how to write a 3d printing business plan

3D Printing Business Plan Template

Written by Dave Lavinsky

3D Printing Business Plan

Over the past 20+ years, we have helped over 2,000 entrepreneurs and business owners create business plans to start and grow their 3D printing businesses. On this page, we will first give you some background information with regards to the importance of business planning. We will then go through a 3D printing business plan template step-by-step so you can create your plan today.

Download our Ultimate Business Plan Template here >

What Is a 3d Printing Business Plan?

A business plan provides a snapshot of your 3D printing business as it stands today, and lays out your growth plan for the next five years. It explains your business goals and your strategy for reaching them. It also includes market research to support your plans.

Why You Need a Business Plan for your 3D Printing Business

If you’re looking to start a 3D printing business, or grow your existing 3D printing business, you need a business plan. A business plan will help you raise funding, if needed, and plan out the growth of your 3D printing business in order to improve your chances of success. Your 3D printing business plan is a living document that should be updated annually as your company grows and changes.

Sources of Funding for 3D Printing Businesses

With regards to funding, the main sources of funding for a 3D printing business are personal savings, credit cards, bank loans and angel investors. With regards to bank loans, banks will want to review your business plan and gain confidence that you will be able to repay your loan and interest. To acquire this confidence, the loan officer will not only want to confirm that your financials are reasonable, but they will also want to see a professional plan. Such a plan will give them the confidence that you can successfully and professionally operate a business.

Personal savings is the other most common form of funding for a 3D printing business. Venture capitalists will usually not fund a 3D printing business. They might consider funding a 3D printing business with a national presence, but never an individual location. This is because most venture capitalists are looking for millions of dollars in return when they make an investment, and an individual location could never achieve such results.  With that said, personal savings and bank loans are the most common funding paths for 3D printing businesses.

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How to write a business plan for a 3d printing company.

If you want to start a 3D printing business or expand your current one, you need a business plan. Below are links to each section of your 3D printing business plan template:

Executive Summary

Your executive summary provides an introduction to your business plan, but it is normally the last section you write because it provides a summary of each key section of your plan.

The goal of your Executive Summary is to quickly engage the reader. Explain to them the type of 3D printing business you are operating and the status. For example, are you a startup, do you have a 3D printing business that you would like to grow, or are you operating a chain of 3D printing businesses?

Next, provide an overview of each of the subsequent sections of your plan. For example, give a brief overview of the 3D printing industry. Discuss the type of 3D printing business you are operating. Detail your direct competitors. Give an overview of your target customers. Provide a snapshot of your marketing plan. Identify the key members of your team. And offer an overview of your financial plan.  

Company Analysis

In your company analysis, you will detail the type of 3D printing business you are operating.

For example, you might operate one of the following types of 3D printing businesses:

• Rapid Prototype Printer : this type of 3D printing business focuses on quickly printing prototypes for companies or individuals that are designing new products.
• Aerospace, Automotive and Railway Printer: this type of business focuses on manufacturing mechanical pieces used in constructing airplanes, cars, trucks and trains.
• Consumer Products Printer: this type of 3D printing focuses on producing consumer goods such as footwear, eyewear and jewelry.

In addition to explaining the type of 3D printing business you will operate, the Company Analysis section of your business plan needs to provide background on the business.

Include answers to question such as:

• When and why did you start the business?
• What milestones have you achieved to date? Milestones could include the number of customers served, number of positive reviews, number of corporate clients, etc.
• Your legal structure. Are you incorporated as an S-Corp? An LLC? A sole proprietorship? Explain your legal structure here.

Industry Analysis

In your industry analysis, you need to provide an overview of the 3D printing industry.

While this may seem unnecessary, it serves multiple purposes.

First, researching the 3D printing industry educates you. It helps you understand the market in which you are operating.

Secondly, market research can improve your strategy, particularly if your research identifies market trends.

The third reason for market research is to prove to readers that you are an expert in your industry. By conducting the research and presenting it in your plan, you achieve just that.

The following questions should be answered in the industry analysis section of your 3D printing business plan:

• How big is the 3D printing industry (in dollars)?
• Is the market declining or increasing?
• Who are the key competitors in the market?
• Who are the key suppliers in the market?
• What trends are affecting the industry?
• What is the industry’s growth forecast over the next 5 – 10 years?
• What is the relevant market size? That is, how big is the potential market for your 3D printing business? You can extrapolate such a figure by assessing the size of the market in the entire country and then applying that figure to your local population.

Customer Analysis

The customer analysis section of your 3D printing business plan must detail the customers you serve and/or expect to serve.

The following are examples of customer segments: fashion designers, medical device engineers, and car manufacturers.

As you can imagine, the customer segment(s) you choose will have a great impact on the type of 3D printing business you operate. Clearly, fashion designers would respond to different marketing promotions than car manufacturers, for example.

Try to break out your target customers in terms of their demographic and psychographic profiles. With regards to demographics, include a discussion of the ages, genders, locations and income levels of the customers you seek to serve. Because most 3D printing businesses primarily serve customers living in their same city or town, such demographic information is easy to find on government websites.

Psychographic profiles explain the wants and needs of your target customers. The more you can understand and define these needs, the better you will do in attracting and retaining your customers.

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Competitive Analysis

Your competitive analysis should identify the indirect and direct competitors your business faces and then focus on the latter.

Direct competitors are other 3D printing businesses.

Indirect competitors are other options that customers have to purchase from that aren’t direct competitors. This includes design services, engineering services and manufacturing services. You need to mention such competition as well.

With regards to direct competition, you want to describe the other 3D printing businesses with which you compete. Most likely, your direct competitors will be 3D printers located very close to your location.

For each such competitor, provide an overview of their businesses and document their strengths and weaknesses. Unless you once worked at your competitors’ businesses, it will be impossible to know everything about them. But you should be able to find out key things about them such as:

• What types of customers do they serve?
• What types of materials do they provide 3D printing services for?
• What is their pricing (premium, low, etc.)?
• What are they good at?
• What are their weaknesses?

With regards to the last two questions, think about your answers from the customers’ perspective. And don’t be afraid to ask your competitors’ customers what they like most and least about them.

The final part of your competitive analysis section is to document your areas of competitive advantage. For example:

• Will you provide higher quality printing or faster turnaround times?
• Will you provide services that your competitors don’t offer?
• Will you provide better customer service?
• Will you offer better pricing?

Think about ways you will outperform your competition and document them in this section of your plan.  

Marketing Plan

Traditionally, a marketing plan includes the four P’s: Product, Price, Place, and Promotion. For a 3D printing business plan, your marketing plan should include the following:

Product : In the product section, you should reiterate the type of 3D printing company that you documented in your Company Analysis. Then, detail the specific products you will be offering. For example, in addition to 3D printing, will you provide design services, shipping services or other engineering services?

Price : Document the prices you will offer and how they compare to your competitors. Essentially in the product and price sub-sections of your marketing plan, you are presenting the services you offer and their prices.

Place : Place refers to the location of your 3D printing company. Document your location and mention how the location will impact your success. For example, is your 3D printing business located in a busy retail district, business park, industrial district, etc. Discuss how your location might be the ideal location for your customers.

Promotions : The final part of your 3D printing marketing plan is the promotions section. Here you will document how you will drive customers to your location(s). The following are some promotional methods you might consider:

• Advertising in local papers and magazines
• Reaching out to local websites
• Social media marketing
• Local radio advertising

Operations Plan

While the earlier sections of your business plan explained your goals, your operations plan describes how you will meet them. Your operations plan should have two distinct sections as follows.

Everyday short-term processes include all of the tasks involved in running your 3D printing business, including quoting printing projects, reviewing designs with an engineering team, programming the printer to complete the design, fulfilling production quota and delivering product to the client.

Long-term goals are the milestones you hope to achieve. These could include the dates when you expect to print your 100th design, or when you hope to reach $X in revenue. It could also be when you expect to expand your 3D printing business to a larger facility.  

Management Team

To demonstrate your 3D printing business’ ability to succeed, a strong management team is essential. Highlight your key players’ backgrounds, emphasizing those skills and experiences that prove their ability to grow a company.

Ideally you and/or your team members have direct experience in managing 3D printing businesses. If so, highlight this experience and expertise. But also highlight any experience that you think will help your business succeed.

If your team is lacking, consider assembling an advisory board. An advisory board would include 2 to 8 individuals who would act like mentors to your business. They would help answer questions and provide strategic guidance. If needed, look for advisory board members with experience in managing 3D printing, other engineering services, or successfully running small businesses.  

Financial Plan

Your financial plan should include your 5-year financial statement broken out both monthly or quarterly for the first year and then annually. Your financial statements include your income statement, balance sheet and cash flow statements.

Income Statement : an income statement is more commonly called a Profit and Loss statement or P&L. It shows your revenues and then subtracts your costs to show whether you turned a profit or not.

In developing your income statement, you need to devise assumptions. For example, will you print three new designs per day or fulfill 30 shipments per quarter? And will sales grow by 2% or 10% per year? As you can imagine, your choice of assumptions will greatly impact the financial forecasts for your business. As much as possible, conduct research to try to root your assumptions in reality.

Balance Sheets : Balance sheets show your assets and liabilities. While balance sheets can include much information, try to simplify them to the key items you need to know about. For instance, if you spend $50,000 on building out your 3D printing business, this will not give you immediate profits. Rather it is an asset that will hopefully help you generate profits for years to come. Likewise, if a bank writes you a check for $50,000, you don’t need to pay it back immediately. Rather, that is a liability you will pay back over time.

Cash Flow Statement : Your cash flow statement will help determine how much money you need to start or grow your business, and make sure you never run out of money. What most entrepreneurs and business owners don’t realize is that you can turn a profit but run out of money and go bankrupt.

In developing your Income Statement and Balance Sheets be sure to include several of the key costs needed in starting or growing a 3D printing business:

• Location build-out including design fees, construction, etc.
• Cost of equipment and supplies
• Payroll or salaries paid to staff
• Business insurance
• Taxes and permits
• Legal expenses

Attach your full financial projections in the appendix of your plan along with any supporting documents that make your plan more compelling. For example, you might include your office location lease or blueprints of designs you are working on.  

Putting together a business plan for your 3D printing business is a worthwhile endeavor. If you follow the template above, by the time you are done, you will truly be an expert. You will really understand the 3D printing industry, your competition, and your customers. You will have developed a marketing plan and will really understand what it takes to launch and grow a successful 3D printing business.  

3D Printing Business Plan FAQs

What is the easiest way to complete my 3d printing business plan.

Growthink's Ultimate Business Plan Template allows you to quickly and easily complete your 3D Printing Business Plan.

What is the Goal of a Business Plan's Executive Summary?

The goal of your Executive Summary is to quickly engage the reader. Explain to them the type of 3D printing business you are operating and the status; for example, are you a startup, do you have a 3D printing business that you would like to grow, or are you operating a chain of 3D printing businesses?

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Other Helpful Business Plan Articles & Templates

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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• Sample Business Plans
• Manufacturing & Wholesale

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 3d printing 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: Start your executive summary by introducing your idea behind starting a printing business and explaining what it does. Give a brief overview of the idea that how will your 3d printing will be different.
• Market opportunity: Describe the target market in brief, and explain the demographics, geographic location, and psychographic attributes of your customer. Explain how your printing business meets its needs. Clearly describe the market that your printing business will serve.
• Mention your services: Describe in detail the printing services that a client can expect at your outlet. Also, incorporate all the details about the tools and equipment you will use keeping quality your priority.
• Management team: Name all the key members of your management team with their duties, responsibilities, and qualifications.
• Financial highlights: Provide a summary of your financial projections for the company’s initial years of operation. Include any capital or investment requirements, startup costs, projected revenues, and profits.
• Call to action: After giving a brief about your business plan, end your summary with a call to action, for example; inviting potential investors or readers to the next meeting if they are interested in your business.

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:

• 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: Add a mission statement that sums up the objectives and core principles of your printing house. This statement needs to be memorable, clear, and brief.
• Business history: Include an outline of the printing house’s history and how it came to be in its current position. If you can, add some personality and intriguing details, especially if you got any achievements or recognitions till now for your incredible services.
• Future goals: It’s crucial to convey your aspirations and your vision. Include the vision of where you see your printing business in the near future and if you have any plans of opening a new franchise of your business in the same city in the future.

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: Identify your target market and define your ideal customer. Know more about your customers and which services they prefer: prototyping, customization, rapid production, or for something else.
• Market size and growth potential: Provide an overview of the printing industry. It will include market size, trends, growth potential, and regulatory considerations. Highlight the competitive edge and how your printing house is different from the rest of the businesses.
• Competitive analysis: Identify and analyze all other printing businesses in the local market, including direct and indirect competitors. Evaluate their strengths and weaknesses, and explain how your 3d printing house can offer qualitative services.
• Market trends: Analyze current and emerging trends in your industry, such as changes in technology or customer preference. Explain how your printing house will cope with all the trends.
• Regulatory environment: Describe any regulations or licensing requirements that affect the printing house such as meeting the quality and safety criteria, and having an experienced employee to perform printing activities.

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:

• 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: In all descriptions of services, emphasize the importance of safety and quality. Explain how your printing house will ensure that all services are delivered with the highest standards of quality. If you use environmentally friendly materials, then mention it too.

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): Explain in detail how your 3D printing company differs from rivals and why clients should pick your business services over rivals. Think about things like quality, cost, speed, and customer service.
• Determine your pricing strategy: Develop a pricing strategy that is competitive and affordable, yet profitable. Consider offering promotions, discounts, or packages for your 3d printing services to attract new customers.
• Marketing strategies: Develop a marketing strategy that includes a mix of online and offline marketing tactics. Consider social media, email marketing, content marketing, brochures, print marketing, and events.
• Sales strategies: Mention your sales strategy as in – partner with other businesses and universities or institutes to establish referral programs that can help you generate more business. Consider offering incentives for referrals or special discounts for partnerships.
• Customer retention: Describe how your 3d printing business will retain customers and build loyalty, such as through loyalty programs, special events, or personalized service.

