If you’re thinking of launching a startup (or are already amidst the craziness), Indiegogo and Arrow can help. The companies recently announced a partnership that will give entrepreneurs access to discounted components and manufacturing services through a joint site made just for Indiegogo crowdfunders.
The effort is an initiative to help small entrepreneurs successfully launch their idea by providing access to discounted parts, design support, and supply chain vendors (including engineers and manufacturing facilities). This allows startups to design and develop their ideas more cost-effectively (and is an incentive to draw makers to Indiegogo versus the seemingly similar Kickstarter).
Indiegogo has been the platform of choice for a number of startups, including FOREO’s ISSA mikro electric baby toothbrush and the Edge Desk, and it regularly runs campaigns to help entrepreneurs get the help they need (including this one for women-only). Arrow is a one-stop shop for manufacturers and designers to collaborate and bring ideas to life. Through the partnership, Arrow team members will evaluate Indiegogo projects based on feasibility and importance, and will offer discounts to recipients it deems worthy (so you’ll have to earn your keep). All the resources together are valued at between $20,000-$500,000 depending what is utilized.
Entrepreneurs looking to sign up for the initiative can start a campaign on Indiegogo. Arrow also has a sign up form on its website, but the company will have to deem your project worthy before you can cash in on manufacturing discounts.
Whether or not you are selected for the program, Indiegogo has launched additional programs to help you out. If your project is fully funded, you can now continue to collect pre-orders for your product on the site’s InDemand platform. You can also sell in the Indiegogo Marketplace once it’s market-ready. What’s more, Indiegogo also partnered with Brookstone and Amazon to help entrepreneurs get to market faster.
If you’re considering launching a startup, the free resources have never been more plentiful. Good luck and happy making!
