Munich Startup: What does Micro Factory do? What problem are you solving?
Alexander Stieren: Micro Factory develops high-precision, resin-based 3D printer, which automate the entire printing process and protect users from the risks associated with the process. Our goal is to be able to map all development steps, from the initial prototypes to series production, with our Micro Factory, more quickly, easily, and flexibly than ever before. One click in our software, and the parts are automatically ejected from our printer a few hours later.
Munich Startup: But that's been around for a long time!
Alexander Stieren: Not really: The printing process typically consists of three steps, each of which the user must complete individually, and in the process, comes into contact with highly toxic substances. Our approach combines automation with integrated safety mechanisms to fully control the process and minimize exposure to users. Through our innovative technology, we offer a unique solution that isn't available in this form on the market. And all this in a handy desktop format.
Micro Factory: From student workshop to own company
Munich Startup: What is your founding story?
Alexander Stieren: As founders, we met a few years ago at the university's C.Lab, an open workshop run by and for students. There, we frequently worked with SLA printers and saw the drawbacks of existing solutions. At some point, we sat down together and considered possible solutions to these problems, and that's how Micro Factory was born.
Munich Startup: What have been your biggest challenges so far?
Alexander Stieren: In addition to the technology itself, one of the biggest challenges is German bureaucracy. From the company structure, employee registration with health insurance companies, negotiations with the mini-job center to simple orders from subsidies, an incredible amount of time and money is spent on processes that do not provide any direct added value for the product.
Munich Startup: Where would you like to be in one year, where in five years?
Alexander Stieren: In one year, we aim to be firmly established as a manufacturer of 3D printers in the dental and audiology industries and have entered into our first major partnerships. In the long term, in five years, we see ourselves as the market leader in automated SLA printers and plan to expand our technology to other industries.
Dynamic and supportive location in Munich
Munich Startup: How have you experienced Munich as a startup location so far?
Alexander Stieren: Munich is a dynamic and supportive location for startups. The city offers a variety of networking events and access to experienced mentors and investors. The collaboration with UnternehmerTUM and the TUM Venture Labs, who support us with ongoing feedback. Overall, Munich is an excellent location to found and grow a startup.
Munich Startup: Outsource or do it yourself?
Alexander Stieren: Definitely do it yourself first! As a founding team that evolved from a workshop for makers, it's very important to us to develop and build as much of our machines as possible ourselves so that we can identify errors and potential for innovation as quickly as possible. Of course, we also rely on experienced external partners for matters such as accounting and legal advice.
