is to pave the way for a new generation of innovative and driven entrepreneurs who are ready to make their mark on the world.

How to Start a 3D Printing Business

Starting a 3D printing business can be very profitable. With proper planning, execution and hard work, you can enjoy great success. Below you will learn the keys to launching a successful 3D printing business.

Importantly, a critical step in starting a 3D printing business is to complete your business plan. To help you out, you should download Growthink’s Ultimate Business Plan Template here .

Download our Ultimate Business Plan Template here

14 Steps To Start a 3D Printing Business :

• Choose the Name for Your 3D Printing Business
• Develop Your 3D Printing Business Plan
• Choose the Legal Structure for Your 3D Printing Business
• Secure Startup Funding for Your 3D Printing Business (If Needed)
• Secure a Location for Your Business
• Register Your 3D Printing Business with the IRS
• Open a Business Bank Account
• Get a Business Credit Card
• Get the Required Business Licenses and Permits
• Get Business Insurance for Your 3D Printing Business
• Buy or Lease the Right 3D Printing Business Equipment
• Develop Your 3D Printing Business Marketing Materials
• Purchase and Setup the Software Needed to Run Your 3D Printing Business
• Open for Business

1. Choose the Name for Your 3D Printing Business

The first step to starting a 3D printing business is to choose your business’ name.  

This is a very important choice since your company name is your brand and will last for the lifetime of your business. Ideally you choose a name that is meaningful and memorable. Here are some tips for choosing a name for your 3D printing business:

• Make sure the name is available . Check your desired name against trademark databases and your state’s list of registered business names to see if it’s available. Also check to see if a suitable domain name is available.
• Keep it simple . The best names are usually ones that are easy to remember, pronounce and spell.
• Think about marketing . Come up with a name that reflects the desired brand and/or focus of your new business venture.

2. Develop Your 3D Printing Business Plan

One of the most important steps in starting a 3D printing business is to develop your 3D printing business plan . The process of creating your plan ensures that you fully understand your market and your business strategy. The plan also provides you with a roadmap to follow and if needed, to present to funding sources to raise capital for your business.

Your business plan should include the following sections:

• Executive Summary – this section should summarize your entire business plan so readers can quickly understand the key details of your 3D printing business.
• Company Overview – this section tells the reader about the history of your 3D printing business and what type of 3D printing business you operate. For example, are you a service bureau, product manufacturer, or a print-on-demand service?
• Industry Analysis – here you will document key information about the 3D printing industry. Conduct market research and document how big the industry is and what trends are affecting it.
• Customer Analysis – in this section, you will document who your ideal or target customers are and their demographics. For example, how old are they? Where do they live? What do they find important when purchasing products or services like the ones you will offer?
• Competitive Analysis – here you will document the key direct and indirect competitors you will face and how you will build competitive advantage.
• Marketing Plan – your marketing plan should address the 4Ps: Product, Price, Promotions and Place.
• Product : Determine and document what products/services you will offer 
• Prices : Document the prices of your products/services
• Place : Where will your business be located and how will that location help you increase sales?
• Promotions : What promotional methods will you use to attract customers to your 3D printing business? For example, you might decide to use pay-per-click advertising, public relations, search engine optimization and/or social media marketing.
• Operations Plan – here you will determine the key processes you will need to run your day-to-day operations. You will also determine your staffing needs. Finally, in this section of your plan, you will create a projected growth timeline showing the milestones you hope to achieve in the coming years.
• Management Team – this section details the background of your company’s management team.
• Financial Plan – finally, the financial plan answers questions including the following:
• What startup costs will you incur?
• How will your 3D printing business make money?
• What are your projected sales and expenses for the next five years?
• Do you need to raise funding to launch your business?

Finish Your Business Plan Today!

3. choose the legal structure for your 3d printing business.

Next you need to choose a legal structure for your own business and register it and your business name with the Secretary of State in each state where you operate your business.

Below are the five most common legal structures:

1) Sole proprietorship

A sole proprietorship is a business entity in which the owner of the 3D printing business and the business are the same legal person. The owner of a sole proprietorship is responsible for all debts and obligations of the business. There are no formalities required to establish a sole proprietorship, and it is easy to set up and operate. The main advantage of a sole proprietorship is that it is simple and inexpensive to establish. The main disadvantage is that the owner is liable for all debts and obligations of the business.

2) Partnerships

A partnership is a legal structure that is popular among small business owners. It is an agreement between two or more people who want to start a 3D printing business together. The partners share in the profits and losses of the business. 

The advantages of a partnership are that it is easy to set up, and the partners share in the profits and losses of the business. The disadvantages of a partnership are that the partners are jointly liable for the debts of the business, and disagreements between partners can be difficult to resolve.

3) Limited Liability Company (LLC)

A limited liability company, or LLC, is a type of business entity that provides limited liability to its owners. This means that the owners of an LLC are not personally responsible for the debts and liabilities of the business. The advantages of an LLC for a 3D printing business include flexibility in management, pass-through taxation (avoids double taxation as explained below), and limited personal liability. The disadvantages of an LLC include lack of availability in some states and self-employment taxes.

4) C Corporation

A C Corporation is a business entity that is separate from its owners. It has its own tax ID and can have shareholders. The main advantage of a C Corporation for a 3D printing business is that it offers limited liability to its owners. This means that the owners are not personally responsible for the debts and liabilities of the business. The disadvantage is that C Corporations are subject to double taxation. This means that the corporation pays taxes on its profits, and the shareholders also pay taxes on their dividends.

5) S Corporation

An S Corporation is a type of corporation that provides its owners with limited liability protection and allows them to pass their business income through to their personal income tax returns, thus avoiding double taxation. There are several limitations on S Corporations including the number of shareholders they can have among others.

Once you register your 3D printing business, your state will send you your official “Articles of Incorporation.” You will need this among other documentation when establishing your banking account (see below). We recommend that you consult an attorney in determining which legal structure is best suited for your company.

4. Secure Startup Funding for Your 3D Printing Business (If Needed)

In developing your 3D printing business plan , you might have determined that you need to raise funding to launch your business. 

If so, the main sources of funding for a 3D printing business to consider are personal savings, family and friends, credit card financing, bank loans, crowdfunding and angel investors. Angel investors are individuals who provide capital to early-stage businesses. Angel investors typically will invest in a 3D printing business that they believe has high potential for growth.

5. Secure a Location for Your Business

There are a few things to consider when looking for a location for your 3D printing business. You’ll want to find a space large enough to accommodate your equipment. Additionally, the space should be in a convenient location for your customers. Another factor to consider is the cost of the rent. You’ll want to find an affordable location that offers the space and resources you need.

You may want to consider renting a space in an industrial park or business incubator, which can provide the resources to get your business up and running.

6. Register Your 3D Printing Business with the IRS

Next, you need to register your own business with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) which will result in the IRS issuing you an Employer Identification Number (EIN).

Most banks will require you to have an EIN in order to open up an account. In addition, in order to hire employees, you will need an EIN since that is how the IRS tracks your payroll tax payments.

Note that if you are a sole proprietor without employees, you generally do not need to get an EIN. Rather, you would use your social security number (instead of your EIN) as your taxpayer identification number.

7. Open a Business Bank Account

It is important to establish a bank account in your 3D printing business’ name. This process is fairly simple and involves the following steps:

• Identify and contact the bank you want to use
• Gather and present the required documents (generally include your company’s Articles of Incorporation, driver’s license or passport, and proof of address)
• Complete the bank’s application form and provide all relevant information
• Meet with a banker to discuss your business needs and establish a relationship with them

8. Get a Business Credit Card

You should get a business credit card for your 3D printing business to help you separate personal and business expenses.

You can either apply for a business credit card through your bank or apply for one through a credit card company.

When you’re applying for a business credit card, you’ll need to provide some information about your business. This includes the name of your business, the address of your business, and the type of business you’re running. You’ll also need to provide some information about yourself, including your name, Social Security number, and date of birth.

Once you’ve been approved for a business credit card, you’ll be able to use it to make purchases for your business. You can also use it to build your credit history which could be very important in securing loans and getting credit lines for your business in the future.

9. Get the Required Business Licenses and Permits

There are a few licenses and permits you will need to start a 3D printing business. You will need a business license, a trade name registration, and a sales tax permit. You may also need a zoning permit. Check with your local government to see if there are any other licenses or permits that you will need.

10. Get Business Insurance for Your 3D Printing Business

The type of insurance you need to operate a 3D printing business largely depends on the type of printing services you offer.

Some business insurance policies you should consider for your 3D printing business include:

• General liability insurance : This covers accidents and injuries that occur on your property. It also covers damages caused by your employees or products.
• Workers’ compensation insurance : If you have employees, this type of policy works with your general liability policy to protect against workplace injuries and accidents. It also covers medical expenses and lost wages.
• Commercial property insurance : This covers damage to your property caused by fire, theft, or vandalism.
• Business interruption insurance : This covers lost income and expenses if your business is forced to close due to a covered event.
• Professional liability insurance : This protects your business against claims of professional negligence.

Find an insurance agent, tell them about your business and its needs, and they will recommend policies that fit those needs. 

11. Buy or Lease the Right 3D Printing Business Equipment

To start a 3D printing business, you’ll need a 3D printer, filament, and a computer. The type of filament will depend on the material you want to print. There are many different types of filament available, so you can find one that matches your needs. You’ll also need a computer to design your prints.

12. Develop Your 3D Printing Business Marketing Materials

Marketing materials will be required to attract and retain customers to your 3D printing business.

The key marketing materials you will need are as follows:

• Logo : Spend some time developing a good logo for your 3D printing business. Your logo will be printed on company stationery, business cards, marketing materials and so forth. The right logo can increase customer trust and awareness of your brand.
• Website : Likewise, a professional 3D printing business website provides potential customers with information about the products and/or services you offer, your company’s history, and contact information. Importantly, remember that the look and feel of your own website will affect how customers perceive you.
• Social Media Accounts : establish social media accounts in your company’s name. Accounts on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and/or other social media networks will help customers and others find and interact with your 3D printing business.

13. Purchase and Setup the Software Needed to Run Your 3D Printing Business

The primary software you’ll need to run a 3D printing business is a Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software to help you design 3D prints. You’ll also need a slicing program, which takes your CAD designs and turns them into printing instructions for the 3D printer. You may also want to invest in some general business software such as customer relationship management (CRM) software, accounting software, and project management software.

14. Open for Business

You are now ready to open your 3D printing business. If you followed the steps above, you should be in a great position to build a successful business. Below are answers to frequently asked questions that might further help you.

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How to Start a 3D Printing Business FAQs

Is it hard to start a 3d printing business.

It is not hard to start a 3D printing business, but it does require 3d printing business ideas, planning, and knowledge on additive manufacturing technology . You'll need to invest in the right equipment and create a business plan that outlines your goals, strategies, and how you plan to make money. You'll also need to find customers and market your business. Luckily, there are many resources available to help you get started.

How can I start a 3D printing business with no experience?

There are a few things you can do to get started in the 3D printing business with no experience. You can research the latest technologies in the printing business and learn about the different types of 3D printers and materials available. You can also attend trade shows and networking events to learn more 3D printing business ideas, expand your skill set and meet potential customers and partners. Additionally, you can speak with experienced 3D printing business owners for guidance.

What type of 3D printing business is most profitable?

Medical 3D printing businesses are the most profitable type of 3D printing business. This is because there is a high demand for medical prosthetics and implants, which can be produced with 3D printers. Hospitals and clinics are always looking for new and innovative ways to improve their services, and 3D printing can aid in this improvement.

How much does it cost to start a 3D printing business?

To start a 3D printing business it will cost you between $10,000 and $50,000. This includes the cost of the 3D printer, the cost of materials, and the cost of labor. However, keep in mind that this is just a starting point and your costs may vary depending on the size and scope of your business.

What are the ongoing expenses for a 3D printing business?

The ongoing expenses for a 3D printing business can include things like filament, electricity, and labor costs. Filament is the material used to create 3D prints. It can be expensive depending on the quality and type. Electricity costs can also be high if many machines are running simultaneously. Labor costs can add up if employees are needed to help run the business. It is important to factor in these ongoing expenses when starting a 3D printing business, so you can be prepared for the costs associated with running it.

How does a 3D printing business make money?

3D printing businesses make money by charging for their printing services. They also create and sell models of objects that have been printed using a 3D printer. Additionally, other businesses offer design services, where they will create a customized 3D model for a client based on their specifications.

Is a 3D printing business profitable?

Yes, 3D printing can be profitable because it is a quickly growing industry, with most businesses discovering opportunities for success. The technology is becoming popular, so there is a growing demand for 3D printing services. Local businesses are also becoming familiar with 3D printing. They are increasingly looking to use it for rapid prototyping of custom made tools and small-scale manufacturing at a reasonable cost . It is cost effective and speeds up the production process in many businesses. This means there is a great potential for growth in the 3D printing industry, making it a profitable business venture.

Why do 3D printing businesses fail?

There are a number of reasons some 3D printing companies might fail. One reason is that many people still prefer the traditional manufacturing methods and there may not be a large enough market for it yet. Another reason is that the printers themselves are expensive to purchase, which can make it difficult for small businesses to compete. Additionally, the materials used for 3D printing can be expensive, which can further limit the appeal of this technology.

Other Helpful Business Plan Articles & Templates

Explore 3d Print

3d printing business: a comprehensive guide to starting and thriving in the industry.

Hey fellow 3D printing enthusiasts! Ever thought of turning your passion into profit? Dive in as we explore the exhilarating world of the 3D printing business .

1. The Rise of 3D Printing in Business

From hobbyists’ garages to the global market, 3D printing has exploded in popularity. With rapid technological advancements and the potential to transform industries, it’s no wonder entrepreneurs are keen to jump aboard.

2. Why Start a 3D Printing Business?

3D printing, also known as additive manufacturing, is revolutionizing the way we create and produce objects. This innovative technology offers a plethora of advantages, making a 3D printing business an attractive venture in today’s market. Here’s a deeper look into why embarking on a 3D printing business could be a smart move:

Unmatched Flexibility in Design and Production

• Rapid Prototyping : 3D printing allows for quick and cost-effective production of prototypes. Businesses can iterate designs faster, test more thoroughly, and bring products to market quicker than ever before.
• Complex Geometries Made Simple : Traditional manufacturing methods often struggle with complex designs. 3D printing excels in creating intricate and detailed objects that would otherwise be impossible or too expensive to produce.

Personalization at Its Peak

• Customization : One of the most significant advantages of 3D printing is the ability to customize products. Whether it’s tailor-made medical implants or personalized consumer products, 3D printing can cater to specific needs and preferences of individual customers.
• Niche Markets : This technology opens up opportunities in niche markets. From bespoke jewelry to custom automotive parts, businesses can target specific segments with unique offerings.

Speed: From Concept to Reality

• Reduced Time-to-Market : The speed at which 3D printing can turn a concept into a physical object is unparalleled. This rapid production capability significantly shortens the time-to-market for new products.
• On-Demand Manufacturing : With 3D printing, businesses can produce on demand, reducing the need for large inventories and storage space. This not only saves costs but also allows for quicker response to market trends and customer demands.

Cost-Effective and Environmentally Friendly

• Reduced Waste : Traditional manufacturing often involves cutting away material, leading to significant waste. 3D printing adds material layer by layer, minimizing waste and promoting sustainable practices.
• Lower Overhead Costs : Setting up a 3D printing operation generally requires less space and fewer employees compared to traditional manufacturing setups. This leads to lower overhead costs, making it an accessible option for startups and small businesses.

Accessibility and Technological Advancement

• Growing Accessibility : As 3D printing technology advances, the cost of printers and materials is decreasing, making it more accessible than ever. This democratization of technology paves the way for innovation and creativity.
• Continuous Innovation : The field of 3D printing is constantly evolving, with new materials and techniques being developed regularly. This ensures that businesses in this sector stay at the forefront of technological advancement.

3. Niche Opportunities in 3D Printing

There’s a plethora of opportunities waiting for you. Let’s dive deeper.

Prototyping Services

In the dynamic world of startups and innovation, prototyping services play a pivotal role. As an essential element in the development and pitching of new product ideas, these services offer startups and inventors the opportunity to bring their visions to life. Here’s an in-depth look at how a 3D printing business can maximize its impact in prototyping services:

Understanding the Essence of Prototyping

• Beyond Object Creation : Prototyping in the 3D printing realm transcends mere object creation. It’s about materializing an idea into a tangible form, allowing for a comprehensive evaluation of design, functionality, and viability.
• Rapid Development and Iteration : Speed is a game-changer in prototyping. The ability to quickly produce, assess, and refine a prototype can significantly accelerate the development process, making it a valuable tool for startups eager to present their products to investors or enter the market.

Proficiency in Advanced Software and Design

• Software Mastery : Familiarity with top-tier design software such as AutoCAD , Tinkercad , and Blender is paramount. Choosing the right software depends on the complexity of the designs and the specific needs of the targeted industry.
• Continuous Skill Enhancement : The 3D printing landscape is ever-evolving. Staying updated with the latest software developments and design techniques is essential for maintaining a competitive edge and delivering high-quality prototypes.

Building Collaborations and Networks

• Engaging with Startups and Inventors : Establishing connections with local startup incubators, participating in innovation events, and conducting workshops can open doors to new collaborations and opportunities.
• Understanding Client Needs : Active engagement with clients helps in understanding their specific needs, challenges, and goals. This client-centric approach ensures the development of prototypes that accurately reflect their vision and requirements.

Specializing in Target Industries

• Industry-Specific Prototyping : Different industries have varying prototype requirements. For instance, the automotive sector might prioritize functional prototypes for testing parts, while the consumer goods industry might focus more on the aesthetic and ergonomic aspects of a design.
• Customized Solutions : Tailoring services to meet the unique demands of each industry is crucial. This involves not only understanding the technical requirements but also the market trends and consumer expectations within those sectors.

Customized Merchandise

Customized merchandise represents a significant opportunity in the current market, where personalization and uniqueness are highly valued by consumers. From crafting personalized jewelry to creating bespoke home decor, the possibilities are endless in this niche. Here’s an in-depth exploration of how to effectively tap into the world of customized merchandise:

Embracing the Power of Personalization

• Sentimental Value : Customized items, be it jewelry , keychains, or home décor, are not just products; they are personal statements. They hold a sentimental value that mass-produced items cannot match, making them highly desirable.
• Unique Experiences : The shift from mass production to personalized creation reflects a broader trend in consumer preferences. People are increasingly seeking products that reflect their personal style, story, or values.

Effective Marketing and Showcasing Strategies

• Leveraging Social Media : Platforms like Instagram and Pinterest are visual-centric and ideal for showcasing customized merchandise. Regular posting of high-quality images and engaging stories can attract and retain customer interest.
• Influencer Collaborations : Partnering with influencers can amplify your reach. Influencers can showcase your products in a real-world context, making them more relatable and desirable to potential customers.

Identifying and Capitalizing on Trending Items

• Trend Awareness : Staying abreast of market trends is crucial. This involves understanding changing consumer preferences, seasonal demands, and emerging styles.
• Adapting to Market Needs : For example, during festive seasons, items like personalized ornaments may become popular. Similarly, with the increasing trend of home offices, customized desk organizers, or unique home office accessories might see increased demand.

Expanding the Product Range

• Diverse Offerings : Consider expanding beyond the typical items. Think personalized pet accessories, custom kitchenware, or even 3D printed furniture pieces.
• Customer Engagement : Engage with your customer base for feedback and ideas. This not only helps in creating products that resonate with your audience but also fosters a sense of community and loyalty.

Streamlining the Customization Process

• User-Friendly Customization Tools : Implement easy-to-use online tools that allow customers to customize their products. This enhances user experience and can lead to higher conversion rates.
• Efficient Production and Fulfillment : Ensure that your production and fulfillment processes are streamlined to handle customized orders efficiently without significant delays.

Medical Equipment and Prosthetics

The integration of 3D printing in the medical field represents a groundbreaking shift, offering unparalleled opportunities to enhance patient care with tailored prosthetics and medical equipment. Let’s delve into the critical aspects of this emerging sector, underscoring its potential to change lives:

The Emergence of Medical 3D Printing

• Innovative Applications : The scope of 3D printing in medicine is vast and growing. It encompasses the creation of custom hearing aids, dental implants, and even complex structures like bone replacements and organ models for surgical planning.
• Advancing Healthcare : This technology is not just revolutionizing the way medical devices are manufactured; it’s also opening doors to new treatment possibilities, potentially reducing recovery times and improving patient outcomes.

Navigating the Regulatory Landscape

• Understanding Compliance : The medical industry is subject to stringent regulations. It’s crucial to understand the certifications and approvals required for medical devices in your region.
• Legal Collaboration : Partnering with legal advisors who specialize in medical regulations can help ensure that your products comply with health and safety standards, avoiding costly legal complications.

