005: Miniature Construction Materials

Product Startup · 5 Apr 2016 · 49m

What this episode covers

Mat Hofma and Erik Polumbo, founders of Mini Materials, explain how they launched a business selling miniature cinder blocks and pallets using a budget of under $500 for prototyping. They detail their process of 3D printing, creating silicone molds, and casting real concrete, while leveraging Instagram and Reddit for organic marketing. The duo discusses their decision to keep manufacturing in the U.S. to maintain margins and quality, and their strategy for scaling production by contracting local individuals rather than using large overseas factories.

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