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: Explain how your 3D printing process works. Describe the type of printers you will be using, the materials you will be printing with, and the different printing technologies you will be using.
• Describe your supply chain: Describe how you will source your raw materials and 3D printing supplies. Discuss how you will maintain inventory levels and manage the supply chain.
• Customer satisfaction: Mention how you will ensure qualitative customer service, and what will be your policies for 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: Describe the key members of your management team, their roles, and their responsibilities. It should include the owners, senior management, and any other employees
• Organizational structure: Describe the organizational structure of the management team, including reporting lines and how decisions will be made.
• Compensation plan: Describe your compensation plan for the management team and staff, including salaries, bonuses, and other benefits.
• Board of advisors: If you have a board of advisors for your business, then mention them along with their roles and experience.

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: Create a projected profit & loss statement that describes the expected revenue, cost of products sold, and operational costs. Your printing house’s anticipated net profit or loss should be computed and included.
• Cash flow statement: Estimate your cash inflows and outflows for the first few years of operation. It should include cash receipts from clients, payments to vendors, loan payments, and any other cash inflows and outflows.
• Balance sheet: Prepare a projected balance sheet , which shows the printing business’s assets, liabilities, and equity.
• Break-even point: Determine the point at which your 3d printing business will break even, or generate enough revenue to cover its operating costs. This will help you understand how much revenue you need to generate to make a profit.
• Financing needs: Estimate how much financing you will need to start and operate your printing business. It should include both short-term and long-term financing needs, such as loans or investment capital.

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.

About the Author

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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How To Start a 3D Printing Business

If you can imagine it, you can probably 3D print it. Learn how to start a business making and selling 3D printed goods.

While it’s still the case that entrepreneurs enlist factories to handle the production process of their new products, it’s no longer a necessity. Thanks to the advent of 3D printing, some inventors and designers now manufacture consumer goods in their own homes or offices.

Some entrepreneurs have opted not to produce their own physical goods, but produce items for a roster of corporate clients. These small business owners function like boutique factories, as they turn customer designs into physical products. Here’s an overview of how to start a 3D printing business of your own.

What is 3D printing?

3D printing, also known as additive manufacturing, is a process of creating three-dimensional objects from a digital design by using different materials, including plastic, ceramic, and metal. Though 3D printing takes its name from traditional printers that set ink onto paper, 3D printers create three-dimensional objects by adding material layer by layer.

You can 3D print at home using a relatively small apparatus that melts and then reconstitutes plastic. Similar technology is also used in large industries such as health care, automotive, fashion, architecture, aerospace, and others that involve mass manufacturing.

What are the steps in 3D printing?

• Layer bonding
• Post-processing

The 3D printing process can speed up product development and involves five fundamental steps:

1. Designing

A designer creates a 3D model of the desired object using computer-aided design (CAD) software. Alternatively, they can copy the structure of an existing product by scanning it with a 3D scanner. This digital design serves as a blueprint for the 3D printer.

Special software “slices” the 3D model into thin horizontal layers that are stacked on top of each other. The model is then converted into a set of instructions that guide the 3D printer on how to create each layer.

3. Printing

The 3D printer begins making the physical product. It does this by depositing printing material such as plastic, metal, or ceramic in precise layers according to the instructions from the slicing software.

4. Layer Bonding

As each layer is added, the material fuses or bonds with the previous layer. This additive process continues until the entire object has been printed.

5. Post-Processing

Once the printing is complete, the object may undergo additional post-processing steps such as cleaning, curing, sanding, painting, and assembly to achieve its ultimate appearance and functionality.

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

3d printers, printing materials, post-processing equipment, real estate and utilities, hired labor, insurance and legal fees, marketing expenses.

The startup costs associated with a 3D printing business may start at around $5,000 and quickly scale up from there. Some expenses, such as getting a business license and buying business insurance , are standard for any new business. Other costs are related specifically to additive manufacturing technology. New business owners can expect the following expenses:

A printer will be the hub of your 3D printing business. It may also be the most expensive item you purchase. 3D printers range from a few hundred dollars for entry-level desktop models to several hundred thousand dollars for industrial-grade machines. Consider budgeting around $2,000 to $10,000 for one or more mid-range 3D printers.

3D printing materials are comparable to the ink you put in a traditional paper printer. These printing materials take the form of filaments, resins, or powders. The cost of your initial batch will vary depending on what you make, but a spool of filament can range from around $20 for common PLA (polylactic acid) plastic to hundreds of dollars for a specialty filament.

Your 3D printer runs on 3D modeling and slicing software. Some software options—like Blender , FreeCAD , and OpenSCAD —are free. However, some free programs may not be able to handle complex designs. More expensive options include Autodesk Fusion 360 , which requires an annual license, and Simplify3D . These programs and others like them can cost anywhere from a couple hundred dollars to a couple thousand dollars.

Some 3D-printed items require additional equipment for post-processing before they can reach their final form. This equipment includes sanding and filing tools, curing chambers, and cleaning stations. This equipment may run from several hundred to several thousand dollars, depending on your industry.

Your 3D printing operation requires physical space. You might be able to work out of your own home if you run a small startup that only serves the local market. If you have bigger ambitions, you’ll likely need to rent a larger workspace or even a warehouse . You’ll also need to pay for utilities like electricity and internet. Real estate rates will vary depending on your location.

If you plan to hire employees or contract workers, you’ll need to budget for salaries, benefits, and training. The price of labor varies widely.

A small business owner can expect to pay for business insurance . Contact insurance brokers directly for rate quotes. Many will also pay for legal services for business registration , contracts, and licensing. Lawyers typically charge several hundred dollars per hour, but you can save money on some document preparation by using an online legal services company like LegalZoom or ZenBusiness.

You’ll need a marketing budget to promote your own business within your target market . This includes developing a business website and running paid ads , along with pursuing search engine optimization (SEO) , social media marketing , email marketing , and more. Some small business owners pay for this with their own sweat equity, creating most of the marketing materials themselves. Others hire a marketing specialist.

How to start a 3D printing business

• Conduct market research
• Develop a business plan
• Legally establish your business
• Obtain financing
• Research and choose a 3D printing technology
• Lease space and purchase equipment
• Choose a sales platform
• Hire staff, as needed
• Build an online presence
• Market your business

Starting a successful business requires careful planning and discipline, whether you’re in 3D printing or a different industry altogether. Here are the key steps to starting a 3D printing business of your own:

1. Conduct market research

Before you embark on a business venture, take stock of the current marketplace through market research . Study local demand and assess your competition. Identify potential niches and markets for your 3D printing business.

2. Develop a business plan

Create a comprehensive business plan outlining your business goals, target market, services offered, price points, financial projections, and marketing plan . Also, choose a legal business name (you can get help from a free name generator ). Your business plan should align with the findings of your market research because you want your service offerings to address the pain points and needs of your potential customers.

3. Legally establish your business

Legally organize your 3D printing operation under a formal business structure like an LLC , a corporation , or a sole proprietorship . You may also need a business license and business insurance to operate in your state or municipality. Shopify has guides for starting up that can help you learn the requirements for your specific region.

4. Obtain financing

Set up a business bank account and obtain financing . This could come from investor capital or bank loans, or by bootstrapping and using your own personal savings. You can call upon public resources like the Small Business Administration (SBA) or private resources like Shopify Capital to obtain the funding you need.

5. Research and choose a 3D printing technology

Decide on the type of 3D printing technology you want to operate. Research fused deposition modeling (FDM), stereolithography (SLA), and selective laser sintering (SLS), all of which create 3D printed objects layer by layer. Determine which materials you’ll work with and the specific services you’ll offer, including prototyping, production, custom items, and more.

6. Lease space and purchase equipment

If you’re just starting out, you can probably run your 3D printing business from your home. As your company grows, you may need a larger space. Regardless, create a dedicated workspace with proper ventilation, lighting, and electrical outlets. You’ll also need the appropriate 3D printers and raw materials for your chosen manufacturing niche. Research and compare different printer brands and models based on your budget and business plan.

7. Choose a sales platform

If you plan to sell your 3D printed goods directly to consumers , an ecommerce platform like Shopify can handle everything from financial transactions to customer relationship management (CRM) . If you plan to operate under a business-to-business (B2B) model, however, you may not need a front-facing sales platform. Accounting software is necessary to help you track revenue and expenses.

Market your business with Shopify’s customer marketing tools

Shopify has everything you need to capture more leads, send email campaigns, automate key marketing moments, segment your customers, and analyze your results. Plus, it’s all free for your first 10,000 emails sent per month.

8. Hire staff, as needed

If you choose to start your 3D printing ecommerce business as a solo operation, this step may come later. Or, you can have a team of workers on hand before you start accepting customer orders for fulfillment . For instance, you could hire a specialist who handles the actual 3D printing. You could also learn how to 3D print on your own, and instead hire a team to help you with administrative work like accounting and marketing.

9. Build an online presence

Many of your potential clients will find your business by searching the internet. This means you’ll need a business website and social media profiles for your company. Your online presence should highlight your specialties and the services you offer. If you choose an all-in-one ecommerce platform like Shopify , you can get a business website builder included in your subscription.

10. Market your business

You can market your 3D printing business through a mixture of web ads, SEO content writing , email campaigns , social media marketing , partnerships, and word-of-mouth campaigns . All of these outlets can bring new customers to your business and retain past customers.

How to start a 3D printing business FAQ

Can i 3d print anything and sell it.

You can 3D print anything that can be built using additive manufacturing technology—from simple toys to specialized mechanical parts. You can legally sell anything, provided that you’re in compliance with federal, state, and local laws. These laws may pertain to safety, consumer rights, intellectual property rights, and tax compliance, among other categories.

Do I need to have technical expertise in 3D printing to start a business?

It takes technical expertise to operate a 3D printer, but you can teach yourself these skills via manuals, online videos, and training courses. 3D printing is powered by advanced software, and much of the training process involves mastering this software. You can also start a business and hire a team to operate the printers.

What are the key factors to consider when pricing my 3D printing products?

When pricing your products, consider the cost of materials and equipment, market demand , and competitor prices.

How do I ensure the quality of my 3D-printed products?

You can ensure the quality of 3D printed products by using high-quality materials (plastics, metals, resins, etc.) and commercial-grade manufacturing equipment. It’s also important to make sure your employees and you have 3D printing expertise.

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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

More on Technology

3D Printing Business Plan Template & Guidebook

How to write a 3d printing business plan in 7 steps:, 1. describe the purpose of your 3d printing business..

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

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

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

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. 

Target market

Customer base , product or service description, competitive analysis, marketing channels, form an llc in your state, 4. write your operational plan., what equipment, supplies, or permits are needed to run a 3d printing business, 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.

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

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.

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

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

Frequently Asked Questions About 3D Printing Business Plans:

Why do you need a business plan for a 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?

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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.

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How To Start A 3D Printing Business

• Last Updated: June 21, 2024
• By: Greg Bouhl

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In a world where customization is king, 3D printing offers the chance to produce unique, on-demand products. The advent of 3D printing technology has revolutionized various industries and opened up opportunities for innovative entrepreneurs.

Starting a 3D printing business requires more than technical skills; it also demands an understanding of the market, a clear business strategy, and a passion for innovation. But don’t fret – our guide is here to help you navigate through the startup process. Every successful business starts with a single step and with this information at hand, you’re well-equipped to take that first step towards establishing your own 3D printing business.

3D Printing Industry Overview

Starting a 3D printing business (also referred to as additive manufacturing or rapid prototyping) can be an exciting venture with significant potential for growth. This type of business involves creating three-dimensional objects from a digital file using a 3D printer. The breadth of products you can create is vast – from product prototypes and parts for manufacturing to gifts, promotional products, art, jewelry, and even medical devices. Different materials, such as plastic and metals, can be used.

The 3D printing industry has seen substantial growth. Over the last five years, annual growth has increased by 17.2% each year to $3.6 billion in sales. The technology has become more accessible and affordable, leading to its increased use in various sectors like automotive, aerospace, healthcare, and consumer goods. As such, the demand for 3D printed products and services is expected to continue to rise.

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Industry Trends

One of the key trends in the 3D printing industry is customization. Consumers and businesses alike are seeking custom solutions, and 3D printing offers the flexibility to meet these needs.

Additionally, there’s a growing trend towards eco-friendly materials in 3D printing, reflecting the broader societal shift towards sustainability. Moreover, advancements in technology are resulting in faster, more efficient 3D printers, which can produce more complex designs.

Target Market

The target market for a 3D printing business can be quite diverse, depending on the focus and scale of the operation. Here’s a breakdown that might resonate with your specific business plan:

• Individual consumers: This includes hobbyists, artists, and DIY enthusiasts who are looking for customized products or components for personal projects.
• Small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs): Many SMBs utilize 3D printing for prototyping or small batch production. It allows them to innovate without the massive costs associated with traditional manufacturing .
• Healthcare industry: Medical professionals and institutions are adopting 3D printing for creating custom prosthetics, implants, and even human tissue.
• Educational institutions: Schools, colleges, and universities are utilizing 3D printing in their curriculums to enhance learning in subjects like engineering, architecture, and design.
• Manufacturing sector: Large manufacturers are increasingly using 3D printing for producing parts, tools, and prototypes. It allows them to accelerate design cycles and reduce costs.
• Architectural firms: 3D printing helps architects create detailed models of buildings and landscapes, aiding in both design and client presentations.
• Automotive and aerospace industries: These sectors are employing 3D printing for creating complex parts, enhancing both efficiency and flexibility in production.
• Entertainment industry: 3D printing is used in making props, costumes, and even sets in movies, television, and theater.

Understanding your specific target market is essential in shaping your business strategy. It affects everything from the technology and materials you’ll need to your marketing and sales approach. By identifying and focusing on the right market segment, you can align your 3D printing business with the needs and interests of your potential customers, ensuring a stronger position in this innovative field.

Checklist To Start A 3D Printing Business

If you’re thinking about starting a 3D printing business, it’s important to do your research first. Here is a checklist to help you get started.

Step 1:  Choose a Niche

Choosing the right niche is a critical step in starting any business, including 3D. Without the proper research, you risk entering a market that’s too small, too competitive, or not interested in your offerings.