Building Strategic Partnerships

• Collaboration with Medical Experts : Form alliances with medical professionals, such as doctors, surgeons, and prosthetists . Their insights are invaluable in understanding the specific needs and requirements of medical devices.
• Ensuring Quality and Safety : Medical professionals can guide the development process to ensure that the final products are not only innovative but also safe, effective, and meet the highest medical standards.

Personalizing Prosthetics: A New Frontier

• Customized Fit and Design : One of the most significant advantages of 3D printing in prosthetics is the ability to create devices that are perfectly tailored to the individual’s anatomy. This personalized approach can lead to better comfort, functionality, and acceptance by the user.
• User-Centric Aesthetics : Beyond functionality, 3D printing allows for personalization in design – from color to shape and even incorporating personal designs. This aspect can be especially important for boosting the confidence and well-being of users, particularly children.

The Future of 3D Printed Medical Devices

• Continuous Innovation : The field of medical 3D printing is constantly evolving, with research and development paving the way for more advanced applications.
• Expanding Reach and Accessibility : As technology becomes more accessible, the potential for 3D printed medical devices to reach underserved communities increases, offering hope for improved healthcare solutions globally.

Architectural Models

In the realm of architecture, 3D printed models are revolutionizing the way architects visualize and present their designs. These models serve as a crucial tool in the design process, offering a tangible representation of architectural ideas. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how 3D printing is shaping the future of architectural modeling:

Bringing Architectural Visions to Life

• Visualization of Concepts : 3D models are instrumental in transforming architects’ visions into physical forms. They provide a clear and detailed view of the proposed structures, allowing both architects and clients to better understand and evaluate the design.
• Enhancing Client Understanding and Approval : Detailed models aid in the decision-making process. They allow clients to visualize the final look of a project, making it easier to discuss changes and make informed decisions.

Specialized Software for Architectural Modeling

• Choosing the Right Tools : While general 3D printing software can be used, architectural modeling often requires more specialized software like Rhino , Revit , or SketchUp . These tools offer advanced features tailored for architectural design.
• Software Proficiency : Gaining expertise in these specialized software tools is crucial. They enable the creation of highly detailed and accurate models that truly represent the architect’s vision.

Fostering Effective Collaboration with Architects

• Understanding Client Needs : To build lasting relationships with architects, it’s essential to understand their specific needs and requirements. This includes staying attuned to the style and scale of their projects .
• Communication and Adaptability : Regular meetings and open communication channels are vital. Being adaptable and responsive to changes and feedback ensures a collaborative and successful partnership.

Precision and Detail in Architectural Models

• Accuracy is Key : Architectural models require a high level of precision. This goes beyond getting the dimensions right; it involves accurately depicting every aspect of the design, from window patterns to landscape elements.
• Attention to Detail : The minutest details matter in architectural models. They bring the model to life, providing a realistic and comprehensive representation of the project. This level of detail is crucial for architects to convey their design intent effectively.

The Impact of 3D Printing in Architecture

• Speed and Efficiency : 3D printing offers a faster and more efficient way of producing architectural models compared to traditional methods.
• Customization and Flexibility : It allows for easy customization and alterations, making it possible to explore various design options and iterations quickly.
• Sustainability and Cost-Effectiveness : With less material waste and the ability to produce models in-house, 3D printing is a more sustainable and cost-effective solution for architectural modeling.

Educational Kits

In today’s educational landscape, where experiential learning is gaining momentum, 3D printed educational kits stand out as powerful tools for enhancing learning through tangible, interactive models. Here’s a detailed exploration of how these kits are reshaping educational experiences:

The Growing Importance of Educational Kits in Modern Learning

• Enhancing Experiential Learning : Educational kits have become essential in facilitating hands-on learning. They offer students the opportunity to interact with physical models, which can significantly enhance their understanding of complex concepts, from biology to engineering.
• Bridging Theory and Practice : These kits serve as a bridge between theoretical knowledge and practical application, making abstract concepts more concrete and easier to understand for learners of all ages.

Identifying and Catering to the Target Audience

• Beyond Traditional Classrooms : While schools are a primary market, the potential audience for these kits extends to hobbyists, homeschooling parents, and tutoring centers. These groups often seek unique and effective educational tools.
• Adapting to Diverse Learning Environments : The design and complexity of the kits can be tailored to suit different educational settings and age groups, making them versatile tools for a variety of learners.

Designing Curriculum-Aligned Educational Kits

• Alignment with Educational Standards : It’s crucial that the design of the educational kits aligns with current curriculum standards. This ensures that they are relevant and beneficial for educational purposes.
• Varied Educational Models : Kits can range from anatomical models for biology classes to mechanical parts for engineering students. The key is to create models that are both informative and engaging, enhancing the overall learning experience.

Establishing Collaborations and Conducting Workshops

• Partnering with Educational Institutions : Collaborating with schools and educational institutions can lead to mutually beneficial relationships. These partnerships can open doors to a broader market and provide valuable feedback for refining the kits.
• Workshop Opportunities : Offering workshops in educational settings not only promotes the educational kits but also educates teachers and students about the advantages of 3D printing in learning. These workshops can serve as an interactive platform for demonstrating the practical applications of the kits in a classroom setting.

The Advantages of 3D Printed Educational Kits

• Customization and Innovation : One of the significant benefits of 3D printed kits is the ability to customize and innovate. Kits can be tailored to specific educational needs or updated to reflect new scientific discoveries or curriculum changes.
• Interactivity and Engagement : These kits encourage interactive learning, which can lead to better engagement and retention of information among students. By providing a hands-on experience, they make learning more dynamic and enjoyable.

Sustainability and Accessibility

• Eco-friendly Materials : 3D printing offers the advantage of using sustainable materials, aligning with the growing emphasis on environmental consciousness in education.
• Accessibility for All : The relative affordability and adaptability of 3D printing technology make these educational kits accessible to a wider range of educational institutions, including those with limited resources.

4. Laying the Foundation for a Successful 3D Printing Business

Embarking on a journey in the 3D printing industry requires a strategic approach, right from understanding the market to making informed decisions about investments and skill development. Here’s a comprehensive guide on the preliminary steps to consider for establishing a successful 3D printing business.

Conducting Thorough Market Research

• Understanding the Competitive Landscape : Knowing your competition is crucial. Analyze their strengths, weaknesses, and market positioning to identify gaps that your business can fill.
• Identifying Potential Clients : Understand who your potential clients are. Are they businesses, individual consumers, educational institutions, or specific industries?
• Assessing Market Needs : Determine what the market needs. What are clients looking for? What are the current trends in 3D printing that you can capitalize on?

Making Smart Investments in Printers and Materials

• Choosing the Right Printer for Your Niche : Your choice of 3D printers should align with your business focus. Resin printers are suitable for detailed work like jewelry , while FDM printers are better for larger , structural models.
• Diverse Material Options : Familiarize yourself with the various materials available, such as PLA , ABS , nylon , and TPU . Each material has unique properties and suitable applications.
• Future-Proofing Your Investment : The 3D printing industry is rapidly evolving. Opt for equipment that can be upgraded over time or has good resale value.
• Balancing Cost and Quality : While budget constraints are real, prioritize quality and longevity in your equipment to ensure sustainable business growth.

Fostering Skill Development and Training

• Commitment to Continuous Learning : Stay updated with the latest trends, software updates, and material innovations. Continuous learning is key in a dynamic field like 3D printing.
• Collaborations for Advanced Training : Partner with 3D printing experts or educational institutions for specialized training. This can provide you with in-depth knowledge and practical skills.
• Hosting Workshops : Once you’ve gained expertise, consider offering workshops. This can be a great way to share your knowledge, establish your brand’s authority, and open up an additional revenue stream.
• Utilizing Online Learning Platforms : Platforms such as Udemy or Coursera offer a wealth of knowledge. They are resources for both learning new skills and contributing your expertise through course creation.

Business Planning and Strategy

• Developing a Business Plan : Outline your business goals, strategies, and financial projections. A solid business plan is crucial for guiding your business decisions and attracting potential investors or partners.
• Marketing and Brand Building : Develop a marketing strategy that highlights your unique selling propositions. Utilize digital marketing, social media, and networking to build your brand’s presence.

Legal and Ethical Considerations

• Understanding Legal Requirements : Be aware of the legal aspects of running a 3D printing business, including intellectual property rights, licensing, and industry-specific regulations.
• Ethical Manufacturing Practices : Commit to ethical practices in your operations. This includes responsible sourcing of materials and ensuring sustainability in your production processes.

5. Effective Strategies for Promoting Your 3D Printing Business

In the competitive landscape of the 3D printing industry, effectively promoting your business is crucial for success. From building a robust online presence to forging strategic partnerships and focusing on customer engagement, each aspect plays a vital role. Here’s an in-depth guide to effectively market and grow your 3D printing business.

Building a Strong Online Presence

• Website Essentials : Your website is often the first point of contact with potential clients. Ensure it is user-friendly, visually appealing, and informative. Highlight your services, showcase your portfolio, and provide easy contact options. SEO optimization is crucial to increase visibility for keywords related to your niche.
• Leveraging Social Media : Platforms like Instagram and Pinterest are ideal for showcasing the visual appeal of your 3D printed products . Engage your audience with regular posts, behind-the-scenes stories, and interactive content. Collaborations with influencers and other brands can broaden your reach.
• Active Participation in Online Communities : Engage with 3D printing enthusiasts and professionals on forums like Reddit’s r/3Dprinting or specialized Facebook groups. Sharing knowledge, answering questions, and participating in discussions can help in building a credible reputation.
• Content Marketing : Start a blog or a YouTube channel focused on 3D printing. Share tutorials, product reviews, industry insights, and success stories. This not only provides value to your audience but also positions you as an authority in the field.

Forming Strategic Partnerships and Collaborations

• Benefits of Partnerships : Collaborating with complementary businesses can open up new markets and opportunities. For example, partnering with a product design firm can be beneficial if your focus is on prototyping.
• Seeking the Right Partners : Identify potential partners whose business goals align with yours. A partnership should be mutually beneficial and help in expanding your service offerings.
• Joint Marketing Efforts : Co-hosting events, webinars, and promotional activities can maximize reach and minimize costs. Consider co-branding opportunities and package deals to attract a diverse customer base.
• Expanding Service Range through Collaboration : Partnerships can enable you to offer a broader range of services, tapping into your partners’ expertise without immediate investment in new technology or training.
• Managing Collaborative Relationships : Clearly define roles, responsibilities, and profit-sharing agreements to ensure smooth collaboration and prevent disputes.

Prioritizing Customer Engagement and Satisfaction

• Building Customer Trust : Establish a strong relationship with your clients by being transparent, responsive, and reliable. Trust is key in turning first-time clients into loyal customers.
• After-Sales Service : Providing excellent after-sales service is essential. Be proactive in addressing any issues or queries. This not only ensures customer satisfaction but also enhances your reputation through word-of-mouth referrals.
• Seeking Feedback : Regularly seek feedback from your clients. This can provide insights into areas for improvement and new opportunities for growth.

Utilizing Digital Marketing and SEO

• Targeted Digital Advertising : Use digital advertising platforms to target your specific audience. This can include pay-per-click advertising, social media ads, and targeted email campaigns.
• SEO Strategies : Optimize your website and content for search engines. Use relevant keywords, quality backlinks, and regular content updates to improve your search engine rankings.

6. Navigating Legal and Safety Considerations in the 3D Printing Business

Running a 3D printing business requires not just creativity and technical know-how, but also a thorough understanding of legal, safety, and environmental considerations. Ensuring compliance in these areas is crucial for sustainable and responsible business operations. Here’s a detailed guide on navigating these critical aspects.

Licensing and Regulatory Compliance

• Obtaining Necessary Licenses : Depending on your location, you may need specific licenses to operate 3D printers for commercial use. Stay informed about local business regulations and licensing requirements.
• Regular Legal Check-Ins : Regularly review and update your legal compliances, especially as laws and regulations can change.

Intellectual Property Rights and Copyrights

• Respecting Existing Copyrights : Be vigilant about copyright laws. Using someone else’s designs without permission can lead to legal issues. Always ensure that you have the right to print and sell any designs.
• Protecting Your Creations : If you create unique designs or products, consider securing your intellectual property rights through patents or copyrights to protect them from unauthorized reproduction.

Implementing Safety Protocols

• Understanding Printer Safety Risks : 3D printers , especially when operating at high temperatures, can pose risks such as burns or fire hazards. Implement safety protocols to mitigate these risks.
• Ensuring Proper Ventilation : Use well-ventilated spaces for printing, particularly when working with materials that emit fumes, to prevent inhalation hazards.
• Safety Certifications : Consider obtaining safety certifications for your equipment and workshop , ensuring they meet industry safety standards.

Embracing Environmental Responsibility

• Waste Management : 3D printing can generate waste from failed prints or leftover filaments. Implement recycling programs for used materials and explore eco-friendly printing options.
• Adopting Sustainable Practices : Choose materials and processes that are environmentally friendly. Minimizing waste and energy consumption can also be a selling point for environmentally conscious clients.

Drafting Clear Contractual Agreements

• Clear Client Contracts : For custom projects, ensure a written agreement is in place. This should detail the scope of work, costs, delivery timelines, and terms of post-sales support.
• Setting Expectations : Clearly communicate with clients to set realistic expectations regarding the final product, especially in terms of design, functionality, and durability.

Managing Liability and Insurance

• Insurance Coverage : Consider getting business insurance to cover potential risks like property damage, equipment failure, or liability claims.
• Product Liability : Understand your liability in case a product fails or causes harm. Ensure that your products meet all relevant standards and regulations.

Data Privacy and Security

• Protecting Client Information : In an age where digital data is vital, ensure that you have robust systems to protect your clients’ information, especially for custom orders that may involve sensitive designs.

Keeping Up with Industry Standards

• Staying Informed : Regularly update yourself on industry standards and best practices. This can involve participating in 3D printing forums, attending seminars, or subscribing to relevant publications.

7. The Future Potential of a 3D Printing Business

As technology advances, so will the horizons for your business. Stay passionate, innovative, and adaptive.

8. Conclusion

Venturing into the world of a 3D printing business is an exciting journey filled with endless possibilities. As we’ve explored, from prototyping to medical prosthetics, the applications are vast and the demand is continually growing. Yet, like any business, it comes with its unique challenges. Strategic partnerships, a robust online presence, continuous skill development, and a keen awareness of legal and safety protocols are pivotal for success. By staying informed, innovative, and customer-centric, your 3D printing business can not only thrive but also revolutionize industries. So, if you’re passionate about bringing ideas to tangible life and pushing the boundaries of innovation, the 3D printing realm awaits your expertise!

• What is the initial investment for a 3D printing business? It varies, but consider costs for printers , materials , licensing, and marketing.
• How can I stay updated with the latest in 3D printing? Attend workshops, webinars, and trade shows. Join online communities.
• How do I handle competition? Offer unique services, exceptional quality, and excellent customer service.
• What are the risks involved? Technology changes, market fluctuations, and maintaining consistent quality are challenges.
• Can I start from home? Absolutely! Many successful 3D printing businesses began as home operations. Just ensure you have the necessary space and tools.

I hope this guide propels your 3D printing business dreams into action. Here’s to creating, innovating, and succeeding!

• https://www.udemy.com/
• https://www.coursera.org/
• https://www.sketchup.com/
• https://www.blender.org/
• https://www.tinkercad.com/
• https://www.autodesk.com/
• https://www.rhino3d.com/

Catherine Reed

Hello! I'm Catherine, a passionate explorer of the innovative world of 3D printing. Over the years, I've delved deep into the intricacies of additive manufacturing, understanding both its vast potential and the nuances that come with it. On this website, I aim to share my experiences, insights, and the latest advancements in the field. Whether you're a fellow enthusiast or someone just starting your journey, I hope my work sparks your curiosity and inspires you to push the boundaries of what's possible!

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• 3D Printing Basics , 3D Printing Guide

How to Start a 3D Printing Business: Ultimate Guide

• August 17, 2023

Are you ready to dive into the world of 3D printing and start your own business? This ultimate guide has got you covered. From choosing the right printer to essential software, setting up your operation, marketing strategies, and tips for scaling and growing your business, we’ve gathered all the information you need to succeed. With low barriers to entry and a projected global market growth, now is the perfect time to make your mark in this industry. So grab a cup of coffee and let’s get started on this exciting journey!

Choosing the Right 3D Printer for Your Business

When starting a 3D printing business, you should research and choose the right 3D printer that suits your specific needs. There are several factors to consider when selecting a 3D printer for your business. First, think about the size of objects you plan to print and choose a printer with an appropriate build volume. Consider the resolution and accuracy required for your projects as well. Additionally, evaluate the type of materials the printer can handle, as different printers support different materials such as plastics, metals, or ceramics.

To evaluate different 3D printer models effectively, it is important to follow some best practices. Start by reading reviews and comparing specifications from reputable sources. Look for printers with good reliability and customer support. It’s also beneficial to attend trade shows or expos where you can see printers in action and ask questions directly to manufacturers.

Matching your business needs with the right printer involves considering various key considerations. Determine whether speed or quality is more important for your projects, as different printers excel in these areas differently. Also, factor in any specific technical requirements or compatibility with software you plan to use.

Essential Software for a Successful 3D Printing Business

To ensure success in your 3D printing venture, it’s important to choose the right software for your needs. When it comes to software for 3D printing, two popular options are Fusion 360 and Photoshop. Fusion 360, offered by Autodesk, provides comprehensive CAD and CAM capabilities. It allows you to design complex models and easily generate toolpaths for your 3D printer. On the other hand, Adobe Photoshop CC offers high-quality 3D modeling features, making it a great choice for those who are already familiar with the software.

Integrating CAD software with your 3D printer is crucial for a seamless workflow. By using compatible software, you can directly send your designs from the CAD program to the printer without any additional steps or conversions. This not only saves time but also ensures accuracy in the final printed product.

If cost is a concern for you, exploring open source software options can be a great solution. Open source programs like FreeCAD and Blender offer powerful functionalities at no cost. These programs have dedicated communities that provide support and regular updates.

Getting Started: Setting Up Your 3D Printing Operation

Setting up your 3D printing operation requires careful research and planning to ensure a smooth and successful start. Investing in training, acquiring necessary materials, and exploring funding options are crucial steps in the process.

Firstly, investing in training is essential to understand the technical aspects of operating a 3D printer. This can be done through online courses, workshops, or by hiring experts who can train you and your staff. Proper training will ensure that you can effectively utilize the capabilities of your 3D printer and produce high-quality prints.

Secondly, acquiring necessary materials is vital for your printing operation. Research different types of filaments or resins that are compatible with your printer and suitable for your target market. Consider factors like durability, flexibility, and cost when selecting materials.

Lastly, exploring funding options is important to secure the necessary capital for setting up your 3D printing business. Crowdfunding websites, accelerator programs, business incubators, and angel networks are potential sources of funding to consider. Create a solid business plan highlighting your unique selling proposition (USP) to attract potential investors or partners.

Strategies for Success: Marketing and Branding Your 3D Printing Business

Developing a strong brand identity and creating a professional website are crucial steps in effectively marketing your 3D printing business. To establish a strong online presence, it is important to develop a clear and cohesive brand identity that resonates with your target audience. This includes creating a compelling logo, choosing consistent colors and fonts, and crafting a unique value proposition that sets you apart from competitors.

Building customer relationships is another key aspect of successful marketing. Engage with your customers through social media platforms to foster two-way communication and gather valuable feedback. Regularly update your website with informative content such as blog posts or case studies to showcase your expertise and build trust with potential customers.

When it comes to pricing strategies, effective pricing can help position your business competitively in the market while maximizing profitability. Consider factors such as material costs, production time, overhead expenses, and desired profit margins when determining your pricing structure. Offering flexible pricing options like package deals or discounts for bulk orders can also attract more customers.

Scaling and Growing Your 3D Printing Business: Tips and Strategies

Invest in research and development to continuously improve your products and services, allowing for the scaling and growth of your 3D printing business. By investing in R&D, you can stay ahead of the competition and meet the evolving needs of your customers. Conduct market research and analysis to identify emerging trends, customer preferences, and untapped opportunities. This will help you make informed decisions when expanding your product line or entering new markets.

Additionally, consider exploring partnership opportunities with other businesses in related industries. Collaborating with strategic partners can provide access to new markets, distribution channels, and expertise that can accelerate your business growth. Look for complementary businesses that share a similar target audience or have complementary products or services.

To effectively scale and grow your 3D printing business, it is crucial to implement efficient production processes and workflows. Streamlining operations will enable you to increase output while maintaining high quality standards. Regularly evaluate your manufacturing processes to identify areas for improvement and cost-saving measures.

Lastly, stay informed about industry regulations and compliance requirements as they may change over time. Adapting to these changes promptly will ensure that you remain compliant while avoiding any potential legal issues.

