Intel Capital has invested an undisclosed amount in two companies with 3D printing potential: Lithuania-based CGTrader, which runs a 3D computer graphics, model marketplace, and US-based makexyz, which connects people to 3D printers in their neighbourhood.
Arvind Sodhani, president of Intel Capital and executive vice president of Intel Corporation. “3D printing is changing the way individuals and businesses give life to ideas. We’re seeing the impact of this technology on numerous industries, including manufacturing, medical, retail and consumable goods, among others. CGTrader and makexyz will drive the development of the ecosystem.”
CGTrader, based in Vilnius, Lithuania and backed by local seed fund Practica Capital, won a prize for best startup at ICT 2013, following a pitch which centred on its potential to expand its marketplace beyond computer graphics and into 3D printing.
Marius Kalytis, CGTrader CEO, said: “As 3D printers enter consumer homes, any designer with a brilliant idea will be able to create a breakthrough physical product and easily distribute it to millions of customers worldwide. This shift will transform multiple industries – and 3D content creators will be at the center of this transformation.”
Nathan Tone, makexyz CEO, said: “Our goal is to help people make stuff – and Intel Capital’s investment strengthens our opportunity to help people make stuff at a significant scale. With a quickly growing, global network of 3-D printers, a lot becomes possible.”
Intel Capital investment director Klaus Konrad led the CGTrader deal, which is Intel Capital’s first investment in Lithuania, and Ranjeet Alexis led the makexyz deal.