With a wide range of applications, from medical devices to architectural models, focusing on a specific area can help differentiate your business in a competitive market. Consider factors like your expertise, customer demand, and market saturation when selecting a niche.

Here’s some tips on how to identify and select a niche:

Identify opportunities: Look for gaps in the market or areas where you have unique knowledge or insights. Maybe there’s a particular industry, like medicine or architecture, where you can specialize.

Evaluate competition : Researching your competition can provide insights into what works well and what gaps might exist in the market that your business could fill.

Consider passion and skills: Aligning your niche with what you’re passionate about and what you’re good at can lead to a more fulfilling and successful business.

Understand industry trends : Keeping up-to-date with industry trends can help you adapt your business to meet changing customer demands and stay competitive.

Step 2:  Write a Business Plan

A business plan for a 3D printing business serves as a strategic guide, helping to clarify your business concept, identify potential challenges, and set goals. It’s like a navigational chart for a ship; without it, you risk drifting off course or running aground.

While writing a business plan is often thought of as something only done to attract funding, the business plan can also help solidify your ideas and strategies. Some sections of a business plan that are particularly significant for a 3D printing business include:

Market analysis : This section details your understanding of the market landscape, including industry trends, target audience, and competition.

Product line and services : Here, you detail what you’re selling. For a 3D printing business, this could include the types of products you’ll be producing, the technology you’ll be using, and any related services you’ll offer, such as design consulting or post-production finishing.

Sales and marketing strategy : This outlines how you plan to attract and retain customers. Given the specialized nature of 3D printing, you’ll need to demonstrate a clear strategy for reaching your target market and convincing them of the value of your offerings.

Financial projections : Here, you create a forecast of the revenues and expenses for your business. This section can help you determine whether your idea is feasible.

Related: How to write a business plan

Step 3:  Register the Business

Registering a 3D printing business involves several steps, and while the process may vary slightly from state to state, some general guidelines apply.

Choose a business structure: The first thing you’ll need to decide is what business structure is best for your business. This could be a sole proprietorship, a partnership, a Limited Liability Company (LLC), or a corporation. Each of these structures has different implications for liability, taxes, and administrative complexity. The sole proprietorship and LLC are popular choices for a 3D printing business. The sole proprietorship because it is easy and inexpensive to form and the LLC because it provides personal liability protection.

Related: Comparison of business structures

Business name registration: After registering the business structure, you may need to register your business name. This process will vary depending on what business structure you pick. Sole proprietors and partnerships will often be required to register a “Doing Business As” (DBA), while corporations and LLCs register with the state during the formation process.

During this time, it’s also a good idea to check if the name you want is available as a web domain, even if you’re not ready to set up a website yet.

Related: Finding a domain name for your business

Obtain business licenses and permits: Depending on your location, there will likely be a variety of general licenses or permits needed before opening. This could include a business license, seller’s permit, and Employer Identification Number (EIN).

Related: State guides for general business licensing

Step 4:  Purchase Equipment & Supplies

Securing the right equipment and supplies is a key step in starting a 3D printing business. This phase can be both thrilling and challenging, as you’ll be turning your business plan into a tangible operation. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to go about purchasing equipment and supplies for a 3D printing business.

Here are some steps to guide you through this process:

Identify your needs : Based on your business plan and the niche you’ve chosen, identify the types of 3D printers, materials, and other equipment you’ll need. For example, if you plan to specialize in prototyping for industrial design, you might need a high-resolution 3D printer capable of using a variety of materials.

Selecting 3D printers: There are various 3D printing technologies, including FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling), SLA (Stereolithography), and SLS (Selective Laser Sintering). Your choice will depend on the products you plan to print. – FDM Printers: Great for prototypes and functional parts. – SLA Printers: Best for high-detail and smooth finish. – SLS Printers: Suitable for complex geometries and industrial parts.

Trade shows, expos, and networking events can provide direct access to suppliers and allow you to see products in person.

Research suppliers : In addition to 3D printers, you’ll need to purchase supplies like printing materials (e.g., PLA, ABS, resin), cleaning supplies, and spare parts. Start with online research to find well-known suppliers in the 3D printing industry. Look for reviews, ratings, and testimonials.

Step 5:  Set Up a Workspace

A new 3D printing business can often be set up in a spare room, but be sure to consider efficiency, safety, and creativity when setting up the space.

First, you’ll want to choose a space with enough room for your printers, computers, and materials. Ensure proper ventilation, as some printing processes may release fumes. Also, climate control is key too, as temperature and humidity can affect print quality.

Organize your workspace with designated areas for printing, assembling, post-processing, and storage. Investing in ergonomic furniture and quality lighting will create a comfortable and productive environment.

Don’t overlook electrical requirements; ensure the space has adequate outlets for all your equipment. Safety measures such as fire extinguishers and first aid kits should also be easily accessible.

Step 6:  Build an Online Presence

Building an online presence for a 3D printing business is an essential step in reaching your target market and expanding your reach. Depending on the specific market you’re targeting, your online strategy may vary.

Here are some ways to create a robust online presence:

Identifying your target market: Understand who you’re targeting: individual consumers, businesses, artists, engineers, or a mix of these. Your online strategy should speak directly to their needs and interests.

Creating a professional website: Regardless of your target market, a professional website serves as your online business card. Include a portfolio, services offered, pricing, and contact information. Tools like WordPress and Shopify can make this easier.

Utilizing social media: Platforms like Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Pinterest can be effective tools for showcasing your work, engaging with customers, and attracting potential clients. Regular posts about your projects, behind-the-scenes processes, and industry-related content can help build your brand’s reputation and visibility.

Selling on online marketplaces: Consider selling your products on online platforms suited for your target market: – Etsy: Perfect for artistic and custom prints. – Amazon or eBay: For general consumer products. – Alibaba: If targeting businesses and bulk orders.

Building an online presence for a 3D printing business isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach. It requires a tailored strategy that resonates with your target market. Whether focusing on consumer products, custom artwork, industrial parts, or educational tools, aligning your online channels, content, and sales platforms with your audience’s needs and interests will position your business for success.

Step 7:  Prepare to Launch!

As you finalize preparations for your 3D printing business, there are several key steps to consider. While these are common steps that most will need to consider, the precise needs for your 3D printing business might differ.

First is securing business insurance . This could include general liability insurance, property insurance, and product liability insurance. These protect against potential liabilities associated with operating a business, damage to your property, or issues with the products you create.

We recommend getting at least three insurance quotes, including local insurance agents and online providers like Coverwallet or Hiscox to get the best coverage and price.

Next, setting up a proper bookkeeping system will help manage business finances, which will make tax time easier. You can use software like Wave Accounting (FREE) or Quickbooks . It’s also advisable to open a separate bank account for your business to keep personal and business finances separate.

Depending on your business model, contracts may be important. For a 3D printing business, these might include service agreements (outlining what you will provide to a client), non-disclosure agreements (if you’re working with proprietary designs), and supplier contracts (for materials or hardware).

RocketLawyer and Law Depot have free and inexpensive templates that may be helpful.

Determining your pricing structure is another important step. Consider the cost of materials, time, electricity, and any post-processing when setting prices.

For accepting payments, be sure to set up credit card processing. Services like Square or Stripe are popular choices that offer simple setups and competitive rates.

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Common Questions When Starting A 3D Printing Business

How much does it cost to start a 3d printing business.

Starting a 3D printing business can be an attractive opportunity, but it comes with its own set of financial considerations. The total cost to get started ranges from around $1,000 to $50,000, depending on various factors such as equipment quality, location, and the scope of your services.

Here’s a breakdown of the primary initial costs:

The costs involved in starting a 3D printing business are primarily made up of the cost of the printer itself and 3D design software . Equipment costs will vary greatly, depending on the niche you plan to go into as the equipment needed to print prototypes for manufacturers is going to be very different from smaller novelty items. Entry-level 3D printers can cost anywhere from $350 to $2,500, while mid-range 3D printers can range from $2,500 to $6,000, and high-end printers can reach $100,000. High-quality 3D design software can also considerably add to your upfront expenses.

Other equipment could include a 3D scanner.

If the cost of equipment is too high, you could start off by providing 3D model design services and then send the file to a printing service.  This is a lower-risk way to get started to see if you can get customers and like this business.

You’ll also need to account for the cost of materials , which can vary depending on what you’re planning to print. This might include various types of 3D printing material like filament or resin, each with its own cost.

Insurance is another cost to consider. While the exact amount will depend on factors like your location and the size of your business, it’s important to budget for this expense in your initial costs.

Marketing expenses for the initial launch of your business could also add to your startup costs. This may include website development, social media advertising, and other promotional activities.

Setting up a workspace or renting a location for your business will also factor into your startup costs. The cost for this can vary widely depending on your location and the size of the space you need.

Remember, these are just estimates, and the exact costs can vary based on a variety of factors. It’s always advisable to do thorough research and create a detailed business plan before starting a 3D printing business.

How profitable is a 3D printing business?

Here’s a detailed paragraph providing an informative insight into the profitability of a 3D printing business:

The profit potential of a 3D printing business varies based on several factors including the market demand, niche, location, business model, and the owner’s ability to control costs.

On average, a 3D printing business can charge between $30 to $150 per hour for printing services depending on complexity, materials, and machine time. So, let’s consider a scenario where the business generates revenue of $100 per hour and operates for 40 hours a week. That’s $4,000 per week or $16,000 per month.

Now, the expenses can include the cost of materials, rent, utilities, maintenance, marketing, and salaries, which may sum up to approximately $8,000 per month.

Using a simple formula of Revenue – Expenses, the calculation would be $16,000 (Revenue) – $8,000 (Expenses) = $8,000 (Profit) per month. Annually, this translates to a profit of $96,000.

Of course, these numbers can fluctuate, and individual results may vary widely. It’s essential to conduct detailed market research and craft a solid business plan tailored to the specific circumstances of your location and target market to get a more accurate assessment of potential profitability.

What skills are needed to run a 3D printing business?

Running a 3D printing business requires a blend of technical, managerial, and interpersonal skills. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need:

3D modeling and design: Understanding how to create and manipulate 3D models using various software tools is key. You’ll need to interpret and modify designs as per client requirements.

Printer operation and maintenance: Being familiar with the different types of 3D printers, their operation, calibration, and maintenance is crucial for producing quality prints.

Material knowledge: Knowing the properties and applications of various printing materials like PLA, ABS, or resin helps in selecting the right material for each project.

Strategic planning: Ability to develop a business plan, set goals, and make informed decisions that align with the business’s vision.

Financial management: You need to be adept at budgeting, forecasting, and managing finances to ensure profitability.

Communication: Clear and concise communication with clients, suppliers, and team members is essential.

Customer service: Providing excellent service to build strong relationships with customers and encourage repeat business.

Compliance: Knowledge of relevant regulations, intellectual property laws, and maintaining compliance with legal requirements.

What is the NAICS code for a 3D printing business?

The NAICS code for a 3D printing service is 323111, which is categorized under Commercial Printing.

The NAICS code (North American Industry Classification System) is a federal system to classify different types of businesses for the collection and reporting of statistical data.

Related: What is a NAICS code and how to find yours

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Small Business Trends

How to start a 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 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.

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

Starting a 3d printing business.

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

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.

Identifying and Specializing in Your Target Market

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

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

Setting up a 3d printing workspace.

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

Opening a Business Bank Account

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 business insurance, 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.

Ensuring Quality and Consistency with Skills and Training

Marketing and branding for your 3d printing 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.

Sustainability and Ethical Considerations in 3D Printing

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

Keeping up with technological advancements.

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?

Which niche markets are the most profitable.

How to Create 3D Printing Business Plan

Blog > how to create 3d printing business plan, table of content, introduction, executive summary, market analysis, business model and services, competitive analysis, marketing and sales strategies, operations and workflow, talent and workforce, financial projections and funding, legal and regulatory considerations, sustainability and environmental impact, risk analysis and contingency plans, technology and innovation, implementation plan, our other categories.

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Business plan 101.

The world of 3D printing is witnessing exponential growth, revolutionizing industries with its endless possibilities. As an aspiring entrepreneur in the 3D printing domain, you understand the significance of a well-crafted business plan in guiding your venture towards success. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the essential steps of creating a solid 3D printing business plan that will attract investors, inspire confidence in customers, and drive growth in your startup.

At Stellar Business Plans , we are dedicated to providing expert guidance and support to entrepreneurs like you. With our proven track record in 3D printing ventures and a team of industry specialists, we are confident that together, we will turn your dream of owning a thriving 3D printing business into reality.

In this section, we present an overview of your 3D printing business and define its vision, mission, and objectives. We also highlight your unique selling proposition and what sets your business apart from competitors.

Overview of Your 3D Printing Business:

• Briefly introduce your 3D printing startup, including its name, location, and primary services offered.
• Highlight key milestones achieved and the driving force behind the venture’s inception.

Defining Vision, Mission, and Objectives:

• Clearly articulate the long-term vision and mission of your 3D printing business, outlining the impact you aim to make in the industry.
• Define specific short-term and long-term objectives that will guide your company’s growth and development.

Unique Selling Proposition (USP) and Market Differentiation:

• Present your unique value proposition that sets your 3D printing business apart from competitors.
• Explain how your business offers innovative solutions, high-quality prints, faster turnaround times, or customized services to cater to diverse customer needs.

The success of your 3D printing venture relies on a comprehensive understanding of the industry, target markets, and current trends. In this section, we delve into the intricacies of the 3D printing industry and identify lucrative growth opportunities.

Understanding the 3D Printing Industry:

• Analyze the current state of the 3D printing industry, its market size, and projected growth.
• Discuss key factors driving the industry’s expansion, such as advancements in materials, technologies, and applications.

Identifying Target Markets and Applications:

• Profile your primary target markets for 3D printing services, such as aerospace, automotive, healthcare, education, and consumer goods.
• Explore emerging applications for 3D printing, including bioprinting, personalized healthcare, and sustainable manufacturing.