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Home » Sample Business Plans » Technology

How to Write a 3D Printing Business Plan [Sample Template]

Are you about starting a 3D printing company? If YES, here is a complete sample 3D printing business plan template & feasibility report you can use for FREE . If you want to start a business that has potentials and that is sure to make you smile to the bank at all times, then you should be looking at delving into the 3D printing services business. This is a very practical business that is capable of making focused succeed at it.

One of the things that you have got to first of all determine is the willingness for you to go into this business. There after you will begin to do other underground businesses like undertaking a thorough feasibility studies, amongst other things. This business plan below will come in handy as you work at drawing and putting yours all together.

A Sample 3D Printing Business Plan Template

1. industry overview.

The printing industry is indeed a very large industry with many subsets and 3D printing and rapid prototyping is one of the active lines of business in the printing industry. Generally, establishments in the 3D Printing & Prototyping Services industry offer 3D printing and rapid prototyping services.

A 3D printing and prototyping service is the automatic construction of physical objects using additive manufacturing technology. The process include melting or softening material to produce layers, laying liquid material thermosets that are cured and cutting thin layers to shape that are then joined together.

The 3D Printing and Rapid Prototyping Services industry over time has experienced rapid growth and this is due to rapid technological advancements, falling costs and new uses for 3D printing technology. Going forward, the demand for 3D printing and rapid prototyping service and of course the revenue generated is projected to increase rapidly as 3D printing and rapid prototyping explodes in popularity and accessibility, especially in consumer markets.

The 3D Printing & Rapid Prototyping Services Industry is indeed a very large industry and pretty much active in all the parts of the world. Statistics has it that in the united states of America alone, there are about 151 registered and licensed 3D printing and rapid prototyping services companies responsible for employing about 3,814 and the industry rakes in a whooping sum of $492 million annually.

The industry is projected to enjoy 3.7 percent annual growth and the establishments with the dominant market share in the 3D printing and rapid prototyping industry are 3D System Inc. and Stratasys.

Research carried out by IBISWORLD shows that the 3D Printing and Rapid Prototyping Services industry exhibits moderate level capital intensity. The report shows that for every $1.00 spent on labor, the average industry operator is estimated to invest about $0.14 in capital equipment.

The average firm’s primary capital investment comes in the form of actual 3D printers. They also stated that printing service companies source these machines directly from 3D printer manufacturers. 3D printers and rapid prototyping equipment form the majority of a firm’s initial purchases and can be of great cost.

The report further states that, the industry wages are anticipated account for roughly 42.2 percent of revenue in 2015. This ratio may seem high; however, the industry’s employees are typically more skilled than other types of printing service related businesses.

If you are looking towards starting your own 3D printing and rapid prototyping services business, then you should endeavor to learn the trade. The truth is that the technology and processes involve in this line of business is one that will require a period of time (months) to learn.

Over and above, the 3D printing and rapid prototyping services industry is pretty much open to new entrepreneurs and investors to come in and build a successful business. But they must first and foremost ensure that they conduct thorough feasibility studies and market survey before situating the business in any location. This is very important because if this type of business is better located in an area that has available market for its services.

2. Executive Summary

Crop & Clip 3D Printing™, LLC is a U.S based and world – class 3D printing and rapid prototyping Services Company. We have been able to secure a standard and well – positioned office facility in a busy business district in Los Angeles – California.

We are a world class 3D printing and rapid prototyping company that is set to compete in the highly competitive 3D printing and rapid prototyping services industry not only in the United States market, but also in the global market.

Crop & Clip 3D Printing™, LLC will be involved in the all aspect of 3D printing and rapid prototyping  services such as3D printing rapid prototyping, 3D printing support services, selective laser sintering (SLS), fused deposition modeling (FDM), stereo lithography (SLA) and other related 3D printing and rapid prototyping services.

Our business goal is to become one of the leading 3D printing and rapid prototyping Services Company in the United States and we will make sure that every 3D printing and rapid prototyping jobs that leaves our printing press can favorable compete with the best in the industry.

Our workers are going to be selected from a pool of talented and highly creative 3D printers in and around Los Angeles – California and also from any part of the world as the business grows.

We will make sure that we take all the members of our workforce through the required trainings that will position them to meet the expectation of the company and to compete with leading 3D printing and rapid prototyping services companies in the United States and throughout the globe.

At Crop & Clip 3D Printing™, LLC our client’s best interest come first, and everything we do will be guided by our values and professional ethics. We will ensure that we hold ourselves accountable to the highest standards by delivering excellent and neat jobs and also meeting our client’s needs precisely and completely.

We will cultivate a working environment that provides a human, sustainable approach to earning a living, and living in our world, for our partners, employees and for our clients. Crop & Clip 3D Printing™, LLC is a private business that is owned and managed by Mr. Joseph Pascal and his immediate family members.

Joseph Pascal studied Printing Technology from Illinois Institute of Technology and he has well over 10 years of hands on experience working with one of the leading 3D printing and rapid prototyping services companies in the United States of America. He will be bringing his wealth of experience to grow Crop & Clip 3D Printing™, LLC to become a national brand.

3. Our Products and Services

Crop & Clip 3D Printing™, LLC was established with the aim of maximizing profits in the 3D Printing and Rapid Prototyping industry.

We want to compete favorably with the leading 3D printing and rapid prototyping companies in the United States of America which is why we have but in place a competent quality assurance team that will ensure that all our 3D printing and rapid prototyping services jobs and other related printing services rendered meet and even surpass our customers’ expectations and match – up with international best practices.

We will work hard to ensure that Crop & Clip 3D Printing™, LLC is not just accepted in Los Angeles – California but also nationally throughout the United States of America. Our service offerings are listed below;

• 3D printing
• Rapid prototyping
• 3D printing support services
• Selective laser sintering (SLS)
• Fused deposition modeling (FDM)
• Stereo lithography (SLA)
• The sale of 3D printers and supplies.
• Screen printing consulting and advisory services
• Other related printing services

4. Our Mission and Vision Statement

• Our vision is to establish a standard and world class 3D printing and rapid prototyping company whose services and brand will not only be accepted in Los Angeles – California but also throughout the United States of America, but also in other parts of the world.
• Our mission is to build a world class 3D printing and rapid prototyping company that will be known to execute top notch s3D printing and rapid prototyping projects and to become the number one choice for branding, advertising and promotion agencies and other stake holder in the industry.
• We want to build a 3D printing and rapid prototyping services company that can favorably compete with other leading brands in the industry.

Our Business Structure

Crop & Clip 3D Printing™, LLC is a 3D printing and rapid prototyping services company that intend starting small in Los Angeles – California, but hope to grow big in order to compete favorably with leading 3D printing and rapid prototyping companies in the industry both in the United States and on a global stage.

We are aware of the importance of building a solid business structure that can support the picture of the kind of world class business we want to own. This is why we are committed to only hire the best hands within our area of operations.

At Crop & Clip 3D Printing™, LLC, we will ensure that we hire people that are qualified, hardworking, creative, customer centric and are ready to work to help us build a prosperous business that will benefit all the stake holders (the owners, workforce, and customers).

As a matter of fact, profit-sharing arrangement will be made available to all our senior management staff and it will be based on their performance for a period of five years or more as agreed by the board of trustees of the company. In view of the above, we have decided to hire qualified and competent hands to occupy the following positions;

• Chief Executive Officer
• Creative Director
• Human Resources and Admin Manager
• Sales and Marketing Executive

3D Printing Machine Operators

Client Service Executive

5. Job Roles and Responsibilities

Chief Executive Officer – CEO:

• Increases management’s effectiveness by recruiting, selecting, orienting, training, coaching, counseling, and disciplining managers; communicating values, strategies, and objectives; assigning accountabilities; planning, monitoring, and appraising job results; developing incentives; developing a climate for offering information and opinions; providing educational opportunities.
• Responsible for providing direction for the business
• Creates, communicates and implements the organization’s vision, mission, and overall direction – i.e. lading the development and implementation of the overall organization’s strategy.
• Responsible for signing checks and documents on behalf of the company
• Evaluates the success of the organization

Creative Director:

• Serves as project manager of the organization; works directly with employees
• Responsible for designing and approving concepts for 3D printing of materials for client
• Develops strategic plan by studying technological and financial opportunities; presenting assumptions; recommending objectives.
• Accomplishes subsidiary objectives by establishing plans, budgets, and results measurements; allocating resources; reviewing progress; making mid-course corrections.
• Coordinates efforts by establishing procurement, production, marketing, field, and technical services policies and practices; coordinating actions with corporate staff.
• Builds company image by collaborating with customers, government, community organizations, and employees; enforcing ethical business practices.
• Maintains quality service by establishing and enforcing organization standards.
• Maintains professional and technical knowledge by attending educational workshops; reviewing professional publications / journals; establishing personal networks; benchmarking state-of-the-art practices; participating in professional societies.
• Makes certain that production and development department perform efficiently, coordinate employee efforts, and facilitate communications between management and 3D printing machine operators and rapid prototyping specialist
• Ensures that the organization work in line with international best practices.

Admin and HR Manager

• Responsible for overseeing the smooth running of HR and administrative tasks for the organization
• Designs job descriptions with KPI to drive performance management for clients
• Regularly hold meetings with key stakeholders to review the effectiveness of HR Policies, Procedures and Processes
• Maintains office supplies by checking stocks; placing and expediting orders; evaluating new products.
• Ensures operation of equipment by completing preventive maintenance requirements; calling for repairs.
• Defines job positions for recruitment and managing interviewing process
• Carries out staff induction for new team members
• Responsible for training, evaluation and assessment of employees
• Responsible for arranging travel, meetings and appointments
• Updates job knowledge by participating in educational opportunities; reading professional publications; maintaining personal networks; participating in professional organizations.
• Oversees the smooth running of the daily office activities.

Sales and Marketing Manager

• Manages external research and coordinate all the internal sources of information to retain the organizations’ best customers and attract new ones
• Models demographic information and analyze the volumes of transactional data generated by customer
• Identifies development opportunities; follows up on development leads and contacts; participates in the structuring and financing of projects; assures the completion of development projects.
• Writes winning proposal documents, negotiate fees and rates in line with organizations’ policy
• Responsible for handling business research, market surveys and feasibility studies for clients
• Responsible for supervising implementation, advocate for the customer’s needs, and communicate with clients
• Develops, executes and evaluates new plans for expanding increase sales
• Creates new markets cum businesses for the organization
• Empower and motivates the sales team to meet and surpass agreed targets

Accountant / Cashier:

• Responsible for preparing financial reports, budgets, and financial statements for the organization
• Provides managements with financial analyses, development budgets, and accounting reports; analyzes financial feasibility for the most complex proposed projects; conducts market research to forecast trends and business conditions.
• Responsible for financial forecasting and risks analysis.
• Performs cash management, general ledger accounting, and financial reporting for one or more properties.
• Responsible for developing and managing financial systems and policies
• Responsible for administering payrolls
• Ensuring compliance with taxation legislation
• Handles all financial transactions for Crop & Clip 3D Printing™, LLC
• Serves as internal auditor for Crop & Clip 3D Printing™, LLC
• In charge of handling 3D printing, rapid prototyping, 3D printing support services, selective laser sintering (SLS), fused deposition modeling (FDM) and stereo lithography (SLA)
• Liaises with clients to determine their requirement and budget
• Works to a brief, which details what the space will be used for, and finding out the client’s personal ideas and requirements
• Responsible for creating patterns and operating 3D printing machines cum equipment
• Responsible for negotiating fees and setting schedules for the project
• Responsible for researching and drawing up rough plans
• Responsible for developing detailed designs and choosing materials
• Responsible for preparing drafts or material based on an agreement brief.
• Researches and advices the organization on style, genre and other trendy info as it relates to 3D printing and rapid prototyping et al.
• Welcomes clients and visitors by greeting them in person or on the telephone; answering or directing inquiries.
• Ensures that all contacts with clients (e-mail, walk-In center, SMS or phone) provides the client with a personalized customer service experience of the highest level
• Through interaction with clients on the phone, uses every opportunity to build client’s interest in the company’s products and services
• Manages administrative duties assigned by the HR manager in an effective and timely manner
• Consistently stays abreast of any new information on the organizations’ products, promotional campaigns etc. to ensure accurate and helpful information is supplied to potential clients when they make enquiries
• Receives parcels / documents for the company
• Distributes mails in the organization
• Handles any other duties as assigned by the human resources and admin manager.

6. SWOT Analysis

Crop & Clip 3D Printing™, LLC employed the services of a core professional in the area of business consulting and structuring to assist our organization in building a well – structured 3D printing and rapid prototyping services business that can favorably compete in the highly competitive 3D printing and rapid prototyping services industry in the United States and the world at large.

Part of what the team of business consultant did was to work with the management of our organization in conducting a SWOT analysis for Crop & Clip 3D Printing™, LLC. Here is a summary from the result of the SWOT analysis that was conducted on behalf of Crop & Clip 3D Printing™, LLC;

Our core strength lies in the power of our team; our workforce. We have a team of creative and highly proficient 3D printers and rapid prototyping experts, a team with excellent qualifications and experience in various niche areas in the printing industry.

Aside from the synergy that exists in our carefully selected 3D printers and rapid prototyping experts, we have some of the latest and efficient 3D printing machines and equipment and of course our work output and services will be guided by international best practices in the industry.

As a new 3D printing and rapid prototyping services company in Los Angeles – California, it might take some time for our organization to break into the market and gain acceptance especially from the government and other high profile clients in the already saturated and highly competitive 3D printing and rapid prototyping services industry; that is perhaps our major weakness. Another weakness is that we may not have the required cash to promote our business the way we would want to.

• Opportunities:

No doubt, the opportunities in the 3D printing and rapid prototyping services industry is massive considering the number of individuals and corporate organizations that would need the services of 3D printing and rapid prototyping services companies. As a standard 3D printing and rapid prototyping services company, we are ready to take advantage of any opportunity that is available in the industry.

Just like any other business, one of the major threats that we are likely going to face is economic downturn. It is a fact that economic downturn affects purchasing / spending power. Another threat that may likely confront us is the arrival of a new 3D printing and rapid prototyping services company in same location where our target market exist and who may want to adopt same Business model like us.

7. MARKET ANALYSIS

• Market Trends

As a 3D printing and rapid prototyping services company with the aspiration to favorably compete in the industry, you are expected to keep tab with new trends and products that are always coming up in the industry.

It is important to state that in recent time, for any 3D printing and rapid prototyping services company to continue to stay in business and grow, they must continue to come up with highly creative design and concepts and also engage in other printing related services.

8. Our Target Market

Before starting our 3D printing and rapid prototyping services company, we are certain that there is a wide range of both corporate and individual clients who cannot successfully carry out promotions and branding of their products and services without hiring the services of 3D printing press.

We will ensure that we develop strategic pacts with corporate organizations, advertising and branding agencies, and religious organizations et al. This will give us several options to generate revenue for our company. In view of that, we have created strategies that will enable us reach out to various corporate organizations and individual who we know can’t afford to do without our services.

We have conducted our market research and survey and we will ensure that all our 3D printing and rapid prototyping services are well accepted in the market place. Below is a list of the people and organizations that we have specifically market our products and services to;

• Banks, Insurance Companies and other related Financial Institutions
• Blue Chips Companies
• Corporate Organizations
• Manufacturers and Distributors
• Real Estate Owners, Developers, and Contractors
• Research and Development Companies
• The Government (Public Sector)
• Schools (High Schools, Colleges and Universities)
• Celebrities, Politicians, Public Figures and Public Speakers
• Sport Organizations
• Religious Organizations
• Political Parties
• Television Stations
• Printing Press (Publishing Houses) and Authors
• Branding and Advertising agencies
• Aspiring celebrities
• Entrepreneurs and Start – Ups

Our Competitive Advantage

No doubt the competition in the 3D printing and rapid prototyping services industry is getting stiffer by the day, you have to be highly creative and come up with appealing designs and concepts and very neat jobs in order to survive in the industry.

The 3D printing and rapid prototyping services industry is indeed a profitable and at the same time a highly competitive industry; it enjoys strong demand as organizations and individuals continue to print materials for promotional purposes. Clients will only hire your services if they know that they can get nothing but the best from you.

We are quite aware that to be highly competitive in the 3D printing and rapid prototyping services industry means that you are not only expected to be able to deliver consistent and highly creative designs, but you must be able to meet set targets. No one would want to continue to hire your services if don’t always meet up with the target date of completion of projects.

Our competitive advantage lies in the power of our team; our workforce. We have a team of creative and highly proficient 3D printers and rapid prototyping experts, a team with excellent qualifications and experience in various niche areas in the printing industry.

Lastly, all our employees will be well taken care of, and their welfare package will be among the best within our category ( startups 3D printing and rapid prototyping services companies in the United States ) in the industry. It will enable them to be more than willing to build the business with us and help deliver our set goals and achieve all our business aims and objectives.

9. SALES AND MARKETING STRATEGY

• Sources of Income

Crop & Clip 3D Printing™, LLC is established with the aim of maximizing profits in the 3D printing and rapid prototyping services industry and we are going to go all the way to ensure that we do all it takes to meet and surpass the expectations of all our clients.

Crop & Clip 3D Printing™, LLC will generate income by offering the following 3D printing and rapid prototyping services and other printing related services;

10. Sales Forecast

One thing is certain, there would always be corporate organization and individual who would need the services of 3D printing and rapid prototyping companies whenever they have to conduct promotions and branding and also other related printing services.

We are well positioned to take on the available market in 3D printing and rapid prototyping services industry and we are quite optimistic that we will meet our set target of generating enough income / profits from the first six month of operations and grow our 3D printing and rapid prototyping services company to enviable heights.

We have been able to critically examine the 3D printing and rapid prototyping services market and we have analyzed our chances in the industry and we have been able to come up with the following sales forecast. The sales projections are based on information gathered on the field and some assumptions that are peculiar to similar startups in Los Angeles – California.

Below are the sales projections for Crop & Clip 3D Printing™, LLC, it is based on the location of our business and of course the wide range of our services and target market;

• First Fiscal Year-: $250,000
• Second Fiscal Year-: $400,000
• Third Fiscal Year-: $750,000

N.B : This projection is done based on what is obtainable in the industry and with the assumption that there won’t be any major economic meltdown and there won’t be any major competitor offering same 3D printing and rapid prototyping services as we do within same location. Please note that the above projection might be lower and at the same time it might be higher.

• Marketing Strategy and Sales Strategy

We are not ignorant of the fact that there are stiffer competitions in the 3D printing and rapid prototyping services industry; there are loads of 3D printing and rapid prototyping services companies jostling for contracts which is why we have been able to hire some of the best marketing experts to handle our sales and marketing.

Our sales and marketing team will be recruited based on their vast experience in the 3D printing and rapid prototyping services industry and they will be trained on a regular basis so as to be well equipped to meet their set targets and the overall business goal of Crop & Clip 3D Printing™, LLC.

Our goal is to grow Crop & Clip 3D Printing™, LLC to become one of the leading 3D printing and rapid prototyping services companies in the United States of America which is why we have mapped out strategies that will help us take advantage of the available market and grow to become a major force to reckon with not only in Los Angeles – California but also in other cities in the United States of America.

Crop & Clip 3D Printing™, LLC is set to make use of the following marketing and sales strategies to attract clients and win 3D printing and rapid prototyping services contracts;

• Introduce our 3D printing and rapid prototyping Services Company by sending introductory letters alongside our brochure to corporate organizations, advertising and branding agencies, religious organizations and key stake holders.
• Promptness in bidding for 3D printing and rapid prototyping services contracts from the government and other cooperate organizations
• Advertise our business in relevant business magazines, newspapers, TV stations, and radio station.
• List our business on yellow pages ads (local directories)
• Attend relevant international and local expos, seminars, and business fairs et al
• Create different packages for different category of clients in order to work with their budgets and still deliver excellent 3D printing and rapid prototyping services
• Leverage on the internet to promote our business
• Engage direct marketing approach
• Join local chambers of commerce and industries to network and market our services
• Encourage word of mouth marketing from loyal and satisfied clients

11. Publicity and Advertising Strategy

We have been able to work with brand and publicity consultants to help us map out publicity and advertising strategies that will help us walk our way into the heart of our target market.

We are set to become the number one choice for both corporate clients and individual clients in the whole of the Virginia Beach and beyond which is why we have made provisions for effective publicity and advertisement of our 3D printing and rapid prototyping services company.

Below are the platforms we intend to leverage on to promote and advertise Crop & Clip 3D Printing™, LLC;

• Place adverts on both print (newspapers and magazines) and electronic media platforms
• Sponsor relevant community based events / programs
• Leverage on the internet and social media platforms like; Instagram, Facebook , twitter, YouTube, Google + et al to promote our services
• Install our Bill Boards on strategic locations all around Los Angeles – California
• Engage in road show from time to time in targeted neighborhoods
• Distribute our fliers and handbills in target areas
• Contact corporate organizations and residence in our target areas by calling them up and informing them of Crop & Clip 3D Printing™, LLC and the services we offer
• List our 3D printing and rapid prototyping services company in local directories / yellow pages
• Advertise our 3D printing and rapid prototyping services company in our official website and employ strategies that will help us pull traffic to the site.
• Ensure that all our staff members wear our branded shirts and all our vehicles and trucks are well branded with our company logo et al.

