Business Model

Tugboat 3D Printing (T3DP) & Layer One – Business Model

(Layer One – formerly Youth in 3D Printing)

Overview

Tugboat 3D Printing (T3DP) is a youth-led for-profit business focused on making 3D printing more inclusive, accessible, and youth-driven. At the heart of our mission is Layer One—our educational outreach program formerly known as Youth in 3D Printing (YIP).

Layer One represents both the first step in a 3D print and the foundation for a young maker’s journey. It’s where creativity begins and futures are built—one layer at a time.

Current Operating Model

We currently fund our operations through three primary sources:

• Paid Camps and Workshops – Hands-on learning events where kids design, prototype, and print

• Donations – From individuals and businesses who support youth in STEM

• Owner Contributions – Funding from the youth founders of Tugboat 3D Printing

We do not currently sell products or files. Most proceeds from camps and donations go directly toward Layer One programming and outreach.

Layer One – Outreach & Education Program

Layer One is Tugboat’s initiative to equip kids and classrooms with the skills, tools, and support to explore 3D printing in a fun and inclusive environment.

What We Offer:

• Paid & Free Camps – In-person experiences teaching CAD, 3D printing, and problem solving

• School & Classroom Support – Free consulting, setup help, and printable lesson materials

• Community Engagement – Local events, presentations, and partnerships to expand STEM access

Our Vision

As Tugboat and Layer One grow, we aim to:

• Expand our camp programs into new cities and underserved areas

• Create classroom kits and teacher support tools to make STEM adoption easy

• Develop sponsorships and donor partnerships to keep Layer One free or affordable

• Maintain youth leadership and peer mentorship as the core of everything we do

Layer One, formerly Youth in 3D Printing, is how we bring the future of making to today’s young creators. With every camp, class, and conversation, we’re helping build something bigger—starting at the first layer.