Analyzing Current Trends and Future Growth Opportunities:

• Identify and analyze recent trends shaping the 3D printing industry, such as the shift towards mass customization and Industry 4.0 integration.
• Forecast future growth opportunities, such as potential partnerships with other industries and international market expansion.

The 3D printing industry offers various business models and service offerings. In this section, we help you define your business model and explore the different types of 3D printing services you can provide.

3D Printing Business Model Options:

• Explain various business models, such as operating as a service bureau, contract manufacturing, or developing proprietary products.
• Discuss the pros and cons of each model and determine which aligns best with your business objectives.

Types of 3D Printing Services Offered:

• Detail the range of 3D printing services your business will offer, including rapid prototyping, low-volume production, and custom manufacturing.
• Discuss the benefits and applications of each service type in different industries.

Leveraging Additive Manufacturing Technologies:

• Highlight the different additive manufacturing technologies your 3D printing business will utilize, such as Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM), Stereolithography (SLA), Selective Laser Sintering (SLS), and Binder Jetting.
• Explain the strengths of each technology and their compatibility with specific materials and applications.

To thrive in the 3D printing industry, it is crucial to understand your competition and identify areas where your business can gain a competitive edge. In this section, we conduct a thorough competitive analysis and explore ways to differentiate your business from competitors.

Identifying Key Competitors in the 3D Printing Industry:

• Conduct market research to identify direct and indirect competitors operating in the 3D printing industry.
• Analyze their market presence, service offerings, client base, and pricing strategies.

Evaluating Their Strengths and Weaknesses:

• Assess the strengths and weaknesses of your competitors, such as technological capabilities, production capacity, and customer satisfaction levels.
• Identify opportunities where your business can outperform competitors and address potential threats.

Differentiating Your 3D Printing Business from Competitors:

• Highlight your unique value proposition and how it addresses customers’ pain points better than competitors.
• Communicate your commitment to delivering exceptional quality, superior customer service, or innovative solutions.

An effective marketing and sales strategy will help your 3D printing business reach its target audience and drive revenue. In this section, we outline essential marketing tactics to promote your services.

Creating a Strong Brand Identity:

• Develop a compelling brand identity that resonates with your target audience and reflects your company’s values and mission.
• Design a visually appealing logo and brand collateral that communicates professionalism and innovation.

Effective Digital Marketing Campaigns:

• Outline your digital marketing strategies, such as search engine optimization (SEO), content marketing, and online advertising.
• Emphasize the significance of a user-friendly and visually appealing website to showcase your 3D printing services.

Leveraging Social Media and Online Platforms:

• Identify social media platforms relevant to your target audience and craft engaging content to build a strong online presence.
• Explore online marketplaces and platforms to expand your customer base and drive sales.

Developing Strategic Partnerships and Sales Channels:

• Explore opportunities for strategic partnerships with other businesses, such as design studios, engineering firms, and creative agencies.
• Define sales channels, such as direct sales, resellers, or e-commerce, and outline the benefits of each channel.

The operational efficiency of your 3D printing business will directly impact customer satisfaction and profitability. In this section, we guide you through setting up the 3D printing facility, selecting suitable equipment, and optimizing workflow.

Setting Up the 3D Printing Facility:

• Detail the infrastructure requirements for your 3D printing facility, including space, utilities, and ventilation.
• Discuss considerations for facility location, such as proximity to suppliers and target markets.

Selecting Suitable 3D Printers and Materials:

• Evaluate various 3D printer options available in the market and select the ones that align with your service offerings and budget.
• Highlight the materials compatible with each 3D printer and their applications in different industries.

Ensuring Quality Control and Print Validation:

• Describe your quality control procedures to ensure consistent and high-quality 3D prints.
• Implement rigorous print validation processes to verify accuracy and reliability.

Optimizing Workflow for Efficiency:

• Map out the workflow from order intake to final product delivery, ensuring efficiency and minimal lead times.
• Identify potential bottlenecks and implement measures to streamline operations.

Your team is the backbone of your 3D printing business. In this section, we focus on recruiting skilled professionals, nurturing a creative work culture, and retaining talent.

Recruiting and Training Skilled 3D Printing Technicians:

• Define the skills and qualifications required for 3D printing technicians and specialists.
• Outline your recruitment strategies, including online job portals, professional networks, and partnerships with educational institutions.

Nurturing a Creative and Innovative Work Culture:

• Cultivate a work environment that fosters creativity, innovation, and continuous learning.
• Encourage employees to experiment with new technologies and techniques to enhance your 3D printing services.

Employee Retention Strategies:

• Develop strategies to retain skilled employees and reduce turnover, such as providing competitive compensation packages, growth opportunities, and recognition programs.
• Highlight the importance of a positive work environment and open communication.

In this critical section, we dive into financial projections for your 3D printing business, estimating startup costs, projecting revenue, and identifying potential funding sources.

Estimating Startup Costs and Capital Investment:

• Conduct a detailed analysis of the initial investment required to launch your 3D printing business, including equipment, facility setup, marketing, and working capital.
• Use realistic and data-driven estimates to present a comprehensive financial picture.

Financial Forecasts for Revenue and Expenses:

• Prepare financial projections for the first few years of your 3D printing business, including revenue forecasts, cost of goods sold, operating expenses, and net profit margins.
• Analyze the financial viability of your business and its growth potential.

Identifying Funding Sources:

• Explore different funding options, such as angel investors, venture capital, small business loans, or government grants.
• Provide a plan for repayment and return on investment for potential investors.

Compliance with legal requirements is crucial for a successful 3D printing business. In this section, we cover intellectual property protection, safety regulations, and contractual agreements.

Understanding Intellectual Property Rights and Patents:

• Explain the importance of intellectual property protection for your 3D printing designs and technologies.
• Discuss the process of obtaining patents and trademarks to safeguard your innovations.

Complying with Safety and Industry Regulations:

• Detail the safety regulations and certifications required for operating a 3D printing business, especially in industries like healthcare and aerospace.
• Ensure compliance with industry standards to gain trust from customers and regulatory authorities.

Contractual Agreements and Liability Protection:

• Address legal agreements required in your 3D printing business, such as service contracts, Non-Disclosure Agreements (NDAs), and liability waivers.
• Work with legal professionals to protect your business from potential legal disputes and liabilities.

As sustainability gains importance, your 3D printing business can make a positive impact by adopting eco-friendly practices. In this section, we emphasize sustainability in your operations.

Implementing Sustainable Practices in 3D Printing:

• Highlight the benefits of using eco-friendly materials and recycling waste in your 3D printing processes.
• Showcase your commitment to reducing the environmental impact of your business.

Reducing Waste and Energy Consumption:

• Discuss strategies to minimize material waste during the 3D printing process, such as optimizing print parameters and recycling excess materials.
• Implement energy-efficient practices to reduce the environmental footprint of your 3D printing facility.

Promoting Eco-friendly Materials and Processes:

• Emphasize the use of biodegradable, recycled, or renewable materials in your 3D printing services.
• Educate customers about the environmental benefits of choosing sustainable 3D printing solutions.

Every business faces risks, and in this section, we identify potential challenges and devise contingency plans to ensure business continuity.

Identifying Potential Risks and Challenges:

• Conduct a thorough risk assessment, considering internal and external factors that may impact your 3D printing business.
• Identify potential risks, such as technological obsolescence, market fluctuations, supply chain disruptions, and intellectual property infringement.

Developing Risk Mitigation Strategies:

• Outline risk mitigation strategies to address identified risks proactively.
• Implement backup plans and preventive measures to reduce the impact of unforeseen events.

Creating Contingency Plans for Adverse Scenarios:

• Develop contingency plans for critical situations, such as financial crises, natural disasters, or sudden declines in market demand.
• Ensure your business remains resilient and adaptable in challenging times.

Innovation is essential in the 3D printing industry. In this section, we explore the latest advancements in 3D printing technologies and how you can leverage them to stay competitive.

Embracing Advancements in 3D Printing Technologies:

• Stay updated with the latest advancements in 3D printing technologies and assess their potential applications in your business.
• Collaborate with technology providers or research institutions to access cutting-edge equipment and expertise.

Collaborating with R&D and Universities:

• Explore opportunities for collaboration with research and development institutions or universities to enhance your technological capabilities and stay at the forefront of innovation.
• Consider partnering on joint research projects or accessing government-funded research programs.

Investing in Research and Development:

• Allocate resources for in-house research and development initiatives to develop proprietary 3D printing technologies or unique solutions.
• Highlight how your investment in R&D will contribute to the continuous improvement of your services and competitiveness.

With a detailed implementation plan, you can streamline the process of launching and growing your 3D printing business.

Developing a Comprehensive Timeline:

• Create a detailed timeline for launching your 3D printing business, including pre-launch preparations and post-launch activities.
• Set specific milestones and deadlines to track progress and achievements.

Setting Milestones and Key Performance Indicators (KPIs):

• Define key performance indicators to measure the success of your 3D printing business.
• Use KPIs to monitor the business’s financial performance, customer satisfaction, and operational efficiency.

Assigning Responsibilities and Roles:

• Allocate responsibilities to team members based on their skills and expertise.
• Establish clear roles and communication channels to ensure smooth collaboration among team members.

The journey to establishing a successful 3D printing business begins with a well-crafted business plan that aligns your vision with market trends and customer needs. At Stellar Business Plans, we are committed to partnering with you on this exciting journey, providing expert guidance, and ensuring your venture reaches new heights in the dynamic world of 3D printing. With our support and your passion for innovation, your 3D printing business is poised to make a lasting impact in various industries.

Start Your Journey With Us

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Updated On : September 1, 2023

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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 June 21, 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

Here are the most important things to consider when starting a 3D printing business:

• Home-based business — Consider operating your business from home as it will reduce your monthly expenses and allow you to test the market viability with minimal financial commitment.
• Equipment — You will need a 3D printer. Many options are available on the market, such as Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) , Stereolithography (SLA) , or Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) , so it’s a good idea to invest in a high-quality printer, test out some designs, and get familiar with the technology. 
• Materials — Depending on the 3D printer you will need printing materials such as filament for FDM printers, resins for SLA printers, or powders for SLS printers.
• Niche — Decide what you want to make (art, custom parts, repair parts, personalized designs).
• 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 on the market.
• Legal business aspects — Register for taxes, open a business bank account, and get an EIN .
• Intellectual property laws — Get familiar with intellectual property laws , copyrights to designs, patented products, and trademarks to avoid legal pitfalls.

Interactive Checklist at your fingertips—begin your 3D printing business today!

You May Also Wonder:

How profitable can a 3D printing business be?

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.

How much does a 3d printer cost?

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.

What materials are used in 3d printing?

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

How much does 3d printing material cost?

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.

Can 3D printing be a side hustle?

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

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

Related Business Ideas

How to Start a Printing Business

How to Start a Mug Printing Business

How to Start a Web Design Business

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

Powered by GoDaddy.com

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.

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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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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.

Choose Your State to Learn How to Form an LLC There

• Alabama LLC
• Arizona LLC
• Arkansas LLC
• California LLC
• Colorado LLC
• Connecticut LLC
• Delaware LLC
• Florida LLC
• Georgia LLC
• Illinois LLC
• Indiana LLC
• Kentucky LLC
• Louisiana LLC
• Maryland LLC
• Massachusetts LLC
• Michigan LLC
• Minnesota LLC
• Mississippi LLC
• Missouri LLC
• Montana LLC
• Nebraska LLC
• New Hampshire LLC
• New Jersey LLC
• New Mexico LLC
• New York LLC
• North Carolina LLC
• North Dakota LLC
• Oklahoma LLC
• Pennsylvania LLC
• Rhode Island LLC
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• Tennessee LLC
• Vermont LLC
• Virginia LLC
• Washington LLC
• West Virginia LLC
• Wisconsin LLC
• Wyoming LLC

Or Make your life easier with Wise Business Plans

Get the easiest and fastest LLC formation online with worry-free services and support. 

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?

Need help with your business plan? We are the largest and most reputable  business plan writing company  in the US. Providing high-quality, beautifully designed and highly detailed business plans at reasonable prices is our specialty.

Over 3,000 projects have been completed in almost every industry. Our business plans are used for strategic planning, internal planning, investor fundraising, and bank financing. 

In the past year, we have assisted 3,000+ companies across 150 industries obtain debt and equity funding totaling $1 billion.

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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How to Start a 3D Printing Business

Home » Business ideas » Technology Industry » 3D Printing Business

Do you want to start a 3D printing business? If YES, here is a detailed guide on how to start a 3D printing business with no money and no experience plus a   sample 3D printing business plan template.

To make things simpler, 3D means three dimensional printing which means an additive technology in which objects are built up in a great many very thin layers. Even without experts saying it, we all know that 3D Printing is steadily becoming one of the most popular trends all over the world.

Let us all take a moment to envisage a future in which a device connected to a computer can print a solid object. A society in which we can have tangible goods as well as intangible services delivered to our desktops or high-street shops over the Internet.

3D printing offers a wide range of business opportunities that can rain cash into your bank account now and even more in the future since it is a business that will get better with time. 3D printing is the next big thing in the printing industry.

17 Steps to Starting a 3D Printing Business

1. understand the industry.

The 3D printing market is expected to garner $8.6 billion by 2022, registering a CAGR of 21% from 2015 – 2022. 3D printing is also referred as additive printing technology that lets manufacturers to develop objects using a digital file and variety of printing materials.

The global market for 3D printing materials includes polymers, metals and ceramics. Also 3D printing offers a wide array of applications in various industries, namely consumer products, industrial products, defense & aerospace, automotive, healthcare, education & research and others.

From detailed analysis, we believe that the factors driving this market are reduction of errors, high degree of accuracy, efficient use of raw materials, ability to build customized products, simultaneous use of multiple materials for printing, efficient use of production time and finances, and competency over traditional techniques among others.

High production cost to individual users, expensive 3D printing software, lack of channel partner assistance, and scarcity of skilled labour are some of the factors mitigating the global 3D printing industry. Reports have it that the global market for 3D printing has been segmented based on component, application and geography. Based on component, the market is classified into technology, material and services.

