FabNewport
Operates a community FabLab providing access to 3D printers and digital fabrication tools for education and maker projects, reducing barriers to hands-on STEAM learning.
- CEO / Founder
- Steve Heath
- Team Size
- 1-10
- Stage
- Active
- Total Funding
- Undisclosed
- Latest Round
- Grant
- Key Investors
- van Beuren Charitable Foundation; BankNewport
Technology & Products
Key Products
Community FabLab access; 3D printing workshops; STEAM education programs; After-school maker programs; Facility rentals for local businesses
Technological Advantage
Educational outreach model verified by partnerships with 35+ local organizations; uses standard FDM printers (Replicator 2) but differentiates through curriculum integration.
Differentiation
Value Proposition
Democratizes access to advanced fabrication technology through affordable workshops and open lab access, enabling practical STEAM education and local prototyping without capital investment in equipment.
How They Differentiate
Focuses exclusively on community education and equity gaps rather than commercial AM services; operates as a nonprofit with deep local partnerships unlike for-profit makerspaces.
Market & Competition
Target Customers
K-12 students, educators, Newport County residents, local entrepreneurs
Industry Verticals
Education; Community Development
Competitors
Fab Lab Network; Maker Faire; TechShop
Growth & Milestones
Growth Metrics
Expanded from initial FabLab in 2013 to multiple school programs and 35+ community partnerships by 2023.
Major Milestones
Founded in 2013; Opened Florence Gray Center FabLab; Received $25K grant from van Beuren Charitable Foundation for 3D printer purchase; Awarded BankNewport grants in 2023; Recognized as Bike Friendly Business of the Year 2025
Notable Customers
Newport Public Schools; MET High School; All Saints Academy