1. Find prototype makers that fit your budget. Prototype-making involves molding, assembly, and labor costs. Traditionally, making a prototype gets somewhat expensive. Settle upon the material you want to use for your prototype, which should be the same as what you want to use in the final product. Speak to representatives at companies and check their costs and credentials.


2.Protect your design. As you consult with prototype companies, ask about their credentials and past work to ensure that the prototype will be quality and true to your design. Even if the company you choose has worked well with its customers in the past, get a non-disclosure agreement from the company or designer before you hire them, unless you already have a patent.

  • The more professional the prototype looks, the easier it will be to sell to prospective buyers.
  • The non-disclosure agreement serves as legal protection in case someone steals your design.


3.Consider 3D printing. 3D printing is a rapidly expanding field. These printers use CAD designs from scanned or computer-made 3D models to layer material into a working prototype. Many firms exist now that offer a simple, cheaper alternative in prototype-making. Be sure to check a company’s costs and credentials before you hire them.

  • These printers are also increasingly found in homes, so you may be able to print the prototype yourself.
  • Remember to get a non-disclosure agreement if you don’t have a patent so no one can steal your design.

3.Obtain funding. A good prototype gives your product more appeal to investors. First, you can approach friends and family for extra funding, but you may need to approach outside sources to make your product’s production a reality. There are several ways to do this, such as pitching your product to companies, finding investors through networking, or trying crowdfunding.

  • Crowdfunding can be done online through sites such as Kickstarter where you showcase your design for pre-purchases.
  • You can trade equity in your product to sites such as 500 Startups and Y Combinator for an investment.
  • Contact brand names that would be interested in your product or seek out individual investors and convince them of the success of your idea.


4.Fill your orders. Make as many of your product as you can sell. The initial construction cost of a prototype is expensive for anyone who doesn’t have a lot of extra money on hand, so you don’t want to get stuck with a large inventory. As you try to sell your product, you’ll also need to go back and improve upon the design.[8]

  • Consider packaging and shipping costs in addition to manufacturing and storage.