Application wise, the market is categorized into consumer products, aerospace, defense, education and research, automotive, industrial, and others. We believe that the consumer products industry has been the highest revenue generating segment and it is expected to be the highest generating segment even during the forecasted period.

2. Conduct Market Research and Feasibility Studies

• Demographics and Psychographics

Without even stating it, it is very obvious that 3D printing is a growing area of technology, and many are interested in learning more about the opportunities their business could benefit from with the use of a 3D printer.

A lot of companies are already pioneering new advances by reducing labour and production costs and creating goods for their businesses to sell, although costs will need to come down even further to make 3D printing the everyday 21st century version of a trip to the hardware store.

But no matter how sweet and eager it may sound, you should make adequate market research before you start this business. Note that it is your duty to dictate and make sure you develop strategic pacts with corporate organizations, advertising, branding agencies, and religious organizations et al. Outlined below is the list of sectors that always need the services you are willing to provide;

• 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

3. Decide Which Niche to Concentrate On

Indeed the beauty of 3D printing is that it completely fades the lines between the traditional notion of ‘producers’ and ‘consumers,’ leading to an entirely new category: the ‘prosumer’. Not just by mere words but with facts, today’s entry-level 3D printers, for example, empower makers to produce novel, commercial-grade products easily and affordably in their very own homes.

There are several distinct trends in consumer goods manufacturing. Today’s buyers demand mass customization, local production, and sustainable materials—all of which 3D printing can provide. Which is why starting this business is the next best thing, but you need to focus on a particular niche if you wish to survive in this industry. These niches may include;

• Customized TV printing
• Jewelry and ornament production
• 3D product selling
• 3D Ultrasound
• Bio-printing
• Corporate printing service
• 3D modelling
• Apparel designing
• Pills production
• Firearms production
• 3D blogging
• 3D movie production
• 3D architecture
• 3D selfish studio
• 3D art printing etc.

The Level of Competition in the Industry

Simply put, businesses in the 3D Printing industry offer 3D printing and rapid prototyping services. A 3D printing service is the automatic construction of physical objects using additive manufacturing technology. Note that this 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.

This particular industry over time has experienced rapid growth and this is due to rapid technological advancements, falling costs and new uses for 3D printing technology. We believe that the demand for 3D printing and rapid prototyping service and of course the revenue generated is expected to increase rapidly as 3D printing and rapid prototyping explodes in popularity and accessibility, especially in consumer markets.

We also believe that this Industry is indeed a very large industry and pretty much active in all the parts of the world. Analysis has it that in the united states of America alone, there are about 151 registered and licensed 3D printing and rapid prototyping service companies responsible for employing about 3,814 and the industry rakes in a whooping sum of $492 million annually.

This shows that this industry is becoming very popular and rising, and with this comes competition and fight for industry shares.

4. Know Your Major Competitors in the Industry

• Hewlett Packard
• Materialise
• Autodesk, Inc.
• The ExOne Company
• Optomec, Inc.
• Ponoko Limited
• Voxeljet AG.

Economic Analysis

Indeed making money online is not easy as it seems from the outside; it needs lots of work and patience. If you see entrepreneurs who make millions of dollars online, keep in mind that they have worked hard and invested years in their business.

But unlike those money-making ways that need lots of effort and money to invest, the 3D printing is a unique business that you run online. In this industry, you can even create an attractive iPhone or iPad case, then create it in your printer and show it in action through a video tutorial. People will trust the product because they see it on your hands.

It is very obvious that the 3D Printer Profits come with lots of resources, and it will save you years of searching for profitable niches. Only the smartphone market is huge enough to accept thousands of 3D printing companies, that is why there is no real competition actually.

So, this is the market to invest your time from now on. One unique thing about this new business is that it will never stop working. Everything in this world can be printed in 3D and sold. The huge demon on 3D printer products and prototype is going crazy.

5. Decide Whether to Buy a Franchise or Start from Scratch

From our detailed research, we have been able to ascertain that the advantages of buying a 3D printing franchise instead of starting a new business venture are quite great and attractive. But it is very important to note that buying a franchise isn’t necessarily a bed of roses.

For you to get a franchise that suits your goals, you need to strictly evaluate the factors involved with buying a franchise, you need to do your research even before deciding to commit yourself. It is your right to make sure the business is the right fit for your personal and professional goals.

Buying a franchise indeed has its own issues and challenges, and with the speed at which this industry is growing, you will need to brace yourself with information and innovations.

For you to achieve your primary goal of building a unique business, note that you can become an industry franchisee instead of starting from the scratch. If you have decided to start a 3D printing business, we advise that you do the following;

• Try to research the history of the company
• Know what you want and if it is the best of you
• Hope for the Best But Plan for the Worst
• Negotiate for a Good Price

6. Know the Possible Threats and Challenges You Will Face

Have it in mind that 3D Printing is one of the key elements of the era of the factory of the future. 3D printing services is like that innovation machine that make it possible for any person or business with a 3D file to virtually run their own 3D printing factory, distantly, and go from a file to an object, easily, at a moderated cost, and without the need to invest in machines and in their running, maintenance and update. Possible challenges of starting this business may include;

• Combining software and hardware
• Analysing and repair of 3D files
• 3D Printing means permanent renewal
• The delicacies of 3D printing
• Meeting clients’ expectations, just with their 3D file
• Getting experienced 3D printing technicians

7. Choose the Most Suitable Legal Entity (LLC, C Corp, S Corp)

When deciding on the exact legal structure that will suit your business, you have two options- sole proprietorship and the LLC. Between the two structures mentioned, you need to choose based on the size and vision you have for your business.

Since your business is all about the income and interest of your clients, the LLC is the best legal entity for your business be is it small, medium or large. It is important to state that the advantage of creating an LLC typically outweigh any perceived disadvantages. The merits include;

• Few restrictions
• Limited compliance requirements
• Protected assets
• Flexible management structure

8. Choose a Catchy Business Name

• Access Print
• Brain Printing
• Breadbox Studio
• Future zone
• Manny printing
• Future mode
• Nivometric Technologies
• Quick Parts
• Rethink Robotics
• Sound Print
• Everyday print
• Solid Print
• Solid Prototype

9. Discuss with an Agent to Know the Best Insurance Policies for You

Indeed 3D printing is fast becoming a game-changer in the way we do business. But you should note that with new innovations come unexpected risks, which is why it is very important that you understand the potential risks before starting your 3D printing business.

When selling or manufacturing products, whether they are produced through traditional manufacturing or 3D printing, it is essential to work with an insurance broker who has experience in Product liability. Insurance you will need may include;

• General Liability Insurance
• property insurance
• Equipment Breakdown Insurance
• commercial auto insurance
• umbrella insurance
• Workers’ Compensation
• crime insurance

10. Protect your Intellectual Property With Trademark, Copyrights, Patents

In case you do not know, 3D printing has been around for decades within certain manufacturing industries where many legal regimes, including patents, industrial design rights, copyright, and trademark may apply. But there is not much jurisprudence to explain the way these laws will apply if 3D printers become mainstream and individuals and hobbyist communities begin manufacturing items for personal use, for non-profit distribution, or for sale.

We believe that any of the mentioned legal regimes may mitigate the distribution of the designs used in 3D printing, or the distribution or sale of the printed item. For one to be able to do these things where an active intellectual property is involved, a person would have to contact the owner and ask for a license, which may come with conditions and a price.

But we believe that many patents, designs and copyright laws contain a standard limitation or exception for ‘private’, ‘non-commercial’ use of inventions, designs or works of art protected under intellectual property (IP). Have it in mind that Patents cover inventions including processes, machines, manufactures, and compositions of matter and have a finite duration which varies between countries, but generally 20 years from the date of application.

That is why if a type of wheel is patented, printing, using, or selling such a wheel could be an infringement of the patent registered.

It is very important to state that Copyright covers an expression in a tangible, fixed medium and often lasts for the life of the author plus 70 years after his or her death. This means that if someone makes a statue, they may have copyright on the look of that statue, so if someone sees that statue, they cannot distribute designs or print an identical or similar statue during or after the person’s lifetime.

11. Get the Necessary Professional Certification

We believe that this industry certification has not been made popular or is not yet in limelight, but it still doesn’t mean that getting a few or some certifications won’t set you apart in the industry. No matter how light or beyond the light as they might be, there is a need for you to consider taking and getting them before venturing into the business. They are,

• 3D printer certification
• Professional Certificate of Competency in 3D Engineering Design and Printing for Rapid Prototyping
• Professional Certificate Program in Innovation and Technology
• 3DVinci creations certification

12. Get the Necessary Legal Documents You Need to Operate

• Articles of Organization
• LLC operating agreement
• Business license
• Business plan

13. Raise the Needed Startup Capital

Building a 3D printing business means having the money to buy all the items needed to start your business and more. If you have been working on a profitable business plan but you don’t have the financial means to get things started, you can still get funding as long as you don’t need a very huge amount. You can seek capital in a number of ways:

Crowdfunding websites

Note that these websites allows you to gain access to different types of investors. Be it the general public, philanthropists, or accredited investors, each one can all help you realize your dream.

Accelerators

We believe that these programs have a set time frame in which start-ups spend a few weeks working with a group of mentors. The goal is to build your business and learn how to avoid inevitable problems along the way. Companies are given a small seed investment, but there is a catch, they have to provide a small amount of equity in exchange.

Have it in mind when starting a 3D printing business that you might also want to read a bit more about incubators. A typical business incubator will provide you with office space and management training. More than half of these programs are mixed, meaning that they work with clients coming from different industries. Technology incubators make for 39 percent of the total of incubation programs.

Angel networks

Know that an angel investor not only invests in your dream, but they will also offer mentorship and provide access to their contacts.

14. Choose a Suitable Location for your Business

Just like starting any other business, you will need to carefully choose a business location. Take your time to look at other technology related businesses in your proposed location. They can be noticed easily because it is hard to come across a business area that does not have a technology inclined business.

Most technology related businesses choose their locations using population density, average adjusted gross income (AGI) in that surrounding area, and proximity to their target market. Since the 3D printing business is a technology business and one that will stand the test of time, we advise that you leverage on the same factors when choosing locations for your business. We also advice that you know the specific area you are considering very well.

15. Hire Employees for your Technical and Manpower Needs

Starting a 3D printing business is not as easy as walking in the park, especially since it still sounds a bit futuristic to most of us. Some few years back, this business was sounding like something intangible. But a lot has happened over the past few years, and now you can build a profitable business with a 3D printer. The 3D revolution is expected to surpass more traditional methods of manufacturing. Things you will need to start this business may include;

As a beginner, it is advisable that you buy an in-house printer and start your projects from there slowly. A lot 3D printing companies use a third-party 3D vendor, yet outsourcing is not always the quickest way to get the project done. It may lower your costs, but it doesn’t make up for the inevitable delays. Have it in mind that the type of 3D printer you are going to buy solely depends on the work you are going to be doing.

It is very essential to note that 3D printers don’t come with the materials needed to print the products; you will need to get them separately. Different types of products require different materials. We believe there are two materials used for 3D printing. You have the Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) and the Poly Lactic Acid (PLA).

The latter is excellent for beginners, but the models it creates may change under high heat. But the ABC indeed is a popular choice for businesses due to its strength and flexibility. But you should note that not all printers can work with both materials, this is why you need to choose both material and printer best suited for the type of products you are planning to manufacture.

We believe that there are lots of exceptional open-source software within the big and vast internet archive for you. But as your company grows, you can invest in a one-year license for a 3D modelling software if you wish.

It is very important that you take your time to invest in your business by taking 3D animation courses. Both you and your staff should be well-trained in the art of 3D printing. You can either take online classes or look for a tech school in your area.

The Service Delivery Process of the Business

There are different processes and methods in this business. The main differences between processes are in the way layers are deposited to create parts and in the materials that are used. We believe that each process has its own advantages and drawbacks, which is why some companies offer a choice of powder and polymer for the material used to build the object; while others sometimes use standard, off-the-shelf business paper as the build material to produce a durable prototype.

But the major considerations in choosing a machine are generally speed, cost of the 3D printer, the printed prototype, choice and cost of the materials, and colour capabilities. In this business, some processes melt or soften the material to produce the layers. In Fused filament fabrication, also known as Fused deposition modelling (FDM), the model or part is produced by throwing out small beads or streams of material which get strong immediately to form layers.

Note that a filament of thermoplastic, metal wire, or other material is fed into an extrusion nozzle head (3D printer extruder), where it heats the material and turns the flow on and off. We believe that FDM is somewhat restricted in the variation of shapes that may be fabricated.

Also another technique in 3D printing fuses parts of the layer and then moves upward in the working area, adding another layer of granules and repeating the process until the piece has built up. Have it in mind that this process uses the unfused media to support overhangs and thin walls in the part being produced, which shortens the need for temporary auxiliary supports for the piece.

Always note that the Laser sintering techniques is made up of selective laser sintering, with both metals and polymers, and direct metal laser sintering. This selective laser melting does not use sintering for the fusion of powder granules but has to completely melt the powder using a high-energy laser to create fully dense materials in a layer-wise method that has mechanical properties like those of conventional manufactured metals.

Though Electron beam melting is a similar type of additive manufacturing technology for metal parts (e.g. titanium alloys). But it manufactures parts by melting metal powder layer by layer with an electron beam in a high vacuum.

It is also important to note that another method consists of an inkjet 3D printing system, which builds the model one layer at a time by spreading a layer of powder (plaster, or resins) and printing a binder in the cross-section of the part using an inkjet-like process. Have it in mind that with laminated object manufacturing, thin layers are cut to shape and joined together.

This business surely has many more processes discovered and yet to be discovered, and they might depend on the kind of job you want to perform. Just be very careful to decide what you need and how best to get the very result you want. Running this business is very hard but with consistency and planning, you can sure be very successful.

16. Write a Marketing Plan Packed with ideas & Strategies

We cannot deny how important marketing is to the business world. In this particular case, you need to devise means to effectively claim market shares before the industry becomes saturated. There are many ways to do this and they include;

Having a website

When you have a good website, you can effectively explain your services and your rates, and give potential customers information about you and your professional background. Having a website will also give you the opportunity to share relevant information that individuals might find interesting and helpful.