12. Our Pricing Strategy

If you are conversant with the 3D printing and rapid prototyping services industry, you will realize that the pricing structure ranges from fixed price rate to per square foot billing and even to the quantity of materials to be printed on. Almost all 3D printing and rapid prototyping services companies adopts all the available pricing system as it applies to the quantity of the job or project they are expected to execute.

At Crop & Clip 3D Printing™, LLC we will adopt all the pricing system as is obtainable in the industry but we will ensure that we keep the prices of our services a little below the average market rate for all of our customers by keeping our overhead low and by collecting payment in advance from corporate organizations who would hire our services to help them print on their promotional materials.

In addition, we will also offer special discounted rates to all our customers at regular intervals. We are aware that there are some one off 3D printing and rapid prototyping services jobs or government contracts which are always lucrative; we will ensure that we abide by the pricing model that is expected from contractors or organizations that bid for such contracts.

• Payment Options

The payment policy adopted by Crop & Clip 3D Printing™, LLC is all inclusive because we are quite aware that different customers prefer different payment options as it suits them but at the same time, we will ensure that we abide by the financial rules and regulation of the United States of America. Here are the payment options that Crop & Clip 3D Printing™, LLC will make available to her clients;

• Payment via bank transfer
• Payment with cash
• Payment via online bank transfer
• Payment via mobile money
• Payment via Point of Sales Machines (POS Machines)
• Payment via check
• Payment via bank draft

In view of the above, we have chosen banking platforms that will enable our client make payment for farm produces purchase without any stress on their part. Our bank account numbers will be made available on our website and promotional materials to clients who may want to deposit cash or make online transfer for our services.

13. Startup Expenditure (Budget)

In setting up any business, the amount or cost will depend on the approach and scale you want to undertake. If you intend to go big by renting a place, then you would need a good amount of capital as you would need to ensure that your employees are well taken care of, and that your facility is conducive enough for workers to be creative and productive.

This means that the start-up can either be low or high depending on your goals, vision and aspirations for your business. When it comes to setting up a 3D printing and rapid prototyping services business, the materials and equipment that will be used are nearly the same cost everywhere, and any difference in prices would be minimal and can be overlooked.

As for the detailed cost analysis for starting a 3D printing and rapid prototyping services company; it might differ in other countries due to the value of their money. However, this is what it would cost us to setup Crop & Clip 3D Printing™, LLC in Los Angeles – California, U.S;

• Business incorporating fees in the United States of America will cost – $750.
• The budget for Liability insurance, permits and license will cost – $3,500
• Acquiring an office space or warehouse that will accommodate the number of employees for at least 6 months (Re – Construction of the facility inclusive) will cost – $150,000.
• Equipping the office (computers, 3D printing machines and equipment, servers / internet facility, furniture, telephones, filing cabinets, and electronics) will cost – $10,000
• Amount required to purchase the needed software applications – $3,500
• Launching an official Website will cost – $500
• Amount need to pay bills and staff members for at least 2 to 3 months – $70,000
• Additional Expenditure such as Business cards, Signage, Adverts and Promotions will cost – $5,000

Going by the report from the market research and feasibility studies conducted, we will need about two hundred thousand ( 350,000 ) U.S. dollars to successfully set – up a medium scale but standard 3D printing and rapid prototyping services company in the United States of America.

Generating Funds / Startup Capital for Crop & Clip 3D Printing™, LLC

Crop & Clip 3D Printing™, LLC is a family business that will be owned by Mr. Joseph Pascal and his immediate family members. They are the sole financial of the business which is why they decided to restrict the sourcing of the start – up capital for the business to just three major sources.

These are the areas we intend generating our start – up capital;

• Generate part of the start – up capital from personal savings and sale of his stocks
• Generate part of the start – up capital from friends and other extended family members
• Generate a larger chunk of the startup capital from the bank (loan facility).

N.B: We have been able to generate about $100,000 (Personal savings $85,000 and soft loan from family members $15,000 ) and we are at the final stages of obtaining a loan facility of $250,000 from our bank. All the papers and document has been duly signed and submitted, the loan has been approved and any moment from now our account will be credited.

14. Sustainability and Expansion Strategy

The future of a business lies in the numbers of loyal customers that they have the capacity and competence of the employees, their investment strategy and the business structure. If all of these factors are missing from a business (company), then it won’t be too long before the business close shop.

One of our major goals of starting Crop & Clip 3D Printing™, LLC is to build a business that will survive off its own cash flow without the need for injecting finance from external sources once the business is officially running.

We know that one of the ways of gaining approval and winning customers over is to offer our 3D printing and rapid prototyping services a little bit cheaper than what is obtainable in the market and we are well prepared to survive on lower profit margin for a while.

Crop & Clip 3D Printing™, LLC will make sure that the right foundation, structures and processes are put in place to ensure that our staff welfare are well taken of. Our company’s corporate culture is designed to drive our business to greater heights and training and re – training of our workforce is at the top burner of our business strategy.

As a matter of fact, profit-sharing arrangement will be made available to all our management staff and it will be based on their performance for a period of ten years or more as determined by the board of the organization. We know that if that is put in place, we will be able to successfully hire and retain the best hands we can get in the industry; they will be more committed to help us build the business of our dreams.

Check List / Milestone

• Business Name Availability Check: Completed
• Business Incorporation: Completed
• Opening of Corporate Bank Accounts various banks in the United States: Completed
• Opening Online Payment Platforms: Completed
• Application and Obtaining Tax Payer’s ID: In Progress
• Securing a standard office facility plus renovation of the facility: Completed
• Application for business license and permit: Completed
• Purchase of All form of Insurance for the Business: Completed
• Conducting Feasibility Studies: Completed
• Generating part of the start – up capital from the founders: Completed
• writing of business plan: Completed
• Drafting of Employee’s Handbook: Completed
• Drafting of Contract Documents: In Progress
• Design of Logo for the business: Completed
• Secure trademark for our products: In Progress
• Graphic Designs and Printing of Packaging Marketing / Promotional Materials: Completed
• Recruitment of employees: In Progress
• Purchase of the needed 3D printing machines: Completed
• Purchase of the needed furniture, office equipment, software applications, electronic appliances and facility facelift: In progress
• Creating Official Website for the business: In Progress
• Creating Awareness for the business: In Progress
• Health and Safety and Fire Safety Arrangement: In Progress
• Establishing business relationship with vendors and key players in the industries: In Progress

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3D Printing Business

Back to All Business Ideas

How to Start a 3D Printing Business

Written by: Carolyn Young

Carolyn Young is a business writer who focuses on entrepreneurial concepts and the business formation. She has over 25 years of experience in business roles, and has authored several entrepreneurship textbooks.

Edited by: David Lepeska

David has been writing and learning about business, finance and globalization for a quarter-century, starting with a small New York consulting firm in the 1990s.

Published on January 27, 2022 Updated on May 7, 2024

Investment range

$7,050 - $16,100

Revenue potential

$130,000 - $650,000 p.a.

Time to build

1 – 3 months

Profit potential

$100,000 - $200,000 p.a.

Industry trend

3D printing is taking off! But you can still get in on the ground floor and ride this elevator to the top. It’s a $20 billion global market that’s only expected to grow. 

Most startups can’t afford their own 3D printer, and many turn to a 3D printing service to produce their initial prototypes. Toys and home décor are also popular 3D printing products. Opening a 3D printing business, which you can do in your home, is an incredible opportunity to join a booming industry and make good money. 

You can’t, however, simply make a 3D print of a 3D printing business and hit the ground running. You need to understand the nitty-gritty, which is what you will find in this step-by-step guide that is loaded with tips and insights to help you begin your entrepreneurial adventure.

Looking to register your business? A limited liability company (LLC) is the best legal structure for new businesses because it is fast and simple.

Form your business immediately using ZenBusiness LLC formation service or hire one of the Best LLC Services .

Step 1: Decide if the Business Is Right for You

Pros and cons.

Starting a 3D printing business has pros and cons that you should consider before deciding if it’s right for you.

• Good profit — Prices for 3D prints cost up to $1,000 or more
• Global clientele — Work from home, take orders from anywhere
• Strong retention — Happy customers tend to return
• Evolving technology — 3D printers quickly become outdated
• Expensive — 3D printers don’t come cheap

3D Printing Industry Trends

The US 3D printer manufacturing industry has strongly recovered from the pandemic slump. The opportunity is there for the bold entrepreneur to jump in and ride the wave. 

Industry Size and Growth

• Industry size and past growth — The 3D printer manufacturing industry in the US has returned to a high growth path, reaching a revenue of $7.3 billion in 2023, the highest in the past 10 years. The industry has been growing by 11.8% per year since 2018.(( https://www.ibisworld.com/industry-statistics/market-size/3d-printer-manufacturing-united-states/ ))  
• Growth forecast — Global 3D printing market was valued at $20.37 billion in 2023 and is expected to grow 23.5% yearly by 2030.(( https://www.grandviewresearch.com/industry-analysis/3d-printing-industry-analysis ))
• Number of businesses — There were 613 3D printer manufacturers in the US in 2023.(( https://www.ibisworld.com/industry-statistics/number-of-businesses/3d-printer-manufacturing-united-states/ ))
• Number of people employed — In 2023, the industry employed 21,737 people.(( https://www.ibisworld.com/industry-statistics/employment/3d-printer-manufacturing-united-states/ ))

Trends and Challenges

• Advancing technology is opening doors for many new 3D printing applications, fueling the growth of the industry. The most common use of a 3D printer remains the making of prototypes, but other applications include toys and home decor.
• New types of 3D printing materials are emerging, including polymers and metals, contributing to the advance of the industry. New products that can be 3D printed include tool components and even finished auto parts.
• 3D printing may threaten intellectual property rights since printers can potentially duplicate patented products. This may lead to increased regulation in 3D printing.
• Advancing technologies can make current 3D printers obsolete, creating a need for printing businesses to regularly upgrade their equipment. 

What Kind of People Work in 3D Printing?

• Gender — 84% of 3D designers are male, while 16% are female.(( https://www.zippia.com/3d-designer-jobs/demographics/#gender-statistics ))
• Average level of education — 64% of 3D designers hold a bachelor’s degree.(( https://www.zippia.com/3d-designer-jobs/demographics/#degree-level-types ))
• Average age — The average age of an employed 3D designer is 38.5 years old.(( https://www.zippia.com/3d-designer-jobs/demographics/#age-statistics ))

How Much Does It Cost to Start a 3D Printing Business?

Startup costs for a 3D printing business range from $7,000 to $16,000. The highest costs are the printer itself and the 3D design software. The high end reflects purchasing a more expensive printer with better functionality. Other than those items, you just need printing materials such as plastic or metal, in addition to enough space to create a small studio. 

You could also take an online course through a site like Udemy for less than $30. Courses are self-study and can be completed in 4–8 hours. 

How Much Can You Earn From a 3D Printing Business?

Prices for 3D prints vary greatly depending on the complexity but can range from $30 to $1,000 or more. If you specialize in prototypes, designs are likely to be complex, so these calculations will assume an average price of $500. Your profit margin after the cost of materials should be around 80%.

In your first year or two, you could work from home and sell five prints a week, bringing in $130,000 in annual revenue. This would mean over $100,000 in profit, assuming that 80% margin. As your brand gains recognition, sales could climb to 25 prints a week. At this stage, you’d rent a commercial space and hire staff, reducing your margin to 30%. With an expected annual revenue of $650,000, you’d make nearly $200,000.

What Barriers to Entry Are There?

There are a few barriers to entry for a 3D printing business. Beyond mastering the 3D printing process, your biggest challenges will be:

• Funding the costs of starting the business
• Facing massive competition from online 3D printing companies

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Step 2: hone your idea.

Now that you know what’s involved in starting a 3D printing business, it’s a good idea to hone your concept in preparation to enter a competitive market. 

Market research will give you the upper hand, even if you’re already positive that you have a perfect product or service. Conducting market research is important, because it can help you understand your customers better, who your competitors are, and your business landscape.

Why? Identify an Opportunity

Research 3D printing businesses in your area to examine their services, price points, and what sells best. You’re looking for a market gap to fill. For instance, maybe the local market is missing a 3D prototype printing business.

You might consider targeting a niche market by specializing in a certain aspect of your industry, such as 3D printed toys.

This could jumpstart your word-of-mouth marketing and attract clients right away. 

What? Determine Your 3D Products or Services

Your services will depend on the capabilities of your 3D printer. If it has advanced capabilities, prototypes will be your highest-priced services. However, you should probably offer a wide range of services to maximize revenue. 

There are several ways to make money with 3D printing , including:

• Selling 3D-printed products — You can design and print your own products or use existing designs to create items that you can sell on online marketplaces like Etsy, Amazon, or eBay. Popular 3D-printed items include jewelry, phone cases, toys, and home decor.
• Providing 3D printing services — You can offer 3D printing services to individuals or businesses that need custom parts or prototypes. This can include creating one-off prints or producing small runs of products.
• Creating and selling 3D printing designs — You can design and sell your own 3D printing designs on platforms like Thingiverse or MyMiniFactory . This can be a good way to earn passive income once your designs become popular.
• Teaching 3D printing classes — You can offer classes or workshops on 3D printing to teach others how to use the technology. This can be a great way to earn income while sharing your expertise with others.
• Repairing and maintaining 3D printers — As 3D printing becomes more popular, there is a growing need for technicians who can repair and maintain 3D printers. You can offer these services to individuals or businesses that need help keeping their printers in good working order.

Overall, there are many opportunities to make money with 3D printing, and the field is constantly evolving. By staying up to date on new technologies and trends, building a strong reputation for quality and reliability, and finding a niche in the market, you can create a successful 3D printing business.

How Much Should You Charge for 3D Prints?

Prices will vary based on the complexity of the print and the materials used. Complex items may cost $1,000 or more. You’ll price products on a case-by-case basis. When you’re working by yourself and from home, you should aim for a profit margin of about 80%.

Once you know your costs, you can use our profit margin calculator to determine your markup (also, use our Markup Calculator ) and final price point. Remember, the price you use at launch should be subject to change if warranted by the market.

Who? Identify Your Target Market

If you do mostly prototypes, your target market will be entrepreneurs. You can find them on sites like LinkedIn. You could also partner with local business incubators and small business development centers to get referrals.

Where? Choose Your Business Premises

In the early stages, you may want to run your business from home to keep costs low. But as your business grows, you’ll likely need to hire workers for various roles and may need to rent out a production facility. Find commercial space to rent in your area on sites such as Craigslist , Crexi , and Instant Offices .

When choosing a commercial space, you may want to follow these rules of thumb:

• Central location accessible via public transport
• Ventilated and spacious, with good natural light
• Flexible lease that can be extended as your business grows
• Ready-to-use space with no major renovations or repairs needed

Step 3: Brainstorm a 3D Printing Business Name

Here are some ideas for brainstorming your business name:

• Short, unique, and catchy names tend to stand out
• Names that are easy to say and spell tend to do better 
• Name should be relevant to your product or service offerings
• Ask around — family, friends, colleagues, social media — for suggestions
• Including keywords, such as “3D printer” or “3D printing,” boosts SEO
• Name should allow for expansion, for example, “The 3D Hub” over “3D Automotive Parts Makers”
• A location-based name can help establish a strong connection with your local community and help with the SEO but might hinder future expansion

Discover over 370 unique 3D printing business name ideas here . If you want your business name to include specific keywords, you can also use our 3D printing business name generator. Just type in a few keywords, hit Generate, and you’ll have dozens of suggestions at your fingertips.

Once you’ve got a list of potential names, visit the website of the US Patent and Trademark Office to make sure they are available for registration and check the availability of related domain names using our Domain Name Search tool. Using “.com” or “.org” sharply increases credibility, so it’s best to focus on these. 

Find a Domain

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Finally, make your choice among the names that pass this screening and go ahead with domain registration and social media account creation. Your business name is one of the key differentiators that set your business apart. Once you pick your company name and start with the branding, it is hard to change the business name. Therefore, it’s important to carefully consider your choice before you start a business entity.

Step 4: Create a 3D Printing Business Plan

Here are the key components of a home inspection business plan:

• Executive summary — A brief overview of your 3D printing business plan, summarizing its key points and goals
• Business overview — An introduction to your 3D printing business, including its mission, vision, and the problem it aims to solve
• Product and services — Description of the 3D printing products and services you offer, highlighting their unique features and benefits
• Market analysis — An examination of the 3D printing market, including target demographics, industry trends, and potential growth opportunities
• Competitive analysis — An evaluation of your 3D printing business’s competition, identifying key competitors and their strengths and weaknesses
• Sales and marketing — Strategies for promoting and selling your 3D printing products and services, encompassing pricing, distribution, and marketing tactics
• Management team — Profiles of the individuals leading your 3D printing business, emphasizing their relevant skills and experience
• Operations plan — Details on the day-to-day operations of your 3D printing business, covering production, supply chain, and quality control
• Financial plan — Financial projections and funding requirements for your 3D printing business, including income statements, balance sheets, and cash flow forecasts
• Appendix — Supplementary information, such as additional research, charts, and supporting documents to provide further context and details for your business plan

If you’ve never created a business plan, it can be an intimidating task. You might consider hiring a business plan specialist to create a top-notch business plan for you.

Step 5: Register Your Business

Registering your business is an absolutely crucial step — it’s the prerequisite to paying taxes, raising capital, opening a bank account, and other guideposts on the road to getting a business up and running.

Plus, registration is exciting because it makes the entire process official. Once it’s complete, you’ll have your own business! 

Choose Where to Register Your Company

Your business location is important because it can affect taxes, legal requirements, and revenue. Most people will register their business in the state where they live, but if you’re planning to expand, you might consider looking elsewhere, as some states could offer real advantages when it comes to 3D printing businesses.

If you’re willing to move, you could really maximize your business! Keep in mind that it’s relatively easy to transfer your business to another state. 

Choose Your Business Structure

Business entities come in several varieties, each with its pros and cons. The legal structure you choose for your 3D printing business will shape your taxes, personal liability, and business registration requirements, so choose wisely. 

Here are the main options:

• Sole proprietorship — The most common structure for small businesses makes no legal distinction between company and owner. All income goes to the owner, who’s also liable for any debts, losses, or liabilities incurred by the business. The owner pays taxes on business income on his or her personal tax return.
• General partnership — Similar to a sole proprietorship, but for two or more people. Again, owners keep the profits and are liable for losses. The partners pay taxes on their share of business income on their personal tax returns.
• Limited Liability Company (LLC) — Combines the characteristics of corporations with those of sole proprietorships or partnerships. Again, the owners are not personally liable for debts.
• C Corporation — Under this structure, the business is a distinct legal entity and the owner or owners are not personally liable for its debts. Owners take profits through shareholder dividends, rather than directly. The corporation pays taxes, and owners pay taxes on their dividends, which is sometimes referred to as double taxation.
• S Corporation — This refers to the tax classification of the business but is not a business entity. An S Corp can be either a corporation or an LLC , which just needs to elect this structure for tax status. In an S Corp, income is passed through directly to shareholders, who pay taxes on their share of business income on their personal tax returns.

We recommend that new business owners choose LLC as it offers liability protection and pass-through taxation while being simpler to form than a corporation. You can form an LLC in as little as five minutes using an online LLC formation service. They will check that your business name is available before filing, submit your articles of organization , and answer any questions you might have.

Form Your LLC

Choose Your State

We recommend ZenBusiness as the Best LLC Service for 2024

Step 6: Register for Taxes

The final step before you’re able to pay taxes is getting an Employer Identification Number or EIN. You can file for your EIN online, or by mail/fax. Visit the IRS website to learn more. Keep in mind, if you’ve chosen to be a sole proprietorship you can simply use your social security number as your EIN. 

Once you have your EIN, you’ll need to choose your tax year. Financially speaking, your business will operate in a calendar year (January–December) or a fiscal year, a 12-month period that can start in any month. This will determine your tax cycle, while your business structure will determine which taxes you’ll pay.

The IRS website also offers a tax-payers checklist , and taxes can be filed online.

It is important to consult an accountant or other professional to help you with your taxes to ensure you’re completing them correctly.

Step 7: Fund Your Business

Securing financing is your next step and there are plenty of ways to raise capital:

• Bank loans — This is the most common method but getting approved requires a rock-solid business plan and strong credit history.
• SBA-guaranteed loans — The Small Business Administration can act as a guarantor, helping gain that elusive bank approval via an SBA-guaranteed loan .
• Government grants — A handful of financial assistance programs help fund entrepreneurs. Visit Grants.gov to learn which might work for you.
• Friends and family — Reach out to friends and family to provide a business loan or investment in your concept. It’s a good idea to have legal advice when doing so because SEC regulations apply.
• Crowdfunding — Websites like Kickstarter and Indiegogo offer an increasingly popular low-risk option, in which donors fund your vision. Entrepreneurial crowdfunding sites like Fundable and WeFunder enable multiple investors to fund your business.
• Personal — Self-fund your business via your savings or the sale of property or other assets.

