Africa's Manufacturing Platform is an online hub that lets users upload CAD files to receive instant quotes and order 3D printing, CNC machining, and PCB manufacturing services delivered across Africa. The platform also includes a peer‑to‑peer marketplace for buying and selling electronic components and hardware, plus integrated PLM tools to manage product lifecycles from prototype to full production. It streamlines the entire manufacturing workflow on a single, Africa‑focused interface.
Funding
Funding not disclosed
Founders
Product
Problem
Designers and manufacturers in Africa often face long lead times, high shipping costs, and limited access to local prototyping and low‑volume production services, making it difficult to iterate quickly or source components regionally.
Solution
FamilyMake offers a unified online platform where users can upload CAD files and receive instant quotes for 3D printing, CNC machining, and PCB manufacturing, with delivery to any location across the continent. The service supports a range of materials and metals, and typical orders are fulfilled within 48 hours, enabling rapid prototyping and short‑run production. In addition, a peer‑to‑peer marketplace connects buyers and sellers of electronic components, hardware, and manufacturing services, fostering a local supply chain. Integrated PLM tools allow customers to track designs, manage revisions, and coordinate production from prototype through to volume manufacturing, all within a single web interface.
Target Audience
Primary customers are product designers, hardware startups, and engineering teams in Africa that need rapid prototyping, low‑volume production, or a reliable source of electronic components, as well as manufacturers seeking to list services on the marketplace.
Features
- Instant pricing engine for STL/OBJ 3D prints, Gerber PCB files, and CNC job specifications
- Fast turnaround (average 48 hr) with shipping to any African address
- Multi‑material 3D printing (PLA, PETG, ABS, etc.) and precision CNC machining of aluminium, steel, and engineering plastics
- Upcoming PCB manufacturing with assembly options and a verified catalog of African component suppliers
- Peer‑to‑peer marketplace for buying and selling electronic parts, modules, and hardware
- Built‑in PLM software for design version control, order management, and production tracking
- Support for custom design services and expert assistance when users lack ready‑made CAD files