Making use of marketing materials

Make use of inexpensive marketing materials such as business cards and postcards. We advise you drop these off with ventures and businesses around you.

Mouth to mouth advertising

One very crucial way of spreading information about your business is to get referrals from family and friends. We believe that they would create the initial buzz for your business and provide the bulk of the testimonials on your website.

Making use of customer’s testimonies

Making us of your customer’s testimonials will go a long way to prove to people that you know what you are doing. That way people who visit your site can see that your services work and are motivated to patronize you.

17. Develop Strategies to Boost Brand Awareness and Create a Corporate Identity

There are countless ways you can promote your business. Below are the best methods that require only small investment from your part:

Social media

It is important for you to know that starting a 3D printing business means making a name for yourself. You can start by identifying influencers and engage with them. Sooner or later, those individuals will create some buzz around your service. We also advice that you use social channels such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Google+ to keep them and your customers up to date of your accomplishments.

Have it in mind that online advertising is one of the top ways a starting business can expand its reach and find new customers. In this strategy, you have many options available such as pay-per-click, paid social media, display advertising, and in-app ads. Note that direct website advertising is also a good idea.

Embedded marketing

We believe that embedded marketing or product placement often involves ads placed within videos, shows, online stories, or other types of media. Be it links, written words, video, or visuals, the way you use it depends on your objectives and budget. But this marketing technique is beneficial for the viewers as well.

In this brand promotional strategy, a reseller will buy a batch of your products and sell them at a higher cost. But the advantage is that these partners often visit potential buyers in person and tell them about the product. But you will have to sell your models at a discount price to the reseller.

Promotional goods

Note that almost anything can be branded with your company’s name or logo, but you can also give away 3D printed products. Have it in mind that this industry you have decided to join does not have the same restrictions as others. So you can easily provide your possible customers with something else than just the standard branded t-shirt.

Related Posts:

• 50 Best 3d Printing Business ideas You Can Start Today
• 3D Printing Business Plan [Sample Template]
• How to Start a 3D Figurine Printing Business
• 50 Best 3D Printed Items and Products You Can Sell

3D Printing Business Plan Template [Updated 2024]

3D Printing Business Plan Template

If you want to start a 3D Printing business or expand your current 3D Printing business, you need a business plan.

The following 3D Printing business plan template gives you the key elements to include in a winning 3D Printing business plan.

You can download our business plan template (including a full, customizable financial model) to your computer here.

Below are links to each of the key sections of a successful 3D Printing business plan. Once you create your plan, download it to PDF to show banks and investors.

3D Printing Business Plan Home I. Executive Summary II. Company Overview III. Industry Analysis IV. Customer Analysis V. Competitive Analysis VI. Marketing Plan VII. Operations Plan VIII. Management Team IX. Financial Plan

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Creating a 3D Business Plan: A Comprehensive Guide

Welcome to our comprehensive guide on creating a 3D business plan. In today’s rapidly evolving business landscape, having a traditional business plan may no longer be enough to stand out from the competition. This is where a 3D business plan comes into play.

In this blog post, we will explore the concept and importance of a 3D business plan, as well as the key differences between traditional and 3D business plans. We will then delve into the components of a 3D business plan, covering areas such as understanding your business model, creating a financial projection, conducting risk analysis and management, developing a marketing and sales strategy, and crafting an operational plan.

But what sets a 3D business plan apart is its ability to provide a visual representation of your business concept. We will guide you through the process of choosing the right 3D software, creating a 3D model of your business plan, exploring different views and angles, and incorporating interactive elements. By leveraging 3D technology, you can bring your business plan to life and enhance its impact.

Of course, creating a 3D business plan is just the first step. In this guide, we will also provide tips on how to effectively present your 3D business plan. From preparing for a 3D presentation to mastering effective communication techniques, we will equip you with the necessary skills to deliver a captivating pitch and handle questions and feedback with confidence.

To further inspire and guide you, we will showcase real-life case studies and examples of successful 3D business plans. By examining these examples, you will gain valuable insights into how businesses have leveraged 3D technology to attract investors, secure funding, and achieve their goals.

Whether you are a startup entrepreneur, a business owner looking to revamp your existing plan, or simply curious about the possibilities of 3D business planning, this comprehensive guide will provide you with the knowledge and tools to create a compelling and visually stunning 3D business plan. So let’s dive in and unlock the potential of your business through the world of 3D.

Introduction to 3D Business Plan

In this section, we will provide an introduction to the concept of a 3D business plan and highlight its importance in today’s business landscape.

Concept and Importance of a 3D Business Plan

A traditional business plan typically consists of written documents and financial projections that outline the goals, strategies, and operations of a business. While this format has been effective for many years, it may not always capture the attention and imagination of potential investors, partners, or stakeholders.

A 3D business plan takes the traditional concept to a whole new level by incorporating visual elements and interactive features. It allows you to present your business idea in a three-dimensional virtual space, providing a more immersive and engaging experience for your audience.

The importance of a 3D business plan lies in its ability to enhance communication and understanding. By visualizing your business concept, you can effectively convey your ideas, strategies, and value propositions to others, making it easier for them to grasp the potential of your venture.

Furthermore, a 3D business plan demonstrates your commitment to innovation and staying ahead of the curve. It showcases your willingness to embrace technology and utilize it to your advantage. In today’s competitive business environment, having a unique and visually appealing business plan can set you apart from the competition and capture the attention of potential investors and partners.

By incorporating 3D elements into your business plan, you can create a memorable and impactful presentation that leaves a lasting impression on your audience. This can increase your chances of securing funding, partnerships, and other resources necessary for the success of your business.

In the next sections, we will explore the components of a 3D business plan in more detail, providing practical tips and strategies to help you create a comprehensive and visually stunning plan. So let’s dive in and unlock the potential of 3D business planning!

Components of a 3D Business Plan

In this section, we will delve into the key components that make up a 3D business plan. These components are crucial for providing a comprehensive and strategic overview of your business.

Understanding Your Business Model

A solid understanding of your business model is essential for creating a successful 3D business plan. This involves identifying your target market, defining your unique value proposition, and understanding how your business will generate revenue. By clearly articulating your business model, you can showcase the viability and profitability of your venture.

Creating a Financial Projection

A financial projection is a crucial component of any business plan, including a 3D business plan. It involves forecasting the financial performance of your business over a specific period, typically three to five years. This includes estimating revenue streams, calculating expenses, and projecting profits and cash flow. A well-developed financial projection demonstrates your understanding of the financial aspects of your business and helps potential investors assess the potential return on investment.

Risk Analysis and Management

Every business plan should include a thorough analysis of potential risks and a plan for mitigating them. In a 3D business plan, this analysis can be presented visually, highlighting potential risks and their impact on your business. By identifying and addressing risks upfront, you can demonstrate your ability to anticipate challenges and develop strategies for managing them.

Marketing and Sales Strategy

A robust marketing and sales strategy is essential to attract customers and generate revenue. In a 3D business plan, you can showcase your marketing and sales strategies using interactive visual elements. This can include demonstrating how your product or service will be marketed, outlining your target audience, and highlighting your competitive advantage. A well-defined marketing and sales strategy helps potential investors understand how you plan to reach and engage customers.

Operational Plan

The operational plan outlines how your business will be structured and how it will operate on a day-to-day basis. This includes aspects such as your organizational structure, key personnel, production processes, and supply chain management. In a 3D business plan, you can visually represent your operational plan, showcasing the flow of activities and highlighting key operational components. A solid operational plan demonstrates your ability to execute your business model effectively.

By addressing these key components in your 3D business plan, you can provide a comprehensive and strategic overview of your venture. The visual and interactive nature of a 3D business plan allows you to effectively convey your ideas, strategies, and operational processes to potential investors and stakeholders. In the next sections, we will explore how to bring your 3D business plan to life through visualization and presentation techniques.

Visualizing Your Business Plan in 3D

In this section, we will explore the process of visualizing your business plan in 3D. By leveraging the power of 3D software, you can create a dynamic and immersive representation of your business concept.

Choosing the Right 3D Software

The first step in visualizing your business plan in 3D is to choose the right software. There are various 3D software options available, each with its own features and capabilities. Consider factors such as ease of use, compatibility with your computer system, and the specific functionalities required for your business plan. Some popular 3D software options include Blender, SketchUp, and AutoCAD.

Creating a 3D Model of Your Business Plan

Once you have selected the appropriate 3D software, it’s time to create a 3D model of your business plan. Start by importing or creating the basic elements of your business, such as buildings, products, or equipment. Then, use the software’s tools and features to design and customize your model according to your vision.

Consider incorporating realistic textures, colors, and lighting effects to enhance the visual appeal of your 3D model. Pay attention to details and accuracy to ensure that your model accurately represents your business concept.

Exploring Different Views and Angles

One advantage of 3D modeling is the ability to explore your business plan from different views and angles. Take advantage of this feature by experimenting with various camera angles to highlight different aspects of your business. This can include zooming in on specific details, showcasing the layout of your physical space, or providing a virtual tour of your business premises. By presenting multiple perspectives, you can provide a comprehensive understanding of your business plan.

Incorporating Interactive Elements

To engage your audience further, consider incorporating interactive elements into your 3D business plan. This can include adding clickable buttons or hotspots that provide additional information when clicked. You can also embed videos, animations, or interactive simulations to demonstrate how your product or service works. By making your 3D model interactive, you create an immersive experience that keeps your audience engaged and interested.

By following these steps, you can effectively visualize your business plan in 3D. The use of 3D software allows you to create a dynamic and realistic representation of your business concept, making it easier for potential investors and stakeholders to understand and connect with your vision. In the next section, we will discuss how to present your 3D business plan effectively to maximize its impact.

Presenting Your 3D Business Plan

In this section, we will explore the key strategies and techniques for effectively presenting your 3D business plan. A well-executed presentation can help you captivate your audience, convey your ideas clearly, and inspire confidence in your business concept.

Preparing for a 3D Presentation

Before diving into the presentation, it is crucial to thoroughly prepare and rehearse. Consider the following steps:

Familiarize yourself with the 3D software: Ensure that you are comfortable navigating and showcasing your 3D model within the chosen software.

Test the presentation setup: Make sure that the presentation equipment, such as projectors or screens, are functioning properly, and the 3D model is displaying correctly.

Plan your presentation flow: Outline the structure and flow of your presentation, ensuring a logical sequence that effectively highlights the key aspects of your business plan.

Practice your delivery: Rehearse your presentation to ensure a smooth and confident delivery. Pay attention to your speaking pace, clarity, and body language.

Effective Communication Techniques

To effectively communicate your 3D business plan, keep the following techniques in mind:

Use clear and concise language: Avoid jargon or technical terms that may confuse your audience. Instead, use simple and straightforward language to explain your ideas.

Tell a compelling story: Weave a narrative around your business plan, highlighting the problem your business solves, the unique value it offers, and the potential impact it can make. Engage your audience by connecting with their emotions and aspirations.

Use visuals to enhance understanding: While the 3D model itself is a powerful visual tool, supplement it with relevant images, charts, and graphs to support your key points. Visual aids can help reinforce your message and improve audience comprehension.

Practice active listening: During the presentation, encourage questions and feedback from your audience. Actively listen and respond thoughtfully, demonstrating that you value their input and are open to collaboration.

Creating a Captivating Pitch

Crafting a captivating pitch is crucial in capturing the attention and interest of your audience. Consider the following tips:

Start with a strong hook: Begin your presentation with a compelling opening statement or a thought-provoking question that grabs the audience’s attention from the start.

Highlight the unique value proposition: Clearly articulate the unique aspects of your business that set it apart from competitors. Explain how your product or service solves a problem or fulfills a need in a way that others cannot.

Showcase the potential return on investment: Investors are interested in the financial viability of your business. Present solid data and projections that demonstrate the potential for revenue generation, profitability, and return on investment.

Emphasize the market opportunity: Illustrate the size and growth potential of your target market. Show that there is a significant market demand for your product or service and explain how you plan to capture a substantial share of that market.

Handling Questions and Feedback

During the presentation, be prepared to handle questions and feedback effectively. Respond to inquiries confidently, providing concise and well-thought-out answers. If you encounter a question you don’t have an immediate answer to, acknowledge it and offer to follow up with additional information later. Be open to constructive feedback and demonstrate your willingness to consider different perspectives.

By following these presentation strategies and techniques, you can confidently present your 3D business plan and leave a lasting impression on your audience. In the next section, we will explore real-life case studies and examples of successful 3D business plans to further inspire and guide you.

Case Studies and Examples of Successful 3D Business Plans

In this section, we will examine real-life case studies and examples of successful 3D business plans. By exploring these examples, you can gain valuable insights and inspiration for your own 3D business plan.

Case Study 1: XYZ Architecture Firm

XYZ Architecture Firm utilized a 3D business plan to showcase their innovative approach to building design. By creating a 3D model of their architectural projects, they were able to provide clients with a virtual tour of the proposed structures. This immersive experience helped clients visualize the end result, leading to increased client satisfaction and higher conversion rates. The 3D business plan also allowed XYZ Architecture Firm to differentiate themselves from competitors and secure larger projects by demonstrating their ability to deliver unique and visually stunning designs.

Case Study 2: ABC Tech Startup

ABC Tech Startup utilized a 3D business plan to attract investors and secure funding for their innovative software product. By presenting a 3D model of their software interface, they were able to effectively communicate the user experience and highlight the product’s features and functionalities. The interactive elements within the 3D business plan allowed potential investors to explore the product firsthand, leading to increased investor interest and a successful funding round. The visual and interactive nature of the 3D business plan helped ABC Tech Startup stand out in a competitive market and position themselves as a leader in their industry.

Case Study 3: LMN Manufacturing Company

LMN Manufacturing Company leveraged a 3D business plan to showcase their manufacturing processes and capabilities. By creating a 3D model of their production line, they were able to demonstrate the efficiency and quality of their operations. The 3D business plan allowed potential clients to see how their products would be manufactured and gain confidence in LMN Manufacturing Company’s ability to meet their specifications and requirements. The visual representation of the manufacturing processes in the 3D business plan helped LMN Manufacturing Company secure new contracts and expand their client base.