Bank and SBA loans are probably the best options, other than friends and family, for funding a 3D printing business. You might also try crowdfunding since 3D printing is such a booming industry.

Step 8: Apply for Licenses and Permits

Starting a 3D printing business requires obtaining a number of licenses and permits from local, state, and federal governments.

It’s important to note that several states are considering a ban on the 3D printing of firearms. New Jersey already has such a ban in place. Be aware that additional regulations may be on the horizon. 

Federal regulations, licenses, and permits associated with starting your business include doing business as (DBA), health license and permit from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration ( OSHA ), trademarks, copyrights, patents, and other intellectual properties, as well as industry-specific licenses and permits. 

You may also need state-level and local county or city-based licenses and permits. The license requirements and how to obtain them vary, so check the websites of your state, city, and county governments or contact the appropriate person to learn more. 

You could also check this SBA guide for your state’s requirements, but we recommend using MyCorporation’s Business License Compliance Package . They will research the exact forms you need for your business and state and provide them to ensure you’re fully compliant.

This is not a step to be taken lightly, as failing to comply with legal requirements can result in hefty penalties.

If you feel overwhelmed by this step or don’t know how to begin, it might be a good idea to hire a professional to help you check all the legal boxes.

Step 9: Open a Business Bank Account

Before you start making money, you’ll need a place to keep it, and that requires opening a bank account .

Keeping your business finances separate from your personal account makes it easy to file taxes and track your company’s income, so it’s worth doing even if you’re running your 3D printing business as a sole proprietorship. Opening a business bank account is quite simple and similar to opening a personal one. Most major banks offer accounts tailored for businesses — just inquire at your preferred bank to learn about their rates and features.

Banks vary in terms of offerings, so it’s a good idea to examine your options and select the best plan for you. Once you choose your bank, bring in your EIN (or Social Security Number if you decide on a sole proprietorship), articles of incorporation, and other legal documents and open your new account. 

Step 10: Get Business Insurance

Business insurance is an area that often gets overlooked yet it can be vital to your success as an entrepreneur. Insurance protects you from unexpected events that can have a devastating impact on your business.

Here are some types of insurance to consider:

• General liability — The most comprehensive type of insurance, acting as a catch-all for many business elements that require coverage. If you get just one kind of insurance, this is it. It even protects against bodily injury and property damage.
• Business property — Provides coverage for your equipment and supplies.
• Equipment breakdown insurance — Covers the cost of replacing or repairing equipment that has broken due to mechanical issues.
• Worker’s compensation — Provides compensation to employees injured on the job.
• Property — Covers your physical space, whether it is a cart, storefront, or office.
• Commercial auto — Protection for your company-owned vehicle.
• Professional liability — Protects against claims from clients who say they suffered a loss due to an error or omission in your work.
• Business owner’s policy (BOP) — This is an insurance plan that acts as an all-in-one insurance policy, a combination of the above insurance types.

Step 11: Prepare to Launch

As the opening day nears, prepare for launch by reviewing and improving some key elements of your business. 

Essential Software and Tools

Being an entrepreneur often means wearing many hats, from marketing to sales to accounting, which can be overwhelming. Fortunately, many websites and digital tools are available to help simplify many business tasks. 

You can use industry-specific software, such as MakerOS , 3DPrinterOS , or All3DP , to manage your workflows, machines, quotes, and invoicing. 

• Popular web-based accounting programs for smaller businesses include Quickbooks , FreshBooks , and Xero . 
• If you’re unfamiliar with basic accounting, you may want to hire a professional, especially as you begin. The consequences of filing incorrect tax documents can be harsh, so accuracy is crucial. 

Develop Your Website

Website development is crucial because your site is your online presence and needs to convince prospective clients of your expertise and professionalism.

You can create your own website using website builders . This route is very affordable, but figuring out how to build a website can be time-consuming. If you lack tech savvy, you can hire a web designer or developer to create a custom website for your business.

However, people are unlikely to find your website unless you follow Search Engine Optimization ( SEO ) practices. These are steps that help pages rank higher in the results of top search engines like Google. 

Here are some powerful marketing strategies for your future business:

• Targeted social media campaigns — Leverage platforms like Facebook and Instagram to run ads tailored to specific demographics interested in 3D printing.
• Search engine optimization (SEO) — Apply SEO best practices to improve your website’s visibility and attract clients searching for 3D printing solutions.
• Local SEO — Ensure your business is prominently listed on Google My Business and Yelp to boost your local online presence.
• Instructional video content — Create videos that explain the benefits and processes of 3D printing, increasing shareability and engagement.
• Blogging and thought leadership — Start a blog to share insights on industry advancements and innovative uses of 3D printing, establishing your brand as a thought leader.
• Webinars and workshops — Organize webinars and workshops to demonstrate your expertise and the capabilities of 3D printing technology.
• Creative signage — Utilize your 3D printing technology to produce innovative signage for your store and events, showcasing your technical capabilities.
• Event sponsorship — Sponsor relevant local and industry events to build brand awareness and connect with potential clients.
• Referral programs — Implement a referral program with incentives to motivate current customers to bring in new clients.
• Paid digital advertising — Invest in digital ads on platforms that align with your target audience for precise and effective targeting.
• Collaborations with designers — Partner with designers and artists to bring their creative concepts to life, highlighting the versatility of your services.
• Augmented reality ads — Incorporate augmented reality into your advertising to provide potential clients with interactive previews of their designs.

Focus on USPs

Unique selling propositions, or USPs, are the characteristics of a product or service that set it apart from the competition. Customers today are inundated with buying options, so you’ll have a real advantage if they are able to quickly grasp how your 3D printing meets their needs or wishes. It’s wise to do all you can to ensure your USPs stand out on your website and in your marketing and promotional materials, stimulating buyer desire. 

Global pizza chain Domino’s is renowned for its USP: “Hot pizza in 30 minutes or less, guaranteed.” Signature USPs for your 3D printing business could be: 

• Custom 3D toys for your child only!
• Custom 3D-printed home décor — the design is yours! 
• Prototype printing to help launch your business 

You may not like to network or use personal connections for business gain but your personal and professional networks likely offer considerable untapped business potential. Maybe that Facebook friend you met in college is now running a 3D printing business, or a LinkedIn contact of yours is connected to dozens of potential clients. Maybe your cousin or neighbor has been in 3D printing for years and can offer invaluable insight and industry connections. 

The possibilities are endless, so it’s a good idea to review your personal and professional networks and reach out to those with possible links to or interest in 3D printing. You’ll probably generate new customers or find companies with which you could establish a partnership. Online businesses might also consider affiliate marketing as a way to build relationships with potential partners and boost business. 

Step 12: Build Your Team

If you’re starting out small from a home office, you may not need any employees. But as your business grows, you will likely need workers to fill various roles. Potential positions for a 3D printing business would include:

• Printers — making the 3D prints, customer service
• General manager — staff management, ordering, accounting
• Marketing lead — SEO strategies, social media, other marketing

At some point, you may need to hire all of these positions or simply a few, depending on the size and needs of your business. You might also hire multiple workers for a single role or a single worker for multiple roles, again depending on need. 

Free-of-charge methods to recruit employees include posting ads on popular platforms such as LinkedIn, Facebook, or Jobs.com. You might also consider a premium recruitment option, such as advertising on Indeed , Glassdoor , or ZipRecruiter . Further, if you have the resources, you could consider hiring a recruitment agency to help you find talent. 

Step 13: Run 3D Printing Business — Start Making Money!

If you want to get into an industry that is growing by leaps and bounds, look no further. 3D printing is the market for you, expected to more than quadruple in size in the next few years. 

Considering the potential money you could make, startup costs are a relatively small investment. It’s also a business with virtually unlimited growth potential, so your small at-home business could become something huge. Now that you understand what’s involved in 3D printing from a business perspective, get ready to launch your new business and start building a 3D printing empire.

• 3D Printing Business FAQs

Even with a small 3D printing operation at home, you could make six figures. 3D printing prices are customized based on the complexity of the print and can run upwards of $1,000 for complex designs.

The cost of 3D printers varies based on type, size, capabilities, and brand. Entry-level printers for beginners typically range from $200 to $600, mid-range models cost between $600 and $2,000, and high-end industrial printers start at $2,000 and can exceed $10,000.

The most common materials used in 3D printing are plastic , metal , resin , wood , composites , and ceramics .

The prices for common 3D printing materials are approximately as follows: PLA (polylactic acid) costs between $20 and $50 per 2.2 pounds, ABS (acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene) is also $20 to $50 per 2.2 pounds, PET (polyethylene terephthalate) ranges from $30 to $60 per 2.2 pounds, Nylon varies from $40 to $100 2.2 pounds, and Resin costs between $50 and $150 per quart.

Yes, 3D printing can be a side hustle for individuals who are interested in making some extra income outside of their regular job.

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• Decide if the Business Is Right for You
• Hone Your Idea
• Brainstorm a 3D Printing Business Name
• Create a 3D Printing Business Plan
• Register Your Business
• Register for Taxes
• Fund Your Business
• Apply for Licenses and Permits
• Open a Business Bank Account
• Get Business Insurance
• Prepare to Launch
• Build Your Team
• Run 3D Printing Business — Start Making Money!

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3D Printing Business Plan Template

Written by Dave Lavinsky

3D Printing Business Plan

You’ve come to the right place to create your 3D Printing business plan.

We have helped over 10,000 entrepreneurs and business owners create business plans and many have used them to start or grow their 3D Printing companies.

Below is a template to help you create each section of your 3D Printing business plan.

Executive Summary

Business overview.

OKC 3D Printing is a new 3D printing company located in the heart of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. We offer world-class 3D printing services to businesses, educational institutes, and other organizations located around the city. The company uses the latest manufacturing technologies to build functional parts and prototypes in both metals and plastics. Some of the services provided include selective laser sintering, fused deposition modeling, stereolithography, and multi-jet fusion. No matter what models or ideas our customers bring to us, we can easily make them a reality.

OKC 3D Printing is founded and owned by Alex Walker, who is a veteran of the additive manufacturing and printing industry. He is well-versed in all of the most popular forms of 3D printing and has an in-depth knowledge of the operations and management aspects of running a 3D printing company. His experience and local connections will prove invaluable to the business.

Product Offering

OKC 3D Printing will provide a wide variety of 3D printing services to meet the diverse needs of our customers. Some of these services include:

• Rapid prototyping
• Multi-jet fusion (MJF)
• Selective laser sintering (SLS)
• Fused deposition modeling (FDM)
• Stereolithography (SLA)
• Direct metal printing
• Direct metal laser sintering (DMLS)

Customer Focus

OKC 3D Printing will serve the community of Oklahoma City. The company will primarily offer its products and services to businesses, educational institutions, and other organizations:

Management Team

OKC 3D Printing is led by Alex Walker, who has been in the additive manufacturing and printing industry for 25 years. While Alex has never run a 3D printing company himself, he was the Director of Operations at one of the leading 3D printing and rapid prototyping services companies in the area. During this time, he helped the company reach its full potential as it expanded its services and outreach to over a dozen local industries. As such, Alex has an in-depth knowledge of the 3D printing business, including the operations side (e.g., running day-to-day operations) and the business management side (e.g., staffing, marketing, etc.). He also holds a Bachelor of Science in Printing Technology and an MBA.

Success Factors

OKC 3D Printing will be able to achieve success by offering the following competitive advantages:

• Management: The management team has 25 years of working experience in a 3D printing company that allows them to serve customers in a more sophisticated manner than the competitors.
• Relationships: Having lived in the community for 30 years, Alex Walker knows all of the local leaders, media, and other influencers. Furthermore, he will be able to draw from his existing personal and professional relationships to develop an initial client base.
• Great service at an affordable price: The complete array of 3D printing services offered by OKC 3D Printing nearly equals the most premium-positioned competitors but at a much more affordable price.
• Location: OKC 3D Printing’s location is near the business center of town, giving the company access to educational institutions and private and public sector organizations that need 3D printing services.

Financial Highlights

OKC 3D Printing is currently seeking $600,000 to launch its 3D printing press. Specifically, these funds will be used as follows:

• Design and build-out: $100,000
• Equipment and supplies: $100,000
• Six months of overhead expenses (payroll, rent, utilities): $250,000
• Marketing costs: $50,000
• Working capital: $100,000

The following graph below outlines the pro forma financial projections for OKC 3D Printing.

Company Overview

Who is okc 3d printing, okc 3d printing history.

Alex Walker is an entrepreneur with a passion for new 3D printing techniques. He has been in the additive manufacturing and printing industry for the last 25 years but has been eager to branch out on his own. It was last year that Alex decided to start his own company dedicated to offering a complete 3D printing and design service experience for the residents and businesses of Oklahoma City.

Upon surveying the local customer base and finding a potential location, Alex Walker incorporated OKC 3D Printing as an S-Corporation on October 10th, 202X.

Alex is currently undergoing due diligence on several properties to assess which one might be the most desirable location for the 3D printing press.

Since incorporation, the company has achieved the following milestones:

• Found several properties that can serve as the location for the 3D printing press
• Developed the company’s name, logo, and website
• Determined equipment and inventory requirements
• Began recruiting key employees with experience in the industry

OKC 3D Printing Services

Industry analysis.

Though 3D printing has been around for decades, the industry has rapidly expanded in just the past 15 years. This is expected to continue as both businesses and individuals have an increasing need for 3D printing technology. Numerous industries are benefiting from 3D printing and are expanding this technology’s applications. With 3D printing becoming more common in sectors such as the healthcare, automotive, and defense industries, the 3D printing services industry will only continue to expand and increase in demand.

According to Grand View Research, the industry was valued at USD 16.75 billion in 2022, and about 2.2 million 3D printers were shipped. However, the industry is expected to grow at an enormous compound annual growth rate of 20.8% from now until 2030. In 2030, it is expected that the industry will be valued at USD 76.17 billion, and about 21.5 million printers will be shipped. This is aggressive growth that shows just how much this technology is in demand. This growth will only continue as more applications for 3D printing are discovered.

Customer Analysis

Demographic profile of target market.

OKC 3D Printing will serve businesses, government organizations, and educational institutions that are located in Oklahoma City. Oklahoma City is a large city filled with numerous businesses and organizations that can benefit from 3D printing.

The precise demographics for Oklahoma City are:

Customer Segmentation

OKC 3D Printing will primarily target the following three customer segments:

• Small businesses
• Government organizations
• High schools, colleges, and universities

Competitive Analysis

Direct and indirect competitors.

OKC 3D Printing will face competition from other companies with similar business profiles. A description of each competitor company is below.

Prototype One

Prototype One is one of the most renowned 3D printing companies and has been in business for 30 years. Prototype One offers a wide array of 3D printing services to allow product developers, designers, and engineers an easier path to move from prototyping to low-volume production. Their suite of services and capabilities is the most comprehensive of any other competitor.

3D Printing Solutions

3D Printing Solutions provides its customers with thousands of 3D services for the architecture, engineering, and construction sectors. The company’s products include coordinate measuring machines, laser trackers and projectors, mappers, scanners, and software. Customers are able to browse through their vast database of designs from one central location. 3D Printing Solutions categorizes designs to make it easy to find what its customers are looking for.

XO 3D Printing

XO 3D Printing was established in 2008 and caters to a high-end clientele as it provides platforms to facilitate the development of 3D printing applications in industries such as healthcare, automotive, aerospace, and art and design. With more than 120 3D printers, they have an unmatched capacity that reliably delivers parts within days.

Competitive Advantage

OKC 3D Printing enjoys several advantages over its competitors. These advantages include:

• Management: The management team has 25 years of working experience in a 3D printing company which allows them to serve customers in a more sophisticated manner than the competitors.

Marketing Plan

Brand & value proposition.

OKC 3D Printing seeks to position itself as an upper-middle-market competitor in the 3D printing industry. Customers can expect to receive professionally printed objects from skilled printing operators at a moderate price point.

The OKC 3D Printing brand will focus on the company’s unique value proposition:

• Offering a wide variety of customized 3D printing services and capabilities
• Convenient location
• Customer-focused service
• Moderate price point

Promotions Strategy

The promotions strategy for OKC 3D Printing is as follows:

Pre-Opening Events

Before opening, OKC 3D Printing will organize pre-opening events designed for prospective customers, local merchants, and press contacts. These events will create buzz and awareness for the company in the area.

Advertisement

Advertisements in print publications like newspapers, magazines, etc., are an excellent way for businesses to connect with their audience. The company will advertise its products in popular magazines and news dailies. Obtaining relevant placements in industry magazines and journals will also help in increasing brand visibility.

Public Relations

OKC 3D Printing will hire an experienced PR agency/professional(s) to formulate a compelling PR campaign to boost its brand visibility among the target audience. It will look to garner stories about the company and its offerings in various media outlets like newspapers, podcasts, television stations, radio shows, etc.

Social Media Marketing

One of the most cost-effective and practical marketing tools for increasing company visibility is social media. The company will use social media to develop engaging content in terms of different 3D designs and customer reviews that will increase audience awareness and loyalty. Engaging with prospective clients and business partners on social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn will also help understand changing customer needs.

OKC 3D Printing’s pricing will be moderate, so customers feel they receive great value when availing of the 3D printing services. Customers can expect to receive high-quality modeling and printing services at a more affordable price than what they pay at an ultra-premium printing company.

Operations Plan

The following will be the operations plan for OKC 3D Printing.

Operation Functions:

• Alex Walker will be the President of the company. He will be in charge of the overall operations as well as some of the initial marketing and networking efforts to gain new customers.
• Alex will be assisted by Noah Brown, who will serve as the Manager. He will help with customer service, operating the 3D printers, and managing the other technicians.
• Alex is also assisted by Rhonda Williams, who will work as an Administrative Assistant. She will be in charge of all the general administrative tasks for the company.
• Alex will hire several other employees to assist with marketing, sales, and customer service as the company continues to expand.
• Alex will also hire several technicians to operate the 3D printers and provide customer service.

Milestones:

The following are a series of steps that lead to our vision of long-term success. OKC 3D Printing expects to achieve the following milestones in the following six months:

2/202X            Finalize lease agreement on retail location

3/202X            Design and build out OKC 3D Printing

4/202X            Hire and train initial staff

5/202X            Kickoff of promotional campaign

6/202X            Launch OKC 3D Printing

7/202X            Reach break-even

Financial Plan

Key revenue & costs.

OKC 3D Printing’s revenues will come from the 3D printing services. The major costs for the company will be the buildout of the facility, printing equipment and supplies, and staff salaries. In the initial years, the company’s marketing spending will be high as it establishes itself in the market. Moreover, rent for the prime location is also one of the notable cost drivers for the company.

Funding Requirements and Use of Funds

Key assumptions.

The following table reflects the key revenue and cost assumptions made in the financial model:

• Average monthly payroll expenses: $50,000
• Office lease per year: $100,000

Financial Projections

Income statement, balance sheet, cash flow statement, 3d printing business plan faqs, what is a 3d printing business plan.

A 3D printing business plan is a plan to start and/or grow your 3D printing business. Among other things, it outlines your business concept, identifies your target customers, presents your marketing plan and details your financial projections.

You can easily complete your 3D Printing business plan using our 3D Printing Business Plan Template here .

What are the Main Types of 3D Printing Businesses?

There are a number of different kinds of 3D printing businesses , some examples include: Rapid Prototype Printer, Aerospace, Automotive and Railway Printer, or Consumer Products Printer.

How Do You Get Funding for Your 3D Printing Business Plan?

3D Printing businesses are often funded through small business loans. Personal savings, credit card financing and angel investors are also popular forms of funding.

What are the Steps To Start a 3D Printing Business?

Starting a 3D printing business can be an exciting endeavor. Having a clear roadmap of the steps to start a business will help you stay focused on your goals and get started faster.

1. Develop A 3D Printing Business Plan - The first step in starting a business is to create a detailed 3D printing business plan in PDF or doc, that outlines all aspects of the venture. This should include potential market size and target customers, the services or products you will offer, pricing strategies and a detailed financial forecast. 

2. Choose Your Legal Structure - It's important to select an appropriate legal entity for your 3D printing business. This could be a limited liability company (LLC), corporation, partnership, or sole proprietorship. Each type has its own benefits and drawbacks so it’s important to do research and choose wisely so that your 3D printing business is in compliance with local laws.

3. Register Your 3D Printing Business - Once you have chosen a legal structure, the next step is to register your 3D printing business with the government or state where you’re operating from. This includes obtaining licenses and permits as required by federal, state, and local laws.

4. Identify Financing Options - It’s likely that you’ll need some capital to start your 3D printing business, so take some time to identify what financing options are available such as bank loans, investor funding, grants, or crowdfunding platforms.

