Automation Alley’s Project DIAMOnD builds on the success of more than 50,000 3D print jobs.
TROY, Mich.—Project DIAMOnD, led by Automation Alley and funded by Oakland County, recently launched its new additive manufacturing marketplace—a secure, peer-to-peer platform where companies can submit 3D printing jobs at scale, and participating small manufacturers across Michigan can fulfill those jobs collaboratively.
Automation Alley described the marketplace as “the nation’s largest distributed 3D printing network,” in a release from the organization.
“The marketplace is designed to leverage the full network of printers for secure commercial transactions, while also protecting intellectual property of the designs,” the release stated. “Orders are distributed across participating manufacturers, with costs and payments shared to ensure that every company contributing gets its piece.”
The marketplace builds on the success of Project DIAMOnD’s network, which has reportedly surpassed 50,000 3D-printed parts since launching in 2020. Originally established through CARES Act funding, the initiative is said to have provided grant-funded 3D printers and training to more than 500 Oakland County small manufacturers, technology companies, and engineering firms.
These businesses have leveraged their printers to create prototypes, produce end-use parts, and fulfill urgent manufacturing needs, while remaining connected to a secure digital network capable of mobilizing production at scale, according to Automation Alley.
“These accomplishments demonstrate the incredible potential of distributed manufacturing to strengthen supply chains, foster innovation, and keep production local,” said Pavan Muzumdar, CEO of Project DIAMOnD and COO of Automation Alley, in the release. “With the marketplace, we’ve created a mechanism for companies to access advanced additive manufacturing without having to own the equipment themselves. Designers don’t even need a printer to benefit. They can simply submit their designs, have them produced securely across the network, and know their intellectual property is protected. This is how small businesses transform the way manufacturing happens in Michigan.”
Companies that want to print at scale via the Project DIAMOnD Marketplace can reach out to contact@projectdiamond.org. Manufacturers interested in joining the network to receive a free 3D printer and training can apply through the “Join” form at www.projectdiamond.org.
The marketplace is designed to protect the intellectual property of designers while giving them access to the full power of the distributed network. Jobs can be produced at higher volumes and faster speeds without requiring companies to purchase their own equipment.
“Designers don’t need to own a 3D printer at all to benefit from the network. They can simply submit their designs and have them securely manufactured at scale by participating Project DIAMOnD members,” the release said.
Project DIAMOnD (Distributed Independent and Agile Manufacturing on Demand) is creating what it called “the nation’s largest connected 3D printing network,” enabling small and medium-sized manufacturers and tech companies to access Industry 4.0 tools, diversify production capabilities, and respond rapidly to market demands. Funded by Oakland County in Phase 2 and powered by Automation Alley, the program provides participating businesses with grant-funded 3D printers, training, and access to a secure digital marketplace for on-demand production.
“With the marketplace now live and 51,153 completed prints, the network has proven both the scalability and real-world impact of distributed manufacturing,” the release said.