These case studies highlight the diverse range of industries and businesses that can benefit from a 3D business plan. Whether you are in architecture, technology, manufacturing, or any other industry, a well-executed 3D business plan can help you communicate your ideas, attract investors, and achieve your business goals.

By studying these successful examples and adapting their strategies to your own business, you can create a compelling and visually stunning 3D business plan that sets you apart from the competition. In the next section, we will provide a summary and conclusion to wrap up this comprehensive guide on creating a 3D business plan.

How To Create 3D Printing Service Business Plan: Checklist

By henry sheykin, resources on 3d printing service.

• Financial Model
• Business Plan
• Value Proposition
• One-Page Business Plan
• SWOT Analysis
• Business Model
• Marketing Plan
• Bundle Business Plan & Fin Model

Welcome to our blog post on how to write a business plan for a 3D printing service in 9 steps! The 3D printing industry has been experiencing tremendous growth in recent years, with a CAGR of 24.14% expected between 2021 and 2026. This presents a unique opportunity for entrepreneurs looking to tap into the potential of this technology and offer valuable solutions to businesses in need of on-demand printing services.

Before diving into the steps of creating a business plan, it's crucial to understand the market you'll be serving. Identifying your target market and conducting thorough market research are essential for success. Identify the specific industries and businesses that would benefit most from your 3D printing services, such as the manufacturing and technology sectors.

Once you have a clear understanding of your target market, it's time to assess the competition. Analyze what other 3D printing services are offering and identify gaps in the market that you can fill with your unique selling proposition. Differentiating yourself from the competition will be key to attracting customers and standing out in a crowded industry.

Determining a pricing strategy that strikes a balance between being profitable and competitive is essential. Consider factors such as material costs, operational expenses, and desired profit margins. An effective pricing strategy will help you position your business as the go-to option for cost-effective, high-quality 3D printing services.

Outline your revenue streams, considering not only the printing services themselves but any additional value-added services you can offer. Think about providing design expertise and personalized customer support to ensure a seamless integration of 3D printing technology into your clients' production processes.

Identify the necessary resources and equipment required to run your 3D printing service efficiently. Consider the costs of acquiring and maintaining printers, software, and other tools necessary for delivering high-quality prints. Additionally, explore partnerships with suppliers to ensure a consistent supply of quality materials.

Next, develop a marketing and promotional strategy to reach your target audience effectively. Utilize online marketing channels, such as social media and search engine optimization, to raise awareness of your services. Consider attending trade shows and industry events to showcase your capabilities and establish connections.

Finally, create a comprehensive financial plan that outlines your projected revenue, expenses, and profitability over a set period. This will be crucial for attracting potential investors and securing any necessary funding to launch or scale your 3D printing service.

By following these 9 steps, you'll be well on your way to developing a solid business plan for your 3D printing service. Stay tuned for our upcoming blog posts, where we'll dive deeper into each step to help guide you through the process of launching and growing a successful venture in this exciting industry.

Identify Target Market

In order to create a successful business plan for your 3D printing service, it is crucial to identify your target market - the specific group of customers you will be serving. Defining your target market helps you tailor your business strategies and offerings to meet their specific needs and preferences.

When identifying your target market, consider factors such as the industries you will be serving, the size of businesses you will primarily cater to, and the geographic location of your target customers. Conducting thorough market research will help you gain a deeper understanding of the key characteristics and demands of your potential customers.

Tips for identifying your target market:

• Analyze your competitors' customer base to identify overlaps or potential gaps in the market.
• Survey potential customers or conduct focus groups to gather insights on their preferences and pain points.
• Consider demographic factors such as age, gender, and income level that may influence your target market.
• Take into account the specific needs and challenges of small and medium-sized businesses within the manufacturing and technology industry.
• Look for opportunities to serve niche markets or provide specialized services based on unique customer requirements.

By clearly defining your target market, you can establish more effective marketing and communication strategies, develop tailored products and services, and better satisfy the needs of your customers. This will ultimately contribute to the success and growth of your 3D printing service.

Conduct Market Research

Market research is a crucial step in creating a successful business plan for a 3D printing service. It allows you to gather valuable insights and data about your target market, customer preferences, industry trends, and competitive landscape. Here are some important aspects to consider during the market research process:

• Identify your target customers: Start by defining your target market, which includes small and medium-sized businesses within the manufacturing and technology industry. Understand their specific needs, pain points, and challenges that can be solved through your 3D printing service.
• Analyze industry trends: Stay up-to-date with the latest industry trends in the 3D printing market. This includes advancements in technology, emerging applications, regulatory changes, and market demand. This knowledge will help you position your service effectively and anticipate future opportunities.
• Assess market size and growth potential: Determine the size of your target market and its growth potential. This information is critical for estimating the demand for your service and projecting future revenue. Look for industry reports, market studies, and statistical data to get an accurate understanding of the market dynamics.
• Study your competitors: Analyze your direct and indirect competitors offering similar 3D printing services. Identify their strengths, weaknesses, pricing strategies, customer base, and market positioning. This analysis will help you differentiate your business and create a unique selling proposition.
• Understand customer preferences: Gather insights into customer preferences and expectations regarding 3D printing services. This includes factors such as quality, speed, customization options, pricing, and customer support. Conduct surveys, interviews, or focus groups to gain direct feedback from potential customers.
• Utilize online resources such as industry forums, blogs, and social media groups to engage with professionals in the 3D printing industry. This can provide valuable insights and networking opportunities.
• Consider partnering with local manufacturing or technology associations to gain access to their members and industry events. This can help you establish connections and gather market intelligence.
• Keep an eye on emerging technologies and applications that may disrupt or enhance the 3D printing market. This will enable you to adapt and evolve your service offerings accordingly.

Assess Competition

When starting a 3D printing service, it is crucial to assess the competition in the market. This step will help you gain insights into the existing players in the industry, their strengths, weaknesses, and overall market dynamics. Here are some important factors to consider when assessing the competition:

• Identify key competitors: Research and identify the main competitors in your target market. Look for companies that offer similar 3D printing services or solutions to the same customer base.
• Analyze their offerings: Study their product or service offerings in detail. Understand what sets them apart from others and how they position themselves in the market. Identify the strengths and weaknesses of their offerings.
• Examine pricing strategies: Analyze the pricing strategies of your competitors. Evaluate their pricing models, such as pricing per hour, per project, or per material used. This will help you determine a competitive pricing strategy for your own 3D printing service.
• Assess customer experience: Look for customer reviews, testimonials, and feedback about your competitors' services. Pay attention to what customers appreciate and what pain points they have identified. This will give you valuable insights to improve your own customer experience.
• Study marketing and promotional strategies: Analyze how your competitors market and promote their 3D printing services. Look for their online presence, social media activities, advertising campaigns, and partnerships. This understanding will help you develop effective marketing strategies for your own business.
• Regularly monitor your competitors to stay updated on their new offerings and strategies.
• Attend industry trade shows and exhibitions to observe and analyze competitor presence and product showcases.
• Consider offering unique value propositions that differentiate your 3D printing service from the competition.

Define Unique Selling Proposition

In order to stand out from your competitors and attract customers, it is essential to define your unique selling proposition (USP). This is what sets your 3D printing service apart from others in the market and gives potential customers a reason to choose your business over others.

Your unique selling proposition should emphasize the key benefits and advantages that your service offers. Consider what makes your 3D printing service different, such as your expertise, quality, speed, customer service, or pricing.

• Identify your target market's pain points and tailor your unique selling proposition to address those specific needs.
• Highlight any certifications, awards, or partnerships you have that validate your expertise and quality.
• Emphasize any innovations or advancements in technology that make your 3D printing service stand out.
• Showcase testimonials or case studies from satisfied customers to demonstrate the value and benefits of your service.

Once you have defined your unique selling proposition, integrate it into your marketing materials, website, and communication with potential customers. Continuously evaluate and refine your USP to adapt to changing market trends and customer demands. By clearly defining your unique selling proposition, you can effectively differentiate your 3D printing service and attract customers in the competitive market.

Determine Pricing Strategy

Setting the right pricing strategy for your 3D printing service is essential to attract customers while ensuring profitability. Here are some important considerations:

• Understand costs: Begin by calculating all the costs involved in running your 3D printing service, including equipment maintenance, materials, labor, and overhead expenses. This will help you determine a minimum price that covers your costs.
• Competitive analysis: Research the pricing models of your competitors to gain insight into industry standards. Consider factors such as their quality of service, turnaround time, and additional value-added features they offer.
• Value-based pricing: Assess the unique value proposition of your 3D printing service and determine how it differentiates from competitors. Use this as a basis to set your pricing. Consider the convenience, expertise, and customer support you provide.
• Tiered pricing: Consider offering different pricing tiers based on factors such as turnaround time, complexity of designs, or additional services. This allows you to cater to a wider range of customer needs while maximizing revenue.
• Consider discounts or promotions: Offering promotional discounts or bundled deals can help attract new customers or incentivize repeat business. Be mindful, however, of the impact on your profitability.
• Regularly review and adjust your pricing strategy based on market dynamics and changes in costs.
• Consider offering volume discounts to encourage customers to order larger quantities.
• Offer a clear pricing structure on your website or marketing materials to facilitate transparency and ease of decision-making for potential customers.

By carefully considering these factors, you can develop a pricing strategy that reflects the value of your 3D printing service while remaining competitive in the market.

Outline Revenue Streams

When creating a business plan for your 3D printing service, it's crucial to outline your revenue streams in order to understand how your business will generate income. This step is essential for predicting your financial success and ensuring a sustainable business model. Here are some important factors to consider when outlining your revenue streams:

• Service-based revenue: One of the main revenue streams for your 3D printing service will come from the services you provide to your customers. This can include charges for the actual printing jobs, design consultations, maintenance and repairs, and any additional support services offered.
• Product-based revenue: Apart from providing services, you may also consider generating revenue by selling related products. This could include offering filament, printing materials, 3D scanning tools, or even your own customized 3D printed products.
• Subscription or membership fees: If you plan on offering additional perks or benefits, you might consider implementing a subscription or membership fee structure. This can provide recurring revenue and build a loyal customer base.
• Partnerships or collaborations: Exploring potential partnerships with manufacturers, designers, or other businesses in the industry can be a lucrative revenue stream. By offering your expertise and services as part of a larger package, you can increase your market reach and potentially earn a percentage of the total project revenue.

Tips for outlining your revenue streams:

• Identify the most profitable services or products to prioritize.
• Consider offering package deals or discounts to attract customers and encourage repeat business.
• Regularly review and evaluate your revenue streams to identify opportunities for growth and improvement.
• Stay updated with the latest industry trends and technology advancements to ensure your revenue streams remain relevant and competitive.

Remember, outlining your revenue streams is not a one-time task. As your 3D printing service evolves and adapts to market demands, you may need to revise and modify your revenue strategies accordingly. With a well-defined revenue stream, you will have a clear idea of how your business will generate income and pave the way for financial success.

Identify Necessary Resources And Equipment

When starting a 3D printing service, it is crucial to accurately identify the necessary resources and equipment required to meet the demands of your target market. This step is essential to ensure smooth and efficient operations while delivering high-quality printing solutions. Here are some key considerations:

• 3D printers: Determine the number and types of printers you will need based on the volume and complexity of printing jobs anticipated. Research different models and brands to choose the ones that best align with your business needs and budget.
• Materials: Select a range of materials compatible with your chosen 3D printers to offer a variety of printing options to your customers. Consider materials such as ABS, PLA, PETG, and nylon, among others, depending on the requirements of the target market.
• Software: Invest in 3D modeling and slicing software to facilitate the design process and optimize printing parameters for different materials. Ensure that the chosen software is user-friendly and compatible with your 3D printers.
• Post-processing tools: Acquire essential post-processing equipment like sanding tools, curing stations, and cleaning supplies to ensure the final products meet the desired quality standards.
• Quality control measures: Implement a rigorous quality control process by investing in inspection tools, measuring instruments, and testing equipment to detect and rectify any printing defects or errors.
• Workplace setup: Equip your workspace with adequate storage, workbenches, shelves, and organization systems to maintain a clean and efficient production environment. Consider factors such as ventilation and safety measures to ensure a safe working environment.

Additional Tips:

• Regularly research and stay updated with the latest advancements in 3D printing technology and equipment to ensure your business remains competitive in the market.
• Consider leasing or renting equipment initially to minimize upfront costs and allow flexibility for upgrades as your business grows.
• Establish relationships with suppliers to ensure a steady supply of materials and spare parts to avoid any operational disruptions.
• Set aside a budget for maintenance and repairs to address any unexpected equipment breakdowns promptly.

By thoroughly identifying and acquiring the necessary resources and equipment, you can ensure that your 3D printing service operates efficiently and delivers high-quality printing solutions to meet the needs of your target market.

Develop Marketing And Promotional Strategies

Once you have identified your target market and conducted market research, it is crucial to develop effective marketing and promotional strategies to ensure the success of your 3D printing service. These strategies will help you build brand awareness, attract potential customers, and establish a strong presence in the competitive market.

To start, consider the following key steps:

• Define Your Brand Identity: Clearly articulate your brand identity, including your mission, values, and unique selling proposition. This will help differentiate your 3D printing service from competitors and attract customers who align with your brand values.
• Create a Compelling Website: Develop a professional and user-friendly website that showcases your services, expertise, and portfolio. Ensure that it is optimized for search engines to improve your online visibility.
• Utilize Social Media: Leverage popular social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Twitter to connect with your target audience and promote your 3D printing service. Engaging content, including informative posts, client success stories, and industry insights, can help build credibility and attract potential customers.
• Networking and Partnerships: Attend industry conferences, trade shows, and events to establish connections and partnerships with potential clients and collaborators. Networking can be an effective way to generate leads and build relationships within your industry.
• Offer special promotions or discounts to incentivize new customers to try your services.
• Collaborate with influencers or industry experts to raise brand awareness and reach a wider audience.
• Utilize targeted advertising campaigns on platforms such as Google AdWords or Facebook Ads to reach potential customers based on their demographics, interests, and search behavior.