5. Choose a Location - Whether you plan on operating out of a physical location or not, you should always have an idea of where you’ll be based should it become necessary in the future as well as what kind of space would be suitable for your operations.

6. Hire Employees - There are several ways to find qualified employees including job boards like LinkedIn or Indeed as well as hiring agencies if needed – depending on what type of employees you need it might also be more effective to reach out directly through networking events.

7. Acquire Necessary 3D Printing Equipment & Supplies - In order to start your 3D printing business, you'll need to purchase all of the necessary equipment and supplies to run a successful operation.

8. Market & Promote Your Business - Once you have all the necessary pieces in place, it’s time to start promoting and marketing your 3D printing business. This includes creating a website, utilizing social media platforms like Facebook or Twitter, and having an effective Search Engine Optimization (SEO) strategy. You should also consider traditional marketing techniques such as radio or print advertising.

Learn more about how to start a successful 3D printing business:

• How to Start a 3D Printing Business

Small Business Trends

How to start a 3d printing business.

The 3D printing industry has experienced exponential growth in recent years, emerging as a transformative force in the world of technology. The burgeoning field offers many opportunities, thanks to the advent of rapid prototyping technology. Entrepreneurs and small business owners find themselves at the cusp of a revolution that promises innovation and a reshaping of traditional manufacturing methods. Here’s how you can start your own 3D printing business.

3D Printing and Additive Manufacturing Technology

Additive manufacturing serves as the cornerstone of 3D printing. If you’re considering 3D printing business ideas , this foundational knowledge is crucial.

The process involves layering materials to create intricate designs, thereby eliminating waste and enhancing efficiency. It has become an indispensable part of modern manufacturing, offering a more sustainable and precise product creation approach. If you’re wondering how to start a business in this sector, a deep understanding of these processes is essential. It has become an indispensable part of modern manufacturing, offering a more sustainable and precise approach to creating products.

Computer-aided design, or CAD, is another vital component in the 3D printing process.  It’s imperative to have a solid business plan that includes the use of this software. CAD software allows for the meticulous planning and designing of objects, serving as the digital blueprint for the additive manufacturing process. Without CAD, the precision and customization that 3D printing offers would be unattainable.

The Applications of 3D Printing

The transformative potential of 3D printing has not gone unnoticed; multiple industries have adopted this technology to solve complex challenges and improve efficiency.

In the healthcare sector, 3D printing has proven to be a game-changer. What is marketing strategy for such transformative technology? Medical professionals now utilize this technology to create custom prosthetics and implants. Tailoring these items to individual patient needs has led to improved outcomes and has significantly reduced production costs.

The automotive industry also has found immense value in 3D printing technology. Engineers employ it for rapid prototyping and parts manufacturing, enabling them to test and iterate designs with unprecedented speed. The efficiency has shortened the time from concept to production, fostering quicker innovation cycles.

For jewelry designers, 3D printing offers a new frontier of possibilities. However, the intricacies of running such a business require a comprehensive understanding of aspects like small business insurance to mitigate risks. The technology enables the crafting of intricate and complex designs that would be difficult, if not impossible, to achieve through traditional methods. This newfound capability allows designers to experiment freely, offering customers unique and personalized pieces.

Materials in 3D Printing: Plastics, Metals, and Beyond

Selecting the appropriate material for 3D printing is crucial for the success of your business.

Materials range from plastics and metals to ceramics and even bio-materials, each with unique properties that serve specific needs.

Understanding 3D printing materials such as the following can help businesses make informed decisions, ensuring the quality and functionality of their products.

• PLA (Polylactic Acid) : This biodegradable material serves as an excellent starting point for those new to 3D printing. Its environmental friendliness and ease of use make it a popular choice.
• ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) : Known for its robustness, ABS finds frequent use in the automotive industry. However, it necessitates a heated bed during the printing process.
• PETG (Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol) : Combining the user-friendliness of PLA with the strength of ABS, PETG offers a versatile option for various applications. It provides a good balance between ease of use and durability.
• Nylon : This material stands out for its impressive strength and flexibility. It is particularly suitable for creating functional parts that require both these attributes.
• Resin : Primarily used in SLA printers, resin allows for the creation of highly detailed prints. Post-processing is often required to achieve the final product.
• Metal : Employed mainly in industrial settings, metal offers unparalleled strength and durability. Specialized printers are necessary for metal 3D printing.
• Wood Fill : This unique material consists of a blend of PLA and wood fibers. It provides a wood-like finish and is often used for aesthetic or decorative items.
• TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane) : TPU is known for its flexibility, making it ideal for items that need to bend without breaking. Common applications include phone cases and flexible connectors.
• Carbon Fiber : Lightweight yet incredibly strong, carbon fiber is commonly used in aerospace and automotive industries. It is ideal for high-performance parts that require both strength and lightness.
• PVA (Polyvinyl Alcohol) : Often employed as a support material, PVA has the unique property of dissolving in water. This makes it easy to remove after the printing process, leaving the primary material intact.

Starting a 3D Printing Business

Embarking on the venture of establishing a 3D printing business involves a series of well-planned, sequential steps.

From crafting a compelling brand identity to securing the right equipment, each phase requires careful consideration and strategic planning.

Lucky for you, our comprehensive guide can walk you through the essential steps to launch your own business successfully, ensuring you are well-prepared for the challenges and opportunities ahead.

Crafting Your Business Name and Brand Identity

Choosing a business name that is both memorable and relevant is crucial for establishing a strong market presence.

This company brand serves as the initial touchpoint between your 3D printing business and potential customers. It sets the stage for a compelling brand identity that can resonate with your target audience, thereby becoming a cornerstone for all your marketing efforts.

A well-chosen name should reflect the essence of your business, be easy to spell and remember, and ideally include keywords related to 3D printing for better search engine optimization.

Once the name is decided, focus on creating a visually appealing logo and a consistent color scheme that can be used across various marketing materials and digital platforms.

This cohesive brand identity will not only make your business easily recognizable but also instill a sense of trust and reliability among potential clients

Identifying and Specializing in Your Target Market

In the competitive field of 3D printing, specializing in a niche market can offer a distinct advantage.

Conducting in-depth research on both your local market and other target markets is indispensable for success.

By understanding the unique needs and preferences of your prospective customers, you can tailor your services to meet those specific demands. This focused approach not only differentiates your business from competitors but also allows you to build a loyal customer base.

To choose the best target market or niche, consider factors such as market demand, competition, and profitability.

For example, you might specialize in medical prosthetics, automotive parts, or custom jewelry. Each of these niches has its own set of requirements and customer expectations, allowing you to fine-tune your business model and marketing strategies accordingly.

Developing Your Own Website for Your 3D Printing Business

A dedicated website acts as a digital storefront for your 3D printing business. It offers a platform to showcase your portfolio, list your services, and establish credibility.

Having a professional business website is not just an option but a necessity for business success in the digital age. A well-designed website also can serve as a tool for customer engagement, providing valuable insights into your target market’s preferences and behaviors.

To boost sales, consider implementing an e-commerce section where customers can place orders directly. Utilize search engine optimization techniques to increase visibility and attract more traffic.

Incorporate customer testimonials and case studies to build trust. By offering an intuitive user interface, secure payment options, and responsive design for mobile users, your website can become a powerful sales engine.

Crafting a Business Plan and Financial Projections

A robust business plan serves as the blueprint for your 3D printing business. It should include target market research, competitive analysis, and financial forecasts. These elements help you navigate the complexities of starting a business, from securing funding to scaling operations.

A well-crafted business plan can be the difference between success and failure, guiding you through each phase of your business development. When designing the most effective business plan for your 3D printing company, make sure to include the following:

• Target Market Research : Understanding your target market is crucial for business success. It helps you tailor your products and services to meet specific customer needs.
• Competitive Analysis : Knowing your competitors allows you to identify gaps in the market. This information can be leveraged to offer a unique value proposition.
• Financial Forecasts : Projecting your finances helps you prepare for various scenarios. It is essential for securing funding and guiding business decisions.
• Marketing Strategy : A well-defined marketing strategy outlines how you will attract and retain customers. It is vital for business growth and sustainability.
• Operational Plan : This details the logistics of running your business, from supply chain management to staffing. It is essential for day-to-day operations and long-term planning.

Setting Up a 3D Printing Workspace

Creating an optimal workspace for your 3D printing business is essential for both productivity and safety. Factors like ventilation, lighting, and ergonomics should be considered.

Likewise, safety precautions like fire extinguishers and first-aid kits are not just optional but mandatory.

A well-designed workspace not only enhances efficiency but also ensures the well-being of you and your employees. Proper organization can streamline operations, while adequate safety measures can prevent accidents, thereby creating a conducive environment for both creativity and business operations.

To further optimize your workspace, consider implementing a layout that allows for smooth workflow, from design stations to printing areas and post-processing spaces. Investing in high-quality, adjustable furniture can also contribute to better ergonomics, reducing fatigue and increasing productivity.

Investing in Machines, Software, and Maintenance

Investing in the right 3D printers and CAD software is crucial for the success of your business. These tools are your primary production units and design platforms.

The sheer number of tools and equipment might overwhelm an entrepreneur starting a 3D printing company, so we’ve offered a head start with the following recommendations:

• 3D Printers : Printers are the backbone of your operation. Depending on the quality and capabilities, a 3D printer can cost anywhere from $1,000 to $10,000 for professional-grade machines.
• CAD Software : CAD software is where your designs come to life before printing. Software licenses can range from free open-source options to professional packages costing up to $2,000 per year.
• Slicing Software : The software converts your 3D design into instructions for your printer. Costs can vary, with some free options and the price of others ranging from $150 to almost $5,000 per year.
• Calipers and Measurement Tools : Accurate measurements are crucial for quality. Basic sets can start at around $20, with more sophisticated tools priced as much as $400.
• Filament or Resin : These are the materials your printer will use. Costs can range from $20 to $50 per kilogram for filament and $150 to $400 per liter of professional resin.
• Ventilation System : Proper ventilation is essential for safety, especially when printing with materials that emit fumes. Systems can range from $100 to $500.
• Workbench or Table : A sturdy work surface is essential for setting up your printer and workspace. Prices can start as low as $100 for basic tables.
• Uninterruptible Power Supply : To prevent disruptions during power outages, a UPS is advisable. These can cost between $100 and $300.
• Maintenance Kit : Regular upkeep requires tools like grease, tweezers, and cleaning solutions. A basic kit may cost around $50.

Regular maintenance of this equipment is equally important to ensure consistent quality and to prolong the lifespan of your machines.

Failing to maintain your equipment can result in costly downtimes and compromised product quality. Therefore, it’s essential to allocate resources not just for initial investment but also for ongoing maintenance and potential upgrades, ensuring that your business remains competitive and up-to-date .

Opening a Business Bank Account

Maintaining a clear distinction between personal and business finances is crucial for effective financial management. A separate business bank account aids in transparent record-keeping, simplifies tax-related processes, and enhances your business’s credibility.

The financial segregation is not merely a best practice, but often a legal requirement, ensuring that you meet compliance standards and are prepared for any financial scrutiny.

Arranging Business Finances

Securing initial investment and ongoing funding is a critical aspect of starting and running a 3D printing business. A variety of avenues, from bank loans to venture capital and crowdfunding, can be explored for this purpose. Each option comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages, making it crucial to carefully assess your business needs and financial health before making a decision.

Understanding the terms and obligations associated with each funding source can save you from future financial pitfalls. Some of the more common ways to fund a new small business include:

• Bank Loans : Traditional bank loans offer a reliable but often stringent route for financing. They usually require a detailed business plan and financial projections.
• Venture Capital : This involves selling a stake in your business to investors. It’s a suitable option for businesses with high growth potential but can dilute ownership.
• Crowdfunding : Online platforms allow you to raise small amounts from a large number of people. It’s a way to validate the market but can require significant marketing efforts.
• Angel Investors : These are affluent individuals who provide capital in exchange for equity or debt. They may also offer valuable business advice.
• Grants and Subsidies : Some governments and organizations offer grants that don’t need to be repaid. However, these usually have stringent eligibility criteria and may require you to match funds.

Securing Business Insurance

Understanding the types of risks associated with a 3D printing business is crucial for long-term success. Given the intricate nature of 3D printed products and the machinery involved, securing appropriate business insurance is not just advisable but essential.

Business insurance policies such as the following provide a safety net against unforeseen events, from equipment damage to legal challenges, thereby safeguarding your investment and reputation.

• General Liability Insurance : This covers legal fees and damages if your business is sued. It’s essential for protecting against financial losses.
• Property Insurance : This protects your physical assets, such as machinery and office space. It’s crucial if you own valuable equipment.
• Workers’ Compensation : If an employee gets injured on the job, this insurance covers their medical expenses. It’s often legally required.
• Product Liability Insurance : This is particularly important for 3D printing businesses, as it covers damages caused by your products.
• Cyber Liability Insurance : Given the digital nature of 3D printing designs, this insurance protects against data breaches and cyber-attacks.

Considering Intellectual Property

Navigating the complex world of intellectual property is a critical aspect of running a 3D printing business. Whether you are creating original designs or printing based on client specifications, understanding copyrights and patents is essential.

Failure to do so can result in legal complications that can be both time-consuming and costly. Therefore, it’s advisable to consult legal experts to ensure that both your designs and those of your clients are adequately protected. (100 words)

Ensuring Quality and Consistency with Skills and Training

CAD software’s role in 3D printing cannot be overstated. Mastery of this technological tool is essential for ensuring high-quality outputs. Whether you are self-taught, have completed online courses, or have undergone formal training, continuous learning is crucial.

Keeping abreast of the latest software updates and industry best practices can significantly impact the quality and consistency of your 3D printed products.

Marketing and Branding for Your 3D Printing Business

Effective marketing and branding are vital components of any successful 3D printing business. From crafting a unique identity to leveraging client testimonials, the following strategies will enhance your market presence and attract a loyal customer base:

• Crafting a Unique Identity : Establishing a unique brand identity sets you apart from competitors. It involves everything from logo design to the tone of your marketing messages.
• Leveraging Client Testimonials : Positive reviews from satisfied customers can serve as powerful endorsements. They not only build trust but also provide social proof that can attract new clients.
• Using Visual Portfolios : Showcasing your work through visual portfolios allows potential clients to gauge your capabilities. It’s an effective way to demonstrate your expertise and the quality of your work.
• Social Media Engagement : Utilizing platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn can help you reach a wider audience. Regular posts featuring your latest projects or sharing industry news can keep your audience engaged and attract new followers.
• Email Marketing : Sending out regular newsletters with updates, promotions, or educational content can keep your brand at the forefront of your clients’ minds. It’s a cost-effective way to maintain ongoing engagement and encourage repeat business.

Customer Service and After-Sales Support

Providing exemplary customer service is paramount, especially in a technical field like 3D printing. The complexity of the technology often necessitates specialized support, making it crucial for businesses to offer comprehensive after-sales services.

Post-purchase support can range from troubleshooting and maintenance guides to software updates and part replacements. Offering robust after-sales support not only enhances customer satisfaction but also encourages repeat business.

By establishing a reputation for excellent customer service, your business can build long-lasting relationships with clients. Such customer loyalty is invaluable, as it not only contributes to consistent revenue but also fosters long-term success through word-of-mouth recommendations.

Sustainability and Ethical Considerations in 3D Printing

Operating responsibly in the 3D printing business involves more than just financial considerations. It also includes being mindful of waste, material sourcing, and energy consumption. The production process often generates waste material, making it essential to implement recycling or reusing strategies.

Ethical sourcing of materials, especially metals and polymers, is another consideration that can set your business apart in an increasingly eco-conscious market. Adopting energy-efficient machinery and optimizing operational processes for minimal energy consumption can further reduce your environmental footprint.

By embracing these sustainable practices, your business can not only reduce its environmental impact but also appeal to a growing segment of eco-conscious consumers, thereby gaining a competitive edge.

Diversifying Revenue Streams

Expanding your service offerings can provide additional revenue streams and mitigate risks associated with market volatility. A variety of supplementary services can be offered by a 3D printing business, including:

• 3D Scanning : Offering 3D scanning services can complement your printing services. It allows for the quick and accurate capture of physical objects into digital form.
• Design Consultation : Providing design consultation adds another layer of value to your services. It can help clients optimize their designs for 3D printing, saving them time and resources.
• Workshops : Conducting workshops on 3D printing techniques and software can serve as both a revenue stream and a marketing tool. It positions you as an expert in the field.
• Custom Material Sales : Selling specialized printing materials like unique filaments or resins can attract a niche customer base. This not only diversifies your income but also encourages repeat business from clients who appreciate the quality of your materials.
• Prototyping Services : Offering rapid prototyping can attract businesses looking to test out new products before mass production. This service can command higher prices due to its specialized nature and the added value it provides to clients.

Keeping Up with Technological Advancements

The world of 3D printing is ever-evolving, making it imperative to stay updated with the latest technological advancements. Regular training and continuous learning are not optional but essential.

Subscribing to industry publications, attending relevant webinars, and participating in specialized workshops can provide valuable insights. These educational avenues keep you informed about new materials, software updates, and emerging techniques.

By proactively investing in ongoing education and training, you equip yourself and your team with the knowledge needed to adapt to new technologies.

FAQs: How to Start a 3D Printing Business

What is in high demand for 3d printing.

The demand for 3D printing spans multiple industries, with particular growth in the medical, aerospace, and automotive sectors. Medical applications like prosthetics and implants are increasingly popular. Aerospace companies utilize 3D printing for lightweight components, while the automotive industry employs it for rapid prototyping and parts manufacturing. Consumer goods and architectural models also are also experiencing rising demand in the 3D printing market.

How much does it cost to start a 3D printing business?

The initial investment for starting a 3D printing business can vary widely based on several factors, including the quality of the equipment, the scale of the operation, and the location. Costs can range from a few thousand dollars for a small, home-based operation to upwards of $100,000 for a larger, more sophisticated setup. This estimate includes the cost of 3D printers, CAD software, workspace setup, and initial marketing materials.

Which niche markets are the most profitable?

Profitability in 3D printing often comes from specialization. Niche markets such as custom medical devices, aerospace components, and limited-edition consumer goods tend to offer higher profit margins. These specialized markets often have less competition and allow for premium pricing due to the complex, customized nature of the products. Thus, identifying and focusing on a profitable niche can significantly impact the financial success of a 3D printing business.

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How To Start A 3D Printing Business

If you're wondering how to start a 3d printing business of your own, this guide on starting a 3d printing business is best for you..

3D printing is no longer a surprise in 2024. Even though it took time for it to be noticed after its start in the 1980s, the next five years should see an average growth of 23.5%.

In one study, 3D artists make an average of $53,000 a year , but these figures include those working for corporations rather than themselves.

The 3D printing industry continues to innovate and grow, providing aspiring entrepreneurs with numerous options to create designs on demand.

The use of 3D printing is known to be environmentally friendly, produces zero waste , and is a more cost-effective option than traditional manufacturing.

The increased market value led to a boom in interest in 3D printing businesses. 3D printing provides a wide variety of niches in which to develop a business.

Even though each type of 3D printing business has its own requirements to get started, there are some general things you can do to make the process of setting up a business easier.

1. Decide what kind of 3D printer you want to be

3D printing can be used in many different ways. Thus, there are many different niches for 3D printing businesses to profit from. Examples include 3D printing prototypes and manufacturing components, setting up a local 3D printing service, and 3D printing toys.

3D printing of prototypes and models

Nearly 65% of the 3D printing market is driven by engineers developing industrial, electrical, or consumer products. Also, industries such as architecture, engineering, technology, and medicine need models of devices, parts, and chemical compounds.

3D printed parts and components not only reduce production time but also lower costs. Therefore, a 3D printing business that assists other businesses with these needs can be quite profitable.

3D printing service

A local 3D printing service might also be a good idea. While several businesses utilize 3D printing in their production process, not every business can afford one. This makes a 3D printing service more efficient than traditional research and manufacturing methods for these businesses.

In addition, 3D printing services can produce work for individuals who need their own 3D printed products. As an example, students may need a 3D printed model for a school project. Artists may use 3D printed models for art projects.

Sell custom 3D printed products

The customization industry is huge. With 3D printing, you can customize anything. Who doesn’t like unique and different items?

Even one chooses a mobile cover based on his or her tastes. Considering your target audience will help you determine what you want to print.

Collectibles and figures of athletes, movie stars, singers, and movie avatars would be some of the best choices for kidswear businesses when it comes to 3D printing.

If you want to attract youths , 3D printing custom mobile cases, shoes, jewelry, and many other items are sure to work. You are only limited by your creativity.

If you wish to sell 3D printed customized parts to companies, you can start by selecting a niche.

2. Plan your 3D printing startup costs

Business formation fees.

• Creating an LLC or corporation $70 to $600  (required)
• Insurance for small businesses between $300 and $2,000  (recommended)
• Fees for permits and licenses $100 to $800 (optional)
• Lawyer Fees $0 to $1,000 (optional)

Expenses related to inventory

• The upfront costs for inventory range from $300 to $5,000

3. Create a legal entity

Find out how to form an llc yourself.

