Dive Brief:

• Xavier University is partnering with MakerBot to create an “innovation center” for 3D printing.
• The MakerBot center will have 31 MakerBot Replicator 3D printers, PLA thermoplastic filament, desktop 3D scanners, and a proprietary system linking the printers — all purchased by private donors on behalf of the university, 3D Print reported.
• The center will also have space dedicated for startup businesses and networking, with the intention of attracting entrepreneurs and researchers, allowing students to work directly with them on projects.

Dive Insight:

How expensive is a MakerBot 3D printer? Different versions of its Replicator printer sell for $2,499 to $6,499 on the MakerBot website, which would add up to a no-discounts tab of between $77,469 and $201,469 for 31 of the printers. Xavier is claiming to be the first private institution in the country to partner with MakerBot, which also has centers at three public universities. The center will be housed in Xavier’s new Center for Innovation building, which is dedicated to the 3D printer program. MakerBot, a New York company founded in 2009, says it will provide Xavier with consulting help, technical support, training, and curriculum development assistance for faculty.