Gathering funds for 3D SLS printer – a handful of tips

Over the past few years, we’ve had countless conversations with startups, product design teams, and small manufacturers around the world – all excited about the possibilities of SLS printing, yet facing the same question: how do we actually fund it?

While every company’s situation is different, these talks have helped us spot some clear patterns and best practices. Below are a few things we’ve learned from real businesses that successfully brought SLS technology in-house. And receiving SLS financing was just w part of it.

First step to invest in 3D printing: build a compelling business case

The first step is always clarity. Whenever we speak with founders or engineers who manage to secure SLS funding, they all start with a clear, well-documented business case. It’s not enough to say the printer will “save time” – show how much.

Calculate the cost of outsourcing prototypes, delays in iteration, or missed opportunities when you can’t produce parts on demand. Compare those numbers to owning your own SLS printer. The most convincing cases show measurable ROI within 12 – 24 months and highlight specific outcomes – shorter lead times, new service offerings, or reduced dependency on suppliers. When the numbers tell the story, it’s easier for stakeholders or investors to say yes.

Consider SLS funding via financing, leasing, or installment plans

In our experience, many smaller companies hesitate because they assume the full cost must be paid upfront. That’s rarely the case anymore. Financing and leasing programs are designed exactly for businesses like yours – to get started faster without locking up all your capital.

3D printer leasing allows the device to start working for you immediately, generating revenue while you spread the cost over time. Some vendors even offer tailored plans that include servicing or upgrades, which can simplify budgeting. This flexibility often turns a “someday investment” into a project that starts this quarter.

Look into grants for manufacturing startups, innovation programs, and regional incentives

One of the most overlooked funding sources we see – especially among smaller firms – are public or industry-specific grants. Many countries support innovation, Industry 4.0 adoption, or digital transformation through co-financed programs. Even if the paperwork looks intimidating, the potential savings are significant.

Companies we’ve worked with have used such grants to cover up to half the total cost of equipment or training. Your local chamber of commerce, innovation hubs, or manufacturing clusters are often the best starting points. It’s worth designating a few hours to explore these – they can make a major difference to your cash flow.

SLS financing: explore partnerships and shared ownership models

Some find success in collaborative ownership. Instead of purchasing a machine alone, they share it with another company, design studio, or even an educational partner.

For example, one startup co-invests in an SLS printer with a local prototyping lab – they split the cost, and in return, both businesses gain access to professional-grade technology. This kind of partnership not only reduces financial pressure but also builds useful relationships and a shared innovation ecosystem.

If you have reliable partners with complementary needs, this can be a smart stepping-stone toward full ownership later.

Think long-term — it’s more than just a printer

One thing that consistently comes up in our discussions is how SLS changes the way a business operates. It’s not simply about owning equipment – it’s about gaining strategic capability.

The companies that thrive with SLS see it as a long-term investment in agility and innovation. It allows them to test, adapt, and launch faster – giving them a competitive edge that’s hard to quantify but easy to feel once it’s in place. When you frame the purchase as a strategic enabler rather than a cost, the conversation about funding becomes much easier.

Q&A summary

Monika Jurek

[email protected]

SLS 3D Customer-Centric Associate with two years of experience working with companies worldwide. She specializes in helping businesses identify optimal solutions for implementing 3D printing using SLS technology.