Learn about llc formation, including information on registered agents, naming rules, business licenses, and more.

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4. Tax registration

Before you can open for business, you will have to register for a variety of state and federal taxes. To register for taxes, you will need an EIN.

Your EIN can be obtained for free through the IRS website, via fax, or by mail. Read our article What is an EIN ? to learn more about EINs and how they can benefit your LLC.

5. Obtain necessary permits and licenses

Your 3d printing business must adhere to city, state, and federal regulations. To avoid legal snags, make sure you are familiar with the business laws in your area.

The failure to obtain necessary permits and licenses can result in heavy fines or even the closure of your business.

Operating a 3D printing design business may require state permits and licenses. In most states, businesses must collect sales tax on the goods or services they sell.

6. Copyright & Trademark Protection

When developing a unique product or concept, you should register for trademarks and copyrights to protect your rights.

7. Protect your business with insurance

In addition to licenses and permits, your business needs insurance in order to operate legally and safely. A business insurance plan protects your company’s financial health in case of a covered loss.

Insurance policies are available for a variety of businesses with a variety of risks. If you’re not sure what risks your business may face, begin by purchasing General Liability Insurance . 

It’s the most common coverage small businesses need, so it’s a great place to start.

Workers’ Compensation Insurance is another policy many businesses require. If you plan to hire employees, it’s quite possible that your state will require that you carry workers’ compensation insurance.

8. Make your business website

Creating a website for your business is the next step after defining your brand and creating your logo. The following are the main reasons why you shouldn’t delay building your website:

• All legitimate businesses have websites. Getting your business online doesn’t matter what your business’s size or industry is.
• Facebook pages and LinkedIn business profiles are not a replacement for a business website you own.
• Tools like the GoDaddy Website Builder make it extremely easy to create a basic website.

Recommended: If you want to improve your conversion rates, and maximize your revenue to help grow your business and achieve your goals. It is always best to hire professional web design services to develop your company’s website.

4 Key Success Factors Printing Businesses

Despite the challenges of the 3D printing and prototyping businesses, We have identified five factors that can help you boost profitability, efficiency, and ultimately success.

• Ability to adopt new technology quickly: 3D printing and rapid prototyping companies must adapt to technological advancements to attract more consumers.
• Close monitoring of the competition: Its low concentration encourages competition among smaller companies seeking to enter a new market. To remain competitive, industry companies must closely follow their competitors.
• Having a good understanding of the service: As this industry caters to a wide range of industries, companies must understand the appropriate processes associated with each industry.
• Contracts with key suppliers in place: It is necessary for companies to source several input materials for the printing process. It is important that companies maintain good relationships with suppliers of these materials.

These 4 factors are essential for the success of printing businesses , resulting ultimately in higher sales and brand awareness, but most importantly, higher profits.

Want to Get Top-Quality 3D Printing Business Plan?

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The Highlights Of Our Recently Developed 3D Printing Business Plan

Market analysis summary: 3d printing business plan.

The Custom Screen Printing industry has declined over the five years to 2020. The industry generates most of its revenue from printing on apparel and other nonpaper materials, services it performs for both consumers and businesses.

Since 2015, decreasing corporate profit, despite improving disposable income levels, has weakened both consumer and commercial demand for the industry’s custom printing services. 

As a result, the Custom Screen Printing industry has decreased similarly to other printing segments.

Over the five years to 2020, industry revenue fell at an annualized 2.2% to $7.7 billion. In 2020, the COVID-19 (coronavirus) pandemic and an economic slowdown are expected to reduce demand for industry products by reducing consumer spending drastically.

The industry is also affected by social distancing policies preventing large gatherings, such as family reunions, summer camps and fundraisers, which require custom T-shirts. As a result, industry revenue decreased by 18.0% in 2020 alone.

Product and Services

Screen printing on apparel items is the largest segment in the Custom Screen Printing industry, accounting for an estimated 49.4% of revenue in 2020. 

The process of screen printing on apparel items such as T-shirts and sweaters is a multistep process that can be performed by businesses and consumers alike.

While this segment experienced a lower level of demand in 2015 due to slow growth in consumer spending, its share of the industry has expanded significantly over the five years to 2020 as consumer spending has increased overall. 

The apparel printing product segment is expected to be greatly affected by the COVID-19 (coronavirus) pandemic due to social distancing policies.

Many large events, which have now been canceled, sell or require custom T-shirts such as a concert. The cancellation of these large events has negatively affected the product segment in 2020 .

3D Printing Business Plan FAQ's

For artists who have previously created physical works (i.e. statues and carvings), this business is ideal. Taking a good idea and using a combination of software and artistic skills to make it into a reality is the most important part of this job.

Start-up costs for 3D printing businesses depend on the type of focus you choose. However, the setup cost ranges from $5,00 to $20,000 for a 3D printing business. It depends on the type of 3D printer that you choose, utilities, rent (if you do not work from home), software, and marketing.

This is possible, but business consultants and writers are experts at this. Using a variety of valuation metrics, they understand what goals you should set for your custom screen printing business. Through them, you can set timelines for reaching those goals. You’ll benefit from their expertise in marketing tactics, financials, and customer acquisition strategies while saving time so you can focus on other aspects of your business.

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Start » business ideas, 10 innovative 3d printing business ideas.

Advances in 3D, or additive, printing offer endless opportunities for tech enthusiasts.

3D printing, also known as additive printing, is an industry that continues to innovate and grow, offering a multitude of opportunities for the aspiring entrepreneur to print designs on demand. This technology-driven discipline utilizes computer aided design (CAD) and a specialty printer to create detailed solid (3D) objects, primarily using thermoplastics and a growing list of materials, through a sophisticated layering method that allows items of any shape or size to be created with precision.

3D printing is environmentally efficient, known for producing zero waste, and it is a lower cost option than traditional manufacturing. It is expected that by 2025, the global 3D printing and services market will reach $50 billion . Starting a small 3D printing business requires a 3D printer, as well as plastic filament reels and design software for beginners. Identifying your niche and allowing for personalization is key. The businesses below are primed for at-home startup and offer something for every interest and expertise.

You can build a successful 3D printing business by producing prototypes for others with a quick turnaround time. Entrepreneurs with a vision or design that they hope to bring to life look to 3D printing experts for rapid, lower cost options for product development compared to traditional manufacturing methods. There are a lot of prototype production services, so building an expertise and a solid reputation in a particular niche could be beneficial. You can increase your success if you are an engineer and are adept at retooling, refining and offering ways to improve upon a design.

The growth in popularity of customization has had a major impact on the eyeglass market. Eyeglasses wearers can drive the design process for 3D eyeglasses, creating distinctive frames that fit their style and comfort needs through measurements taken by a 3D scanner. The category, from reading glasses to sports goggles, is expected to see significant growth, worth a projected $500 million by the end of 2027. Considering 45% of eyewear goes unsold and is discarded each year, 3D printed eyewear presents a lot of efficiencies for manufacturing and the environment. The nylon powder used to make 3D eyewear can be reused, eliminating waste unlike traditionally made eyewear.

Toys are among the easiest items to create with 3D printing and are sought-after items among those who are always looking to add to their doll, action figure, fidget spinner, toy car/truck and bath toy collections. Chess or board game pieces are hot 3D printed items that enhance the gaming experience via customization and personalization. Of course, 3D printing also has great implications for toy replacements and replacement parts — after all, who wouldn’t want to be a hero in salvaging a child’s beloved doll or action figure? But there are also safety regulations and copyright laws to consider. While intellectual property laws often consider items produced for private means to be fair trade, copying trademarked or patented proprietary designs can lead to legal action and penalties.

More and more jewelry designers are using 3D printing to produce their pieces, from rings to bracelets to earrings. Between 2020-2024, the 3D jewelry business is forecasted to grow by $1.95 billion , a 21% compound annual growth rate (CAGR). The popularity can be attributed to the efficiency in creating intricately detailed designs and the significantly quicker production times. There are 3D jewelry printers that allow for casting and are better able to utilize metals, nylons and other materials specific to jewelry making. Oftentimes, designers will start with a plastic model and make adjustments to the design until perfect and then produce the piece in metal. To get started, 3Design , Matrix and JewelCAD all offer design software specifically for jewelry printing. For those who prefer to focus solely on the design process and leave the 3D printing to someone else, there are several services who will take your 3D design model and produce the finished product.

The legal arena has had an increased demand for 3D printing that can help to recreate anything from defective products in liability cases to crime scenes in criminal cases.

Spare parts

Specializing in 3D printing of spare parts can be very lucrative. Manufacturers are often faced with the challenges producing spare parts present in terms of cost and inventory. Many simply do not have the space to house all the parts that go into assembling their products or the budgets that are required to make and stock them. Add to that the delays in ordering parts from overseas and the impact that has on customer relationships and businesses can find themselves in trouble when repairs or replacements are needed. One solution is for manufacturers to digitize a catalog of parts that can be printed on demand. As a small business specializing in spare parts, you can be the source for local service providers and tradespeople to look to when a replacement or special fitting is required. Decentralizing manufacturing helps to shorten or eliminate the carbon footprint of transporting parts, a major advancement toward greater sustainability.

Promotional products

If you have ever tried to order custom items for promotional purposes or for an event, the minimum quantities required often make it prohibitive and the long lead times mean merchandise takes weeks, if not months, to arrive. Enter 3D printing. With a 3D printer, you can get the word out to local businesses, politicians, families and schools that you have the ability to turn around products that creatively brand their messages, businesses, parties/events and travels in no time, without minimum quantities. Promotional goods are expected to represent over $15 billion in sales in 2021. Eco-friendly products and work-from-home goods are among the hottest trends in promotional items. While most businesses will already have established logos and graphics from which to work from, if you happen to have graphic design skill, you can leverage that for greater profitability.

Printer rental

With the cost of a 3D printer averaging around $1,000, many entrepreneurs who would like to explore implications of the technology on their ideas just don’t have the money to invest and test. There is also a market for those in need of short term access for a small scale project. If you have the resources, you can make considerable money renting or leasing out your 3D printer and materials to commercial and residential customers. Start with a Google Business listing, a website with photos, social media advertising and word-of-mouth brand building. It’s a good idea to differentiate the pricing between private customers and commercial businesses. Weekly rentals could garner a couple hundred per week or $500-$600 monthly, plus cost of supplies and training.

For those with a passion for home decor, 3D printing lends itself well to the housewares market. Vases, lamps, planters, photo frames, dishes, drinkware, placemats and cutlery are all easily produced through additive printing. Complex designs with unique textures and finishes can be printed with relative ease. The key is to develop a unique aesthetic and define your niche. Set up an e-commerce site from which to feature your designs and then print on demand to customer specs. At the same time you can leverage existing traffic on sites like Etsy where customers are always looking for interesting and unique home decor that reflects their personal style and a desire for one-of-a kind items.

Smartphone cases

Smartphone cases are one of those accessories that people often like to reflect their personality or tastes. They are also something people quickly tire of and like to change up often, however valuing protective features remains a constant in their purchasing decisions. If you have a good eye for what’s trending in design, fashion and pop culture and can design to the tastes and interests of customers while offering protective features and materials, a 3D smartphone printing business can be a great small business opportunity. In 2019, the global revenue for protective smartphone cases was $21.67 billion with an expected CAGR of 6.3% between 2019-2027. On average, one large spool of filament makes approximately 200 smartphone cases and there are many variations of filaments , depending on the type of case and durability desired.

Forensic evidence

Dream job alert for "CSI" or "Law & Order" fans: The legal arena has had an increased demand for 3D printing that can help recreate anything from defective products in liability cases to crime scenes in criminal cases. Imagine being tasked with 3D printing the fingerprints of a suspect or cars that can be used to simulate an accident. Many medical malpractice suits require anatomically correct body parts and can garner hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars to bring to life.

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17 3D Printing Business Ideas

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One of the coolest and latest technologies to find popularity in the last few years is the 3D printer. While starting a business in the 3D printing industry would be an interesting endeavor for any entrepreneur, there’s also another pro to consider.

Even though the technology for 3D printing has been around for a while, the market is still finding new ways to innovate and apply the technology. If you’re looking for 3D printing business ideas, there’s no shortage of possibilities.

B2C product production

There are a lot of different 3D printing business ideas, and one exciting subset is B2C (business to consumer) product production. Within this area of 3D printing, you can create products to sell to consumers. 3D-printed products are attractive to customers because of their novelty, but they can also be great for business because they use less material, waste less and generally weigh less (and therefore cost less to ship). Here are some ideas to get you started.

1. Customized earbuds

We all know the feeling of finding the perfect set of earbuds. They stay put, have great sound quality and they don’t make your ears hurt. Checking all of these boxes isn’t easy, which also means customers are often willing to pay for the perfect set of buds.

Consider this: Earbuds customized to fit your ear and your style. With this 3D printing business idea, customers no longer have to sacrifice style for comfort or compromise sound quality for fit.

While this isn’t a new idea — most hearing aids are already being 3D printed — it’s a business where there’s still plenty of space to compete in.

Using a smartphone app, customers take a picture of each ear, submit it, choose their styling options and pay. The earbuds are then printed and sent to the customer for a perfect fit. If you’re looking to start a physical location and serve your local community, you can also have customers come into your store to fit them for their perfect pair of earbuds.

2. Customized collectibles

While tastes and trends change, collecting will never go out of style. Fans love to collect figurines and collectible items for their favorite athletes, artists, gamers, singer and celebrities of any type. With this 3D printing business idea, the potential opportunities are endless. While the focus is collectibles, you can focus your business within a wide variety of niches, expanding as your business grows.

One of the benefits of this type of 3D printing business is that the inventory is small and lightweight, therefore easy to store and ship. This is especially important if you’re starting your business out of your home.

3. 3D printing education

While not quite as glamorous as some of the other 3D printing business ideas on this list, there’s plenty of space within the niche to teach the ins and outs of 3D printing for those looking to start their own 3D printing businesses.

For most people, 3D printing is a total unknown. You can cover the basics, dive deep on certain topics and just generally provide information that people will find interesting and educational. There are a lot of forms that this type of 3D printing business could take, including a blog, vlog or social media-based business.

How much do you need?

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We’ll start with a brief questionnaire to better understand the unique needs of your business.

Once we uncover your personalized matches, our team will consult you on the process moving forward.

B2B product production

If you’re not sure the B2C 3D printing business ideas work for you, turn your attention to these B2B (business to business) options. The B2B space has a lot more range and options for the kind of business you can operate. Working with other businesses means that you don’t have to work directly with consumers, which can alleviate the need for a customer service or large marketing department.

4. Improve upon existing products

There are so many products for sale on the market — seriously, just look at Amazon. But, many of those items are difficult to make, waste materials during production or aren’t cost-effective to produce. 3D printing can change that.

While this will require a good amount of creativity, if you have the vision to reimagine how something is made to make it better, more sustainable or more cost-effective, you can turn to 3D printing. You might also take an existing product design and make it better or easier to use for the consumer. Another potential way to improve upon current products is to add customization.

5. Promotional products

Companies are always looking for new, interesting products to add their logo to and give away to potential customers. A 3D printer can make anything, opening up a lot of options for companies who are looking for innovative promotional products. Get creative and start producing something they’ve never seen before and you’re sure to have tons of business.

In addition to offering your services to companies, consider also working with ad agencies who have a long list of clients who are always in need of creative promotional materials.

6. Detailed models

While many businesses have moved to creating models in the digital space as much of the time as they can, at some point, they still have to create a working model. A 3D printing business can produce these models for various businesses.

Any industry that needs highly detailed models on a short timeline will want to work with a 3D printing company. A 3D printer is able to achieve a higher level of detail in a shorter period of time than any other methods.

If you’re interested in printing 3D models for other businesses, look to museums, architecture firms, interior design agencies and inventors to get started.

7. E-commerce supplier

A common way to get started in the B2B sector is to work with large e-commerce suppliers. Most e-commerce suppliers work with factories overseas to manufacture products. These e-commerce suppliers work with a lot of different products and a large amount of inventory. If you can produce the supply that they need at a reasonable cost with a 3D printer, they’ll be very interested in working with you.

One of the major benefits of production with a 3D printer is the quality and detail of the product. You might even consider producing specific, intricate parts for a larger item. If you can save them money on the production costs for a complicated part that’s then added to a larger product, you’re in business.

Start Your Dream Business

Medical industry

While there are numerous 3D printing business ideas, one of the most interesting areas where business owners are innovating and creating new products with 3D printers is in the medical field. If you’re interested in improving technology and making the world a better place, the medical field is a great place to get started with one of these 3D printing business ideas.

8. Pill production

In 2015, the FDA approved the first 3D-printed pill . While most 3D printers work with materials such as plastic or aluminum, there’s also the option to print with numerous other materials. Certain materials are being used to create more effective medication that dissolves quickly and can be ingested more easily than traditional pills. If you already have a medical background but are looking for a new business venture, this may be the perfect fit.

9. Medical implants

Medical technology is rapidly changing and one of the many innovations helping to speed along that change is the 3D printer. As has been pointed out in other 3D printer business ideas on this list, one of the biggest benefits of 3D printing is the ability to customize.

Using a 3D printer to create medical implants means that each implant is perfectly created and customized for the patient who is going to use it. Innovators are even looking into 3D-printed tissue and organs. That innovation is still on the horizon, but they’re already 3D printing medical implants such as titanium bone implants and orthodontic devices, among many others.

10. Prosthetics

Another place where customization can really improve the medical field is with prosthetics. 3D printing of prosthetics can make them fit better and be more comfortable for the wearer and be more affordable to produce. That’s a win-win.

Within the 3D printing of prosthetics, there are a lot of niches to fill. You can produce prosthetic limbs, artificial teeth or support products such as wheelchairs and other mobility tools.

Technology and invention

Another really exciting space for 3D printing business ideas is within technology and innovation. There are many things happening within this space, some of which can even be improved by the technology afforded by the 3D printer.

11. Rapid prototyping

As any startup that’s building a new product or inventing something new knows, you have to have a working prototype. Many businesses spend a lot of time and money working up models and testing prototypes before they get it right. A 3D printer can make prototyping faster and more cost-effective. Once a prototype is printed, it’s simple to adjust the model and make changes before reprinting a new version. Iterating has never been so easy.

12. Electronic assembly

As technological products and motherboards get smaller and smaller, assembly gets more difficult and costly. There’s already a market for 3D printing laptop cases to cover the internal technology seamlessly and there’s lots of money being funneled into new technological innovations around 3D printing and technology. Robots printed by 3D printers? You bet.

For the savvy researcher and creative entrepreneur, there’s tons of space to get into electronic assembly with 3D printing.

Fashion and art

The 3D printer is the perfect catalyst for the intersection between technology and art. Many artists are always looking for the next big thing and how they can use that to inform their art and its impact on society. While you don’t have to be the next Andy Warhol, you certainly can use one of these 3D printing business ideas to expand your artist expression.

13. Sustainable, customized fashion

One of the many benefits of 3D printing is the sustainability in how materials are used and how little is wasted. Some 3D printers can even use recycled materials, such as plastic bottles, to print from.

If you’re looking to get into the fashion industry and want a cutting edge manufacturing style, 3D printing might just be the way to go. You can print accessories, jewelry, shoes or anything else you can think of. Even Adidas is getting into the 3D printing action .

14. Customized glasses frames

Who doesn’t love a stylish pair of sunglasses or eyeglasses? With businesses such as Warby Parker and EyeBuyDirect booming, this is a cool niche to get into. While glasses and sunglasses are functional, they can also be stylish.

Where does a 3D printer give you a leg up on the competition? Customization. No one's face is quite the same as the next person nor do most people have symmetrical ears. This all comes together for uncomfortable glasses and sunglasses. You can fix that with customized 3D-printed glasses.

15. Make your own art

Here’s a 3D printing business idea for those who are truly innovative and have their creative juices flowing. Make your own art. Yes, this business idea is nebulous, but that’s the fun. Art is all about creating something new, something that no one else has ever thought of before. All you need is an idea and a 3D printer. Plus, you can even sell your art online to keep overhead costs low.

Manufacturing

We can’t overlook the manufacturing industry in our list of 3D printing business ideas. Here are some options to consider.

16. Custom-made tools

Many manufacturing companies use custom-made tools. Those tools have to be painstakingly made just for them. Anything done in limited numbers raises costs. Unless you’re making it using a 3D printer. So, if you’re handy with tools and understand the tooling business, this just might be the right 3D printing business idea for you.

17. Rare spare parts

If you’ve ever owned a rare or older car, you know that repairs can be expensive and a headache. After a long enough period of time, there just aren’t spare parts. So, many restorers are making new parts. Instead of having them manufactured in the traditional way, they’re looking to 3D printers, which are much less time-consuming and more cost-effective.

On a similar note...

