Autodesk’s Ember 3D printer is only the tip of the company’s push into the 3D printing sphere
Autodesk has announced that it intends to invest up to $100 million in 3D printing companies over the next few years, including entrepreneurs, startups and researchers who push the boundaries of 3D printing technology.
The Spark Investment Fund, which will be operated within Autodesk, with companies and individuals developing groundbreaking hardware, software, materials, marketplaces and maker spaces encouraged to apply to participate.
Earlier this year, Autodesk announced Spark, an open and free software platform for 3D printing that will connect digital information to 3D printers in a new way.
Autodesk Spark has already been a part of projects such as the Strati 3D printed car by Local Motors
Spark will connect to any hardware and be materials agnostic, and the company invites the entire 3D printing community to collaborate, build and improve the platform, its associated Ember 3D printer and materials.
“The days of taking a closed, top-down approach to innovating for additive manufacturing are behind us. Numerous industries recognize the value of tapping into entrepreneurs or startups with better ideas and approaches, and 3D printing is no exception,” said Samir Hanna, vice president and general manager, Consumer Products and 3D Printing, at Autodesk.
“The Spark Investment Fund will empower innovators to improve 3D printing, and to help us unlock the tremendous promise of this technology.”
At this week’s launch of HP’s new 3D printing technology, Autodesk CEO Carl Bass was one of the key voices on stage advocating the rise of new 3D printing technology, something we’re eager to see more of.
To learn more about the Spark Investment Fund or to apply to become a recipient, click here.
