English
Carlsquare advised MyMiniFactory (MMF), the world’s leading curated 3D printing platform, on its acquisition of Thingiverse, the world’s largest repository of free 3D-printable designs. Thingiverse was acquired from Netherlands-based 3D printer manufacturer UltiMaker, in which Stratasys holds a minority stake.
Advising on this landmark deal, that unites over 8 million Thingiverse users with MyMiniFactory, cements Carlsquare’s experience in the consumer-led 3D printing market.
Founded in 2012 and based in London, MyMiniFactory hosts more than 2 million registered users and has distributed over USD 100 million in creator earnings through innovative licensing and revenue-sharing. MyMiniFactory is the originator of the SoulCrafted movement.
Thingiverse launched in 2008 and became the largest repository of free 3D-printable designs in the world. The platform hosts over 2 million user-created designs and for many was a formative part of their entry into the world of 3D printing and desktop fabrication.
The merger of Thingiverse with MMF brings the company closer to its vision of creating a community that ‘dares to be human’ by joining the Thingiverse community with YouMagine (a transaction also advised by Carlsquare) and the SoulCrafted Slicer.
SoulCrafted is a movement for digital artists to preserve their soul-led creativity. The initiative seeks to protect and empower creators by introducing the concept of a digital label – a declaration that content originates from human creativity and spirit, not from machines.
“This is about what kind of internet and future we want. AI-generated content is everywhere now and is a threat to the livelihoods of real creators everywhere. We know from launching SoulCrafted that there is real demand for spaces where human work is valued and protected. Thingiverse will be one of those spaces.” – Romain Kidd, new CEO of Thingiverse
“The acquisition of Thingiverse by MyMiniFactory creates the world’s leading entity in digital content for 3D printing. MyMiniFactory brings proven business models and a track record to the communities that have made Thingiverse their home since 2008. The acquisition will create a bright future for the Creators and Makers of both platforms, by offering them more value-added features that will enable these members to grow their own brands and businesses. Over the past year, Carlsquare has been an exceptional advisor and facilitator in supporting the acquisition. Their strategic guidance, hands-on approach, and unwavering commitment were instrumental in navigating the long complex process and bringing a successful outcome for MyMiniFactory.” – Romain Kidd, CEO, Thingiverse (appointed by MMF)
Carlsquare acted as the exclusive financial advisor to MyMiniFactory.