How to Start a 3D Printing Design Business

A 3D printing business is usually affiliated with a larger business such as Shapeways. The benefit to this is that you focus on creating 3D designs and taking orders while Shapeways prints the actual objects. The eventual profits are then split between yourself and Shapeways.

You may also be interested in additional online business ideas .

Learn how to start your own 3D Printing Design Business and whether it is the right fit for you.

Ready to form your LLC? Check out the Top LLC Formation Services .

Start a 3D Printing Design Business by following these 10 steps:

• Plan your 3D Printing Design Business
• Form your 3D Printing Design Business into a Legal Entity
• Register your 3D Printing Design Business for Taxes
• Open a Business Bank Account & Credit Card
• Set up Accounting for your 3D Printing Design Business
• Get the Necessary Permits & Licenses for your 3D Printing Design Business
• Get 3D Printing Design Business Insurance
• Define your 3D Printing Design Business Brand
• Create your 3D Printing Design Business Website
• Set up your Business Phone System

We have put together this simple guide to starting your 3D Printing Design Business. These steps will ensure that your new business is well planned out, registered properly and legally compliant.

Exploring your options? Check out other small business ideas .

STEP 1: Plan your business

A clear plan is essential for success as an entrepreneur. It will help you map out the specifics of your business and discover some unknowns. A few important topics to consider are:

What will you name your business?

• What are the startup and ongoing costs?
• Who is your target market?

How much can you charge customers?

Luckily we have done a lot of this research for you.

Choosing the right name is important and challenging. If you don’t already have a name in mind, visit our How to Name a Business guide or get help brainstorming a name with our 3D Printing Design Business Name Generator

If you operate a sole proprietorship , you might want to operate under a business name other than your own name. Visit our DBA guide to learn more.

When registering a business name , we recommend researching your business name by checking:

• Your state's business records
• Federal and state trademark records
• Social media platforms
• Web domain availability .

It's very important to secure your domain name before someone else does.

Want some help naming your 3D Printing Design Business?

Business name generator, what are the costs involved in opening a 3d printing design business.

The costs involved in opening such a business are minimal. Most shops start out of someone's home, so there is no expensive lease or utilities to pay every month, nor any staff salaries to pay. If you will be working with Shapeways, you do not have to have a 3D printer: you simply upload designs to them, sell the products through your own website, and split profits with Shapeways. If you are buying your own 3D printer, you can typically find a commercial model you need for $6,000 or less, though there are models available in a variety of price points. Otherwise, your primary cost will be creating a professional website (typically about $500) and advertising your services (most advertising will be done online, so your starting advertising budget may be $2,000 or less).

What are the ongoing expenses for a 3D Printing Design Business?

Part of the beauty of this job is that there are very few ongoing expenses. As a home-based job, your only guaranteed costs will be to pay to host your professional website (typically less than one hundred dollars a year); you may opt to continue paying for advertising, which will typically be five hundred dollars or less per month. Other than that, though, you only need to re-stock materials (assuming you are printing the items yourself) when you get orders, and you will price items to take materials into account. If you are printing through Shapeways, then you will price items to compensate for the fee that they will take (you set a markup for each item sold, and this is the money you make, minus a 3.5% transaction fee).

Who is the target market?

This is one business where your preferred clients may vary greatly depending on your area and if you choose to specialize in printing certain things. One group that may become your favorite is hobbyists. From collectors wanting to replace parts for their model trains to gamers wanting you to print objects for their roleplaying campaign, hobbyists are that rare group that has very niche interests and the disposable income to accommodate those interests.

How does a 3D Printing Design Business make money?

A 3D printing business makes money by printing and delivering 3D versions of shapes and objects to customers. You may also make money by taking design requests from customers who cannot find the shapes they want printed anywhere else.

The price for your items will vary greatly according to their size, complexity, and the materials used. For instance, in the tabletop gaming niche, you might charge four dollars for a small item like a miniature shopping cart. Conversely, you might charge upwards of two hundred dollars for large, complex terrain to be used in a tabletop war game. If you are printing through Shapeways, then they will help determine the price of the item using those same factors. The more niche your item, the more you can effectively charge, as customers have nowhere else to obtain that item.

How much profit can a 3D Printing Design Business make?

The exact amount of profit you can make is difficult to determine. One research company estimates that 3D artists make an average of $53,000 a year, but that is counting those who do such work for corporations rather than themselves. Regardless, your actual profit is like that of any other specialty shop: if you find the right combination of diverse products, niche markets, and relevant advertising, and the sky is the limit on your profit.

How can you make your business more profitable?

All of the ways to make your business more profitable come down to making your business more visible. Try writing guest blogs for websites that your audience reads in order to get noticed. Offer to print things your community may need (such as prosthetics) in order to build good relationships and gain publicity. Finally, give 3D printed gifts to family and friends. This is a great way to generate good buzz and solid word of mouth.

Want a more guided approach? Access TRUiC's free Small Business Startup Guide - a step-by-step course for turning your business idea into reality. Get started today!

STEP 2: Form a legal entity

The most common business structure types are the sole proprietorship , partnership , limited liability company (LLC) , and corporation .

Establishing a legal business entity such as an LLC or corporation protects you from being held personally liable if your 3D Printing Design Business is sued.

Form Your LLC

Read our Guide to Form Your Own LLC

Have a Professional Service Form your LLC for You

Two such reliable services:

You can form an LLC yourself and pay only the minimal state LLC costs or hire one of the Best LLC Services for a small, additional fee.

Recommended: You will need to elect a registered agent for your LLC. LLC formation packages usually include a free year of registered agent services . You can choose to hire a registered agent or act as your own.

STEP 3: Register for taxes

You will need to register for a variety of state and federal taxes before you can open for business.

In order to register for taxes you will need to apply for an EIN. It's really easy and free!

You can acquire your EIN through the IRS website . If you would like to learn more about EINs, read our article, What is an EIN?

There are specific state taxes that might apply to your business. Learn more about state sales tax and franchise taxes in our state sales tax guides.

STEP 4: Open a business bank account & credit card

Using dedicated business banking and credit accounts is essential for personal asset protection.

When your personal and business accounts are mixed, your personal assets (your home, car, and other valuables) are at risk in the event your business is sued. In business law, this is referred to as piercing your corporate veil .

Open a business bank account

Besides being a requirement when applying for business loans, opening a business bank account:

• Separates your personal assets from your company's assets, which is necessary for personal asset protection.
• Makes accounting and tax filing easier.

Recommended: Read our Best Banks for Small Business review to find the best national bank or credit union.

Get a business credit card

Getting a business credit card helps you:

• Separate personal and business expenses by putting your business' expenses all in one place.
• Build your company's credit history , which can be useful to raise money later on.

Recommended: Apply for an easy approval business credit card from BILL and build your business credit quickly.

STEP 5: Set up business accounting

Recording your various expenses and sources of income is critical to understanding the financial performance of your business. Keeping accurate and detailed accounts also greatly simplifies your annual tax filing.

Make LLC accounting easy with our LLC Expenses Cheat Sheet.

STEP 6: Obtain necessary permits and licenses

Failure to acquire necessary permits and licenses can result in hefty fines, or even cause your business to be shut down.

State & Local Business Licensing Requirements

Certain state permits and licenses may be needed to operate a 3D printing design business. Learn more about licensing requirements in your state by visiting SBA’s reference to state licenses and permits .

Most businesses are required to collect sales tax on the goods or services they provide. To learn more about how sales tax will affect your business, read our article, Sales Tax for Small Businesses .

Trademark & Copyright Protection

If you are developing a unique product, concept, brand, or design, it is prudent to protect your rights by registering for the appropriate trademarks and copyrights.

Learn more about trademark and copyright protection

STEP 7: Get business insurance

Just as with licenses and permits, your business needs insurance in order to operate safely and lawfully. Business Insurance protects your company’s financial wellbeing in the event of a covered loss.

There are several types of insurance policies created for different types of businesses with different risks. If you’re unsure of the types of risks that your business may face, begin with General Liability Insurance . This is the most common coverage that small businesses need, so it’s a great place to start for your business.

Another notable insurance policy that many businesses need is Workers’ Compensation Insurance . If your business will have employees, it’s a good chance that your state will require you to carry Workers' Compensation Coverage.

FInd out what types of insurance your 3D Printing Design Business needs and how much it will cost you by reading our guide Business Insurance for 3D Printing Design Business.

STEP 8: Define your brand

Your brand is what your company stands for, as well as how your business is perceived by the public. A strong brand will help your business stand out from competitors.

If you aren't feeling confident about designing your small business logo, then check out our Design Guides for Beginners , we'll give you helpful tips and advice for creating the best unique logo for your business.

Recommended : Get a logo using Truic's free logo Generator no email or sign up required, or use a Premium Logo Maker .

If you already have a logo, you can also add it to a QR code with our Free QR Code Generator . Choose from 13 QR code types to create a code for your business cards and publications, or to help spread awareness for your new website.

How to promote & market a 3D Printing Design Business

As mentioned earlier, it's important to advertise via your own professional website. You should also use social media (especially Instagram) to show off high-quality photos of your creations. You can also pay for professional advertisements through social media such as Facebook, which helps target your advertisements towards the most receptive audiences.

How to keep customers coming back

In addition to the ideas above, look for ways to show off and sell your products in the real world, too. Local hobby shops may allow you to put up advertisements for your services, including examples of your work. Local sci-fi and fantasy conventions offer a chance to rent a vendor booth and sell custom geeky jewelry and other items that fans cannot find anywhere else. The goal of both of these is to hand out business cards and get an eventual stream of regular customers on top of the impulse buyers you'll get.

STEP 9: Create your business website

After defining your brand and creating your logo the next step is to create a website for your business .

While creating a website is an essential step, some may fear that it’s out of their reach because they don’t have any website-building experience. While this may have been a reasonable fear back in 2015, web technology has seen huge advancements in the past few years that makes the lives of small business owners much simpler.

Here are the main reasons why you shouldn’t delay building your website:

• All legitimate businesses have websites - full stop. The size or industry of your business does not matter when it comes to getting your business online.
• Social media accounts like Facebook pages or LinkedIn business profiles are not a replacement for a business website that you own.
• Website builder tools like the GoDaddy Website Builder have made creating a basic website extremely simple. You don’t need to hire a web developer or designer to create a website that you can be proud of.

Recommended : Get started today using our recommended website builder or check out our review of the Best Website Builders .

Other popular website builders are: WordPress , WIX , Weebly , Squarespace , and Shopify .

STEP 10: Set up your business phone system

Getting a phone set up for your business is one of the best ways to help keep your personal life and business life separate and private. That’s not the only benefit; it also helps you make your business more automated, gives your business legitimacy, and makes it easier for potential customers to find and contact you.

There are many services available to entrepreneurs who want to set up a business phone system. We’ve reviewed the top companies and rated them based on price, features, and ease of use. Check out our review of the Best Business Phone Systems 2023 to find the best phone service for your small business.

Recommended Business Phone Service: Phone.com

Phone.com is our top choice for small business phone numbers because of all the features it offers for small businesses and it's fair pricing.

Is this Business Right For You?

This business is great for artists, particularly those who have created physical works (such as statues and carvings) before. Arguably, the most important part of this job is being able to take a good idea and use a combination of software and artistic skill to make it into a reality.

Want to know if you are cut out to be an entrepreneur?

Take our Entrepreneurship Quiz to find out!

Entrepreneurship Quiz

What happens during a typical day at a 3D Printing Design Business?

Your most prominent daily activities will be designing 3D objects and focusing on ways of selling them to consumers. If you are not relying on a third party such as Shapeways, then a generous portion of your time will be taken up by printing objects. Beyond this, your time will often be spent working on new ways to advertise your services online.

What are some skills and experiences that will help you build a successful 3D Printing Design Business?

To make your 3D designs, you will need special software (such as Blender) and experience using it. Similarly, if you are doing the 3D printing yourself, then you will need to be very familiar with using and troubleshooting your 3D printer. Finally, you should become very familiar with the 3D printing market—as it grows, it may become more of a challenge to make your own business stand out in the crowd.

What is the growth potential for a 3D Printing Design Business?

The growth potential for this business is quite large. The research company Canalys believes that the market for 3D printed goods will actually grow by 500% between 2014 and 2019.

Not sure if a 3D Printing Design Business is right for you? Try our free Business Idea Generator and find your perfect idea.

TRUiC's YouTube Channel

For fun informative videos about starting a business visit the TRUiC YouTube Channel or subscribe to view later.

Take the Next Step

Find a business mentor.

One of the greatest resources an entrepreneur can have is quality mentorship. As you start planning your business, connect with a free business resource near you to get the help you need.

Having a support network in place to turn to during tough times is a major factor of success for new business owners.

Learn from other business owners

Want to learn more about starting a business from entrepreneurs themselves? Visit Startup Savant’s startup founder series to gain entrepreneurial insights, lessons, and advice from founders themselves.

Resources to Help Women in Business

There are many resources out there specifically for women entrepreneurs. We’ve gathered necessary and useful information to help you succeed both professionally and personally:

If you’re a woman looking for some guidance in entrepreneurship, check out this great new series Women in Business created by the women of our partner Startup Savant.

What are some insider tips for jump starting a 3D Printing Design Business?

As mentioned earlier, it's important to find a niche in order to maximize profits. When brainstorming, start by thinking of customer needs: one successful shop came about when the owner realized that a 3D printer would be able to create perfectly custom bras for women. Finally, consider every print a learning process: try to improve the appearance and sturdiness of what you create until it is perfect.

How and when to build a team

In most cases, a 3D printing business is a one-person operation. However, because all of the work is typically done from home, it is very easy for you to create a small network of designers in order to maximize the amount of shapes you are able to sell.

Useful Links

Industry opportunities.

• Design on Shapeway
• Learn about more Online Business Ideas

Real World Examples

• Cuddle Clones
• Ryan Kittleson’s Sculpture

Further Reading

• Tips from Shapeways
• Profile on a successful designer

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New 3D Printing Software Unlocks Full Transparency and Control of Parameters

Velo3D’s Flow Developer: From black box to full transparency and control, the new product enables a pathway to migrate additive manufacturing knowledge to VELO3D’s fully integrated solution and print process optimization.

Posted: May 17, 2024

A leading additive manufacturing technology company for mission-critical metal parts, has announced the release of Developer , a new offering made available in the company’s Flow print preparation software that unlocks full transparency and control of the parameters used in the 3D printing process. With the flexibility of Flow Developer, users can transfer their experience and knowledge from previous projects, develop new material processes, and control their optimization objectives. This greatly simplifies the migration of additive manufacturing projects to Velo3D’s fully integrated solution.

 Developer is available for users of Flow 7.0, the latest version of Velo3D’s print preparation software that seamlessly turns traditional design files into print files. Developer grants editor-level access to print parameters, giving companies maximum flexibility and control when working with their Velo3D additive manufacturing solution. With this access, users can import proven parameters they have developed, optimize default parameters for specific application needs, and develop parameter sets supporting new material development for novel solutions and specific applications. Once a part that was produced using Developer has been qualified, users can scale production leveraging the control, quality, and repeatability of Velo3D’s additive manufacturing solution.

 “It can be a challenge to produce repeatable results across different metal 3D printers—even when they’re the same model of printer—however, Velo3D’s solution can consistently produce parts within spec across any of its printers, which provides huge benefits for companies looking to scale production of their parts,” said Additive Manufacturing Manager at Ursa Major , Thomas Pomorski. “When our team first tested Flow Developer, we transferred parameters we developed on a non-Velo system, hoping we could easily produce the same part on Velo3D’s system and then take advantage of the scalability it provides. On our first try, we imported a part with highly complex, sensitive features and achieved incredible results that were within specification. Since then, we’ve accomplished the same process with other parts and in some cases, have been able to reduce print time by nearly 50% without sacrificing accuracy or quality.”

 Prior to its general release, Developer has been made available to select customers for feedback, including Ursa Major, a privately funded company developing rocket propulsion technology. During this phase, engineers have been able to directly transfer their custom parameters into their Velo3D solutions with exceptional results. Developer gave early-access customers the ability to easily scale production of their parts as their applications matured from development to production.

 “Velo3D’s mission has always been to provide an additive manufacturing solution that delivers repeatability from machine-to-machine, which is still a big shortcoming with legacy metal 3D printers,” said Brad Kreger, CEO of Velo3D. “Previously, we did this by providing pre-defined parameters within the system, which left customers wanting to know what’s inside our ‘black box’ and looking for more flexibility. When you combine Flow Developer with our ability to produce identical parts using the same print file, we strike the perfect balance between usability, repeatability, and flexibility. This has allowed these early access customers to think outside the box of conventional additive manufacturing to progress beyond their current limitations and realize true production scalability for their parts.”

 Flow is a key part of Velo3D’s unique approach to additive manufacturing, which differs from competitors’ offerings by providing a fully integrated solution that includes hardware and software, which come together to ensure machine-to-machine consistency. In addition to Flow and the Sapphire family of printers, the company’s solution also includes Assure quality assurance software, which monitors a print layer-by-layer to ensure consistent geometric accuracy, surface finish, and material properties throughout a finished part.

• Book a demo of Developer at Additive Manufacturing Users Group (AMUG) 2024 , which takes place in Chicago on March 10-14, 2024.
• Visit the Flow Developer page on the Velo3D website to download the product brief or learn more about the product.
• Learn more about Flow print preparation software and other portions of Velo3D’s fully integrated solution.

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Industry news.

Woodward Inc. Announces Expansion of Metal Fabrication Facility

Expansion in Mars, Pa., houses new plasma-cutting system, enhances cutting and shaping capabilities.

Tecoi USA and Gladwin Machinery Announce Strategic Distributor Partnership

Gladwin Machinery now supports Tecoi with sales, as well as application engineering and technical support for their line of advanced plate processing systems.

Kenworthy Named Global President of Shape Process Automation

Simon Kenworthy’s appointment as the global president of this robotics system integrator and process cutting solutions provider became effective May 1, 2024.

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City council oks grant for affordable 3d printing housing program.

Cleveland City Council gave the green light to a pilot program to fund the 3D printing of two homes in hopes of verifying the technology and eventually scaling the construction to meet gaps in affordable housing.

Council voted to authorize an economic development department grant of $500,000 in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds to the Lutheran Metropolitan Ministry (LMM) for a 3D printing housing program at the Monday, May 13, meeting.

The ordinance was introduced by Stephanie Howse-Jones of Ward 7, who was elected in 2021 after serving two terms as a state representative and came into office after most of the ward-specific ARPA funding had been dispersed.

Howse-Jones had originally requested $1 million to buy equipment and warehouse space as part of a 3D printing housing program but amended the measure to fund the due diligence and the construction of two 1,000-square-foot houses first.

Howse-Jones was approached by LMM leadership shortly after she took office about supporting the development of housing for the homeless.

“We also have an affordability problem for thousands of households in our community,” Howse-Jones told members of the council’s Finance, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee. “Using this one-time funding to explore this process is important. We have to be willing to try new things.”

Constructing a 3D printing building involves a large robotic arm and nozzle which extrudes a customized concrete mix that gradually prints layers of material to create a structure. Other components of the structure — including roofing, windows, doors, electrical and plumbing — are added after the printing process.

The cost ranges on average between $90-$180 per square foot which translates into a $140,000 price tag for a two-bedroom, one-and-a-half bath, 1,000-square-foot house.

Michael Sering, LMM’s vice president of housing and shelter services, said that price could be mitigated when coupled with federal housing vouchers or a family stability fund offered by the organization. Additionally, he noted, the properties could be rented to families experiencing homelessness.

“These could be an opportunity for home ownership when you consider the skyrocketing price of homes,” Sering said. “Combine the lower cost of these homes with mortgage assistance and it makes it affordable for a wide range of people who can’t purchase currently.”

The pilot program’s initial grant is to test out the building process of home construction that is faster, cleaner and more affordable than traditional methods, Sering added.

Because concrete offers better insulation, 3D-printed homes are more energy-efficient and create less construction waste. The printing process is done in a climate-controlled warehouse and then shipped to the building site.

The printing can be accomplished with less labor — 3D printers require only one or two workers — but does require traditional construction trade workers to finish the build.

Sering said $150,000 of the grant would include exploring the creation of a vocation program to train a local workforce on the 3D-building process as well as due diligence and research.

The remaining $350,000 will be used to construct the two small homes. Sering added he expects the feasibility study to take about 6 months and estimates the first pilot home to begin construction within the year.  

“What we plan to do with this upfront money is conduct some research, stand up the project and then work with other community partners to find more money to build out the program,” Sering said.

Another huge benefit of the 3D process is that it can be printed in weeks rather than months which could have a significant impact on the city’s vast amount of vacant property and deficit of affordable housing.

Council President Blaine Griffin supports the grant and said the program could be scaled to fit not just low-income communities but also middle-class neighborhoods in the city.  

“Cleveland could be a forerunner in this and it has a real positive environmental, social and e conomic workforce training impact ,” Griffin said.

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