PostNet Introduces 3D Printing for Small Businesses, Entrepreneurs

3-D printing is gaining momentum.  Now users can create tangible items on 3D printers—iPhone (News - Alert) case, toys, jewelry to nearly anything. 3D printing is getting affordable for individuals - engineers, innovators, designers, artists, doctors - anyone who wants to get a new design out, 3D printing is the way to do it.

 PostNet, the nation's first Neighborhood Business Center, has announced to offer 3D printing services in its new Minneapolis center, which opens April 9, as part of a pilot program to evaluate the emerging technology's applications for small businesses and entrepreneurs.

Brian Spindel, co-founder of PostNet said in a statement, "For more than 20 years, PostNet has continuously evolved as new technology emerged so we could better serve our customers and power small businesses. We are eager to evaluate 3D printing at our new Minneapolis center to understand how the technology can boost the bottom line of not only our franchise partners, but also small businesses across the country."

Minneapolis resident and franchise owner Dave Thorsen has spearheaded the initiative to bring 3D printing to PostNet.

At the new Minneapolis PostNet center, Thorsen intends to offer entrepreneurs, small business owners, manufacturers, designers, and university students the ability to print prototypes quickly and inexpensively. Targeted initial applications include designing new technology, developing working prototypes, building architectural models, creating customized products, medical devices and more.

"I am thrilled to offer convenient access to this incredible technology that represents the future of prototype development and manufacturing, and to help explore this revolutionary technology's potential for PostNet," said Thorsen.

PostNet Neighborhood Business Centers serves as the marketing arm of local companies with four to 40 employees.  PostNet offers digital printing, graphic design, shipping services, direct mail campaigns, Web services, email marketing, mobile payment processing solutions at select locations, and more.