NavLab
A FabLab (digital fabrication laboratory) in Antibes, France, providing community access to 3D printers, CNC mills, and vinyl cutters for prototyping maritime and DIY projects, with a focus on collaborative learning and circular economy practices.
- CEO / Founder
- Bruno Messin
- Team Size
- 1-10
- Stage
- Defunct
- Total Funding
- €6.68K
- Latest Round
- Crowdfunding
- Key Investors
- Crowdfunding backers
Technology & Products
Key Products
Community workshop access; 3D printing services; CNC milling; Vinyl cutting; Coworking space; Training and workshops
Technological Advantage
Community-driven model lowers barriers to entry for digital fabrication; localized expertise in maritime prototyping provides niche advantage in coastal regions.
Differentiation
Value Proposition
Offers affordable access to professional-grade 3D printing and digital fabrication equipment in a community-driven environment, enabling rapid prototyping, skill-sharing, and project development for maritime and creative applications without high capital investment.
How They Differentiate
Focuses specifically on maritime and boating projects, unlike general FabLabs; located in Antibes near Port Vauban, catering to local sailing community.
Market & Competition
Target Customers
DIY enthusiasts, sailors, entrepreneurs, artists, and hobbyists in the French Riviera seeking digital fabrication tools and collaborative workspace.
Industry Verticals
Maritime; Education; Arts and Crafts; DIY/Consumer
Competitors
SoFab (IoT FabLab in Sophia Antipolis); Comptoir de l'Imaginaire (3D café in Nice)
Growth & Milestones
Growth Metrics
The NavLab opened in July 2014 in Antibes, France, and closed in 2017 after the founder left the region.
Major Milestones
Founded in 2014; Launched crowdfunding campaign in 2015 for CNC mill and digital embroiderer; Now closed as per FabLabs.io listing