Starting today, we are accepting applications to the Protolabs Network 3D Printing Student Grant 2019. We’re looking for inventors, entrepreneurs and creative talents in STEM subjects that push the boundaries of 3D printing.
Since last year, we've expanded the fields that the Student Grant is offered to from three to five: Product Design, Robotics, Sustainability, Transportation and Healthcare. We are looking for students and recent graduates who can show us how they used 3D printing to solve real-life problems in their respective fields.
The awardees of the grant in each of the five categories will receive $1000 in funding for their project. Finalists of each category will receive a copy of The 3D Printing Handbook to help them with their next big idea.
More importantly, this year Protolabs Network will support the winners and finalists who are interested in turning their project into a product by showcasing their work to a global audience and by providing technical support and advice on how to go from prototyping to production.
For a project to be eligible, a physical prototype or product must be presented. Whole or part of the design must be fabricated through 3D printing. Components of the final assembly can be also manufactured through other (preferably digital) technologies, such as CNC machining.
The past two editions of the Protolabs Network Student Grant had more than 1000 applicants, from 400 universities, showcasing an array of innovative and unique applications of 3D printing. Many entries made waves in their respective field, inspiring students and professionals alike. Protolabs Network student grant entries were covered by media in countries across the world and in publications ranging from tech to sustainability to design.
Filemon Schoffer, co-founder and CMO of Protolabs Network, comments on the importance of innovation and entrepreneurship in STEM education and the response to the previous editions of the Student Grant:
“The reason we launched the 3D Printing Student Grant was to support the next generation of professionals who are pushing the boundaries of the technology. The quality of projects we received in past years was above and beyond anything we could ever expect. We are excited to support the efforts of ambitious students and innovators who want to turn their idea into a product. We can't wait to see what the next generation of designers and engineers are working on.”
For more inspiration on student projects, follow us on Instagram. Throughout March, April, May, and June we’ll be showcasing the best submissions.
Students can apply and learn more about the rules and eligibility criteria on this page; Protolabs Network Student Grant 2019. Applications close on Sunday, June 30th and awardees will be announced on Wednesday, July 17th.
