Protolabs Network

Protolabs Network is an online manufacturing platform that provides businesses on-demand access to a global network of more than 250 manufacturing partners. It is part of Protolabs’ global manufacturing services, offering 3D printing, CNC machining, injection molding and sheet metal fabrication.

Previously known as “3D Hubs”, and later “Hubs”, it was acquired by Protolabs in 2021 to provide expanded capabilities and volume pricing options to designers and engineers.

Company
Protolabs Network, formerly known as “3D Hubs”, was founded in Amsterdam in April 2013 by Bram de Zwart and Brian Garret, with Filemon Schöffer later joining the founding team. It was the world’s largest peer-to-peer network of 3D printing services. As the company grew, it added more capabilities and higher-volume production options, changing its name to “Hubs”. In January 2021, Minnesota-based Protolabs, a publicly traded custom part manufacturer, announced an agreement to acquire the company for $280 million in cash and stock, plus incentives. In January 2024, Hubs rebranded as Protolabs Network to reflect its integration with Protolabs. Protolabs’ technology-enabled factories in the US and Europe are complemented by its network’s expanded manufacturing capabilities, such as tighter tolerances and more complex parts.

Industry reports & initiatives
The company releases regular reports on leading trends and developments within the manufacturing industry, including the 3D Printing Trend Report and the Supply Chain Resilience Report. Hubs also runs a yearly student grant with the aim of encouraging and supporting engineering students in their development of innovative projects. In 2020, Hubs launched the COVID-19 Manufacturing fund, to help fund and manufacture vital protective equipment such as face shields for hospitals in need during the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Awards

 * In 2014, Wired UK named 3D Hubs Startup of the Week.
 * In 2018, 3D Hubs won the Dutch market challenger award by Sprout.
 * In 2019 and 2020, Hubs was named amongst the Deloitte Fast 50 list of fastest growing technology companies in the Netherlands.
 * In 2020, 3D Hubs CEO Bram de Zwart was named in Business Insider's list of 100 leaders transforming business in Europe.