Remember, a well-defined marketing and promotional strategy helps you effectively communicate your services, build trust with your target market, and ultimately drive business growth. Regularly evaluate the performance of your strategies and make necessary adjustments to ensure maximum impact.

Create A Comprehensive Financial Plan

Creating a comprehensive financial plan is crucial for the success of your 3D printing service. It will help you understand the financial feasibility of your business, set realistic goals, and make informed decisions about your future operations.

Start by outlining your startup costs and ongoing expenses. This includes everything from purchasing or leasing the necessary equipment to renting a workspace, hiring employees, and maintaining supplies. Be as detailed as possible to ensure nothing is overlooked.

Next, estimate your revenue projections based on your target market and pricing strategy. Consider factors such as market demand, competition, and the potential growth of the 3D printing industry. A thorough analysis will provide you with realistic expectations and help you set achievable goals.

It is also important to identify your sources of funding . Determine whether you will finance the business with your own savings, seek investors, or apply for loans. Explore all available options and weigh the benefits and risks associated with each.

In addition to your startup costs and revenue projections, include a detailed cash flow statement in your financial plan. This will help you understand the timing of your cash inflows and outflows, ensuring you have enough working capital to cover your expenses and maintain a positive cash flow.

Tips for Creating a Comprehensive Financial Plan:

• Consult with a financial advisor or accountant to ensure accuracy and reliability.
• Consider different financial scenarios and their potential impact on your business.
• Regularly review and update your financial plan to reflect changes in the market or your business operations.
• Track your actual financial performance against your projected figures to identify areas that may require adjustments.

In conclusion, a well-developed financial plan is essential for the success of your 3D printing service. It provides a roadmap for managing your financial resources, setting goals, and making informed decisions. Take the time to carefully analyze your costs, revenue projections, and cash flow to ensure the financial stability and growth of your business.

In conclusion, creating a successful business plan for a 3D printing service involves various critical steps. By identifying the target market and conducting thorough market research, you can understand the needs and preferences of your potential customers. Assessing the competition will help you differentiate your services and define a unique selling proposition.

Additionally, determining a pricing strategy and outlining revenue streams will guide your financial planning and profitability. Identifying the necessary resources and equipment, along with developing effective marketing and promotional strategies, will ensure the successful launch and growth of your 3D printing service.

Lastly, creating a comprehensive financial plan is vital for long-term sustainability and scalability. By following these 9 steps and using the checklist provided, you can confidently write a business plan that will set you on the path to success in the exciting world of 3D printing services.

3D Printing Service Financial Model

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How to Write a Business Plan Step-By-Step [Free Business Plan Template]

Author: Tania Griffis

May 20, 2024 19 Comments

Learning how to write a business plan is essential for any new business idea. Unfortunately, we’re not all taught this skill in school.

Writing a strong business plan is an art. It involves accurately communicating one’s full potential and market knowledge in a single document. 

Luckily, you don’t need to reinvent the wheel.

I’ve created a concise template for you to write the ultimate business plan, no matter your industry experience. 

Whether you’ve been workshopping startups for decades or starting your first small business, we all start from the same place. 

A killer business plan!

Ready to skip to the good stuff? Download my  free business plan template  and start planning your success. Still, I highly recommend you read on for detailed advice every step of the way. 

Why Write a Business Plan?

I get it; you want to hit the ground running. But a little planning never hurt anyone. In fact, a well-made business plan is one of the key elements in achieving career success. 

A detailed plan can help you narrow in on company objectives, guide business decisions, and determine whether your business is feasible. 

Learning how to write a business plan also has monetary benefits, helping you gain funding, potential investors, loans, and grants. 

A business plan is an excellent tool to refer back to, including growth projections, performance benchmarks, and potential weaknesses in your strategy. 

The best part about crafting a business plan is that it will grow with you, serving as a living resource of all you have and hope to accomplish.

Elements of a Great Business Plan

Beyond formatting standards, there are specific elements that make for a standout business plan:

• Write in concise, easy-to-understand language, avoiding unnecessary fluff.
• Include all relevant documents, demonstrating attention to detail and a well-thought-out business model.
• Demonstrate apparent market knowledge through research and projections.
• Include a mission statement and unique value proposition that makes your business a market standout.

How to Write a Business Plan: 11 Steps to Success

Ready to get writing? Entrepreneurs can use this simple, 11-step process to make their dream business a reality. 

Note that this business plan format is meant for personal planning. It will need some formatting changes before it’s sent to potential investors (more on that later!). 

1. Establish Your Monthly Income Goal

First up, establish your monthly income goal. 

It may sound simple enough, but this goal will inform almost every decision you make in the future.

This short-term goal will also give you and potential investors a peak into long-term success. 

2. Describe Your Business Vision

Next, write a short section describing your business vision. This is also known as a UVP or unique value proposition.

• This is the “what” portion of your proposal. What are the basics of your business? What are you selling? What do you hope to accomplish? 
• This may also include a mission statement, the “why” in your business that makes it stand out from the competition. 

If you’re struggling to land on the right business for you, check out our posts on:

• 40 Small Business Ideas You Can Do From Home
• 24 Creative Business Ideas for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
• 17 Home Businesses You Can Start With No Money

3. Name Your Business

This will either be the easiest or the most challenging step in writing a business plan. First impressions are everything. And your business name will be your forever first impression!

• Choose a business name that best represents you and your long-term business goals. 
• Check to see if the domain is available and if there are any existing trademarks. 
• File for a DBA (Doing Business As) if you’re not using your name.

Check out this article for tips on naming your business . 

4. Establish a Legal Structure

Next, outline your business structure, both in the short and long term. Will you run your business as a:

• Sole proprietorship:  Simplest structure with one individual acting as the business
• Partnership:  Operated by two or more people with shared business responsibilities 
• LLC:  Known as a “limited liability company because members are protected from personal liabilities when it comes to the business
• Corporation:  Separate from individual members, corporations are legal entities with higher taxation and regulations but high protection of personal assets

5. Look at Certifications 

All industries require varying levels of qualification to run a business. Describe any needed:

• Permits 
• And all other certifications!

6. Consider Payment Methods

Gone are the days of cash payments. In the digital age, almost all transactions are digital.

That said, there are still plenty of payment methods to choose from. Consider one or a combination of:

• Physical payments, cash, or card
• Secure online transactions
• PayPal or other payment app
• Third-party like Etsy or Shopify

7. Product Expenses and Tracking

Before starting a new business, having an easy, thorough way to track payments is going to save you a lot of time during tax season. It’s also a necessary step in tracking and forecasting financial plans. 

In this stage of “how to write a business plan,” consider:

• How you’ll keep track of your bookkeeping
• The price of your products/services

8. Identify Necessary Permits

Depending on your business structure and industry, you may need any combination of:

• Licenses to conduct your business

Identify any necessary permits and show proof of obtaining them in your formal business plan. 

9. Decide if You Need a Business Phone or Address

Business numbers or PO boxes are necessities for some businesses. 

For example, PO boxes are used for product returns. This offers business members a level of privacy and security that wouldn’t be provided if they used their home addresses. 

PO boxes are also highly reliable and regulated, making them frequently more efficient than a physical address. 

Business phone numbers offer a similar level of privacy, allowing customers to seek direct support during business hours. 

A business number allows for accessibility, as some customers aren’t able to access online support. 

10. Consider Marketing Methods

New business owners should consider a marketing plan straight from the jump. Marketing is at the core of making any new company a success. 

Develop a clear marketing strategy, including:

• Industry trends + market analysis
• Target market + customer segments
• Industry competitors + positioning
• Advertising methods (social media, email marketing , paid advertisements, cold calling)
• Social media presence + digital marketing strategy 
• Marketing goals + key performance indicators 

11. Decide on Your Platform

Finally, decide which platform will be the bread and butter of your business. 

While you may have diverse revenues from a single business venture, you’ll need to choose one platform to run your primary website. 

Popular website options include:

• WordPress (blogging)
• Patreon (membership)
• Podia (blogging, membership, and selling courses)
• Shopify (e-commerce)
• Wix (blogging and personal website)

Each platform offers different customization capabilities and levels of online support. Some are incredibly user-friendly, while others require basic coding knowledge. 

Choose the platform that will best suit your capabilities and customization needs. 

How to Format a Formal Business Plan

While you can download my  free business plan template  to start, this is meant for personal use.

When sending a business plan to potential investors, the text needs to be a bit more formal. Here’s how to do it:

• Create a document filled with the imperative information above. 
• Frame all content as either statements or projections. 
• Omit or alter content written for personal use. 

Format Standards 

Traditional business plans all follow a strict formula. Luckily, you’ve already done all the leg work above!

Simply use your workshopped content to include the following:

• Cover page:  A minimalist cover page that represents your business, including your name, business name, proposed logo, and contact information
• Table of contents:  List all sections and included documents as a navigation aid
• Executive summary:  This is a concise, complete overview of your business plan, including key elements of opportunity and strategy
• Company description:  Describe the “what” and “why” of your business model
• Market analysis:  Share in-depth marketing analysis, including targets, trends, and growth opportunities 
• Business structure:  Ownership and legal structures
• Products/services offered:  Sharing your product and how it fills a gap in the market
• Marketing strategy:  Full strategy, including pricing, advertisement methods, and budget
• Funding request:  Amount requested, type of funding (equity or debt), and future financial plans
• Financial projections:  Include monetary forecasts such as balance sheets, income statements, cash flow statements, and expenditure budgets for the next five years. 
• Appendix:  All other necessary documents, such as legal agreements, references from industry experts, and marketing data research

More on How to Write a Business Plan

Writing a business plan doesn’t need to be daunting; it’s an opportunity to explore the possibilities of your future business. 

When tackling your business plan, follow these simple steps rather than drowning in industry jargon. 

Download my  free business plan template  to get started. And if you’re looking for more resources, check out all of our posts on  how to start a business .

What questions or suggestions do you have for writing a business plan? We would love to hear from you!

Free Business Plan Template

Would you like to start a home-based business, but you're not sure where to start?

Grab our FREE Simplified Business Plan Template , which will walk you through the questions and steps you need to take to get your business off the ground!

About the Author

Tania Griffis

Tania Griffis is a blogger and business owner who has a background in human resources, hiring, and recruiting. She's been featured on CNN and dozens of other blogs and online publications, putting her journalism degree to good use. Tania loves using a combination of creativity and business savvy to help business owners succeed through her services offered at, The Creative Wheelhouse . She is also a mama to a beautiful baby girl who keeps Tania and her husband on their toes.

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Reader Interactions

19 comments.

June 22, 2023 at 8:20 pm

Thanks for your post I have started in online wig business on hopes of making wearable products for Cancer patients mam or female but in reading your words my hopes is to open a store front so to cater one on one service is it best for me to apply for my LLC or sole proprietor??

June 26, 2023 at 6:57 am

Hi Cynthia,

It depends. They are pros and cons with each arrangement. Talking to a CPA or an lawyer can help you determine which structure is right for your situation.

All the best!

August 9, 2022 at 5:52 pm

I believe this information will help me because I’m scared to write a business plan and it’s like you said where to start first.

May 20, 2024 at 7:33 am

All the best with your business, Irene!

February 28, 2019 at 10:04 am

Hi, my name is Sheron.

I want you to help me on to draft a business plan.

March 1, 2019 at 8:01 am

If you need further assistance in writing your business, you can use this free business plan template: https://the-work-at-home-woman-llc.ck.page/e471670755

Good luck and keep me posted on your journey!

April 18, 2018 at 10:10 pm

This was a really good read. I was trying to take a few steps in creating a business plan for a golfing company I’ m planning to start with my son.

April 19, 2018 at 7:08 am

Glad you enjoyed the tips, Danny!

April 1, 2023 at 2:12 pm

Helpful. It’s good I have somewhere to start from

April 1, 2023 at 4:46 pm

Glad you enjoyed the article!

February 7, 2018 at 3:23 am

Hi my name is Billy, I understand all sections of a business plan, however I’m struggling with what I am planning on starting. I have the vision the mission everything, I’m Trying to start a Non Profit, however the Financial Section is hard to project when I cant put an exact Income on Cash flow through Fundraising, or hopeful Grants. Was wondering if anyone here has some advice on this subject. I have everything else pretty much figured

February 7, 2018 at 12:33 pm

Have you connected with a mentor on SCORE?

SCORE offers free mentorship and guidance — they are an excellent organization and will be able to point you in the right direction with your non-profit. https://www.score.org

February 8, 2017 at 2:25 pm

Creating a business plan is one of the most overlooked things when working at home. Tho many businesses do it in the offline world too. But it is easy to get sidetracked or to tell yourself what you want in your business and call it a day.

I struggled with business plans in the past and without them you really tend to slack off. Unfortunately it is something that people don’t believe until it happens too. I remember thinking to myself that I wanted a lot of traffic to my blog, had a vague idea of what I wanted to do with it and set out thinking I was going to be rich. Yeah, that didn’t work out as planned (mainly because I had no plan.)

I still am not the best planner, but I have learned through my mistakes. Great article and I cannot think of anything to add.

Glad you enjoyed the article, Dawn!

February 3, 2017 at 9:55 am

Indeed a Great Post with valuable tips. A business plan is always important, doesn’t matter in which field we are working in, we should always have a proper plan before starting our business, either offline or online, but later on, it also becomes important to refine that plan according to the results we are getting.

So regarding business plan that, you article has some great tips. It will help many including me, as I am looking to start a new online business. Hope I will succeed.

February 6, 2017 at 8:15 am

Glad you enjoyed Dawn’s post, Jenny.

May 24, 2011 at 3:09 am

Tim Berry suggested that a business plan is organic in that it should grown as your business grows.

It’s a good way of looking at it as you need to refine things as you go along and… remember that you can CHANGE the business plan.

It’s not a sacred document.

July 15, 2021 at 5:07 am

A very helpful tool in business plan writing. Kudos!

July 16, 2021 at 8:29 am

Glad you enjoyed the tips!

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