3D Printing + Crowd-sourcing = Potential for Explosive Growth.

Some of the most exciting tech start-ups use the “mash-up” approach to building a business model. The “mash-up” terms comes from web developers and refers to a web application that uses content from more than one source to create a new service displayed in a single web page.

The term has grown to encompass businesses that combine two proven business models to create a new business that represents a “blue ocean” strategic opportunity – doing business in an “unoccupied space.”

3D Hubs provides 3D printing access to consumers and businesses via a global community of 3D printers. The owners of these 3D printers set their own prices, and list resolution capabilities and available printing materials.  It closes the gap between design and access to 3D printing production. And they have a clear and well defined business process for both 3D printer owners and end-users that makes it all easy.

Bram de Zwart

3D Hubs is based in Amsterdam and was started in 2013 by Bram de Zwart and Brian Garret - who previously worked for industry giant 3D systems.  Their simple mash-up business model combines elements of place-based applications like Foursquare and AirBnB – the Global lodging network. It delivers fast, affordable 3D printing locally.

But is 3D printing a really big idea? Global consulting powerhouse McKinsey & Company seems to think so. In their 2013 “Disruptive Technologies” report they cite that the 3D printing sector could produce an economic impact of $ 230 - $ 550 billion by 2025. This suggests that 3D printing is no passing fad.

Local 3D Hubs Printing Hubs in Metro NYC Area.

   The 3D printing technique so far has been used so far mainly for rapid prototyping, but McKinsey says the industry may be reaching a tipping point where widespread adaptation could occur. Improvements in materials and falling prices, plus wider spread use across a wide variety of consumer and commercial applications are fueling growth.

"How to Hub" for 3D printer owners with 3D Hubs: Simple

As 3D Hubs works towards universal 3D printing access, their offer of affordability and creative empowerment that are the underlying benenfits of the business model. They are helping level the playing field in a broad range of business sectors – from specialized industrial production like aerospace to the explosive heath care industry including customized hearing aids and artificial joints. 

3D Hubs has an eye on growing its presence in the metro NYC market. Zwart commented recently at a  Hardwired NYC event "New York is probably the most active city in terms of 3D printing, with many firm having their headquarters here. Our local community here consists of over 300 people, including 75 3D printer owners - where customers can get their designs made.

Even Amazon is getting in the act with its 3DLT online marketplace for 3D printed products – from smart phone cases to jewelry. But 3D Hubs has Amazon beat – because it fosters a community of like-minded people to get the chance to meet and do business with each other in person. These introductions and collaboration opportunities may be the best mash-up of all.