Relentless The Most Successful 3D Printing Startup In The US | Max Lobovsky, Formlabs
Nov 8, 2025
Max Lobovsky, cofounder and CEO of Formlabs, shares insights on leading a top 3D printing startup. He discusses the rollercoaster ride of their successful Kickstarter campaign and the challenges of early manufacturing. Max opens up about the existential patent lawsuit and the strategic decisions that shaped Formlabs, including product-market tradeoffs and a focus on problem-solving over technical vanity. He also delves into team dynamics, hiring smart individuals, and building supplier relationships, reflecting on the evolving landscape of global manufacturing.
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The Core Promise Of 3D Printing
- The dream of 3D printing is turning digital models into physical objects quickly and cheaply.
- Max says the real value is streamlining the painful process from idea to real thing.
Kickstarter Launch Surpassed Expectations
- Formlabs launched the Form 1 on Kickstarter and raised far more than expected, hitting about $3M.
- The surge forced rapid changes to production plans and intense celebration followed by stress.
Early Patent Lawsuit Threatened Existence
- Weeks after the Kickstarter, Formlabs was sued by the largest 3D printing company over patents.
- Max describes it as an existential threat they managed to slow-roll and settle reasonably later.
