“The 3D printing industry itself is at an inflection point shifting the user base beyond the innovating group of designers only. The long term impact of industry game changers is very often underestimated and no one really knows how fast things will happen, but it is happening now,” says Galema.
Venture capital was further infused by Hewlett Packard Ventures and Presidio Ventures, the investment arm of the Tokyo-based Sumitomo Corporation, as well as current investors:
- Andreesen Horowitz
- Union Square Ventures
- Index Ventures
- Lux Capital
“Shapeways is redefining how products are being made,” says Peter Weijmarshausen, CEO and Co-Founder of Shapeways. “The partners in this funding round share our vision that manufacturing is moving from analog to digital and as a result it will disrupt product creation, and make it more accessible to everyone.”
“Hewlett Packard Ventures is excited to help Shapeways accelerate their momentum and scale their business around the world,” said Lak Ananth, Managing Director, Hewlett Packard Ventures. “As a strategic partner, we will build upon our existing relationship with Shapeways to help make the vision and promise of 3D printing and additive manufacturing a reality.”
Not only is INKEF staying with their Dutch roots, they are investing in a popular, growing company that has constant and forward movement within the 3D printing movement. Certainly relevant, and a mover and shaker as far as 3D printing service bureaus go, the deal appears to be a win for all involved.
“Considering the Dutch roots of the company, as a Netherlands based investor we are especially delighted to support Shapeways in this next stage of development,” Galema adds.
Now headquartered in Manhattan, Shapeways also has factories and offices in Eindhoven, Long Island City, and Seattle. The company was founded in 2008 and has been responsible for printing millions of 3D models worldwide.
Discuss your thoughts on this latest 3D printing company receiving an infusion of venture capital in the Shapeways Receives $30 Million in Venture Capital forum thread over at 3DPB.com.