MyFab's CASE STUDY

In the ever-evolving landscape of micro and nano fabrication, the challenge remains to bridge the divide between rapid technological advancements and their practical applications. Here at MyFab, located at the heart of Sweden in Stockholm, we've taken on this challenge by facilitating a collaborative ecosystem that promotes innovation, fosters excellence, and drives impactful discoveries.

Our Journey: From Concept to Realization

MyFab was established in 1997 with a clear mission: to provide state-of-the-art facilities and expert support for groundbreaking research in micro and nano fabrication. This sector, often dominated by academic institutions and industry giants, was ripe for a unifying entity that could mobilize resources and expertise efficiently. We fashioned MyFab as this central hub—where academic researchers, tech startups, and industry leaders converge. Our unique business model, characterized by collaborative production and open innovation, sets us apart. In fact, it is this very model that has allowed us to foster a vibrant community, driving forward Sweden's prominence in the field of microtechnology and nanoscience.

The MyFab Distinction: Harnessing Collective Expertise

One of the most compelling aspects of MyFab is the shared laboratory environment we offer. Equipped with cutting-edge tools and technologies, our facilities are second to none. According to the latest industry report by Technavio1, the global nanotechnology market is poised to grow by USD 290.94 billion through 2027, reflecting an impressive CAGR of 17 percent. Such growth trajectories make our offerings not only relevant but essential. By creating an ecosystem that encourages interdisciplinary collaboration, we allow users to ideate, iterate, and innovate with unprecedented efficiency. For instance, our process development services cater to diverse customer needs, from prototyping to small-scale production. This not only reduces the costs typically associated with micro and nano fabrication but also dramatically shortens project timelines.

A Diversified Revenue Model

Our revenue model is both multifaceted and resilient. The primary revenue stream comes from user fees based on project complexity and scope. This variable pricing model ensures that we accommodate a wide range of projects—from academic research to industrial applications. In addition, we actively pursue national and international grants to sustain our research initiatives and infrastructure development. Last year, MyFab secured EUR 5 million in funding from the Swedish Research Council, fortifying our commitment to high-impact research2. Moreover, our partnerships with industry stakeholders generate substantial revenue while reinforcing our position in the micro and nano fabrication ecosystem. These stakeholders include key players like Intel and Ericsson who rely on our infrastructure for pivotal R&D projects.

Powered by People and Technology

What really sets MyFab apart is our specialized workforce. With a focus on hiring top-tier talent in nanoscience and microtechnology, we ensure that our facilities are not just state-of-the-art but also managed by experts capable of maximizing their potential. This dynamic synergy between people and technology enables us to maintain our cutting-edge infrastructure. A case in point is our recent collaboration with the Karolinska Institute. An interdisciplinary team utilized our facilities to develop a groundbreaking microfluidic device to aid in cancer research. The project not only achieved its scientific objectives but also garnered significant media attention, demonstrating the power of collaborative production in driving meaningful outcomes3.

Tailoring Solutions to Customer Needs

Customer needs drive all our initiatives. As highlighted in a Harvard Business Review article by Clayton Christensen4, understanding the "Jobs to Be Done" can vastly improve business strategy. At MyFab, we cater to these needs by offering a plethora of services—from quality control to R&D support. Our commitment to reducing costs and providing access to world-class facilities makes us a prime destination for researchers and companies alike. Emotionally, we provide affiliation, belonging, and self-actualization for our users. For instance, being part of a prestigious project at MyFab imbues a sense of badge value and professional achievement. Functionally, we excel at connecting different disciplines, improving quality, and integrating various aspects of the research process.

A Future-Forward Vision

Innovation never stands still, and neither do we. As part of our future roadmap, we plan to expand our digital capabilities further. This includes integrating AI-driven analytics into our process development services, as highlighted by a McKinsey report5 which points out that AI can enhance R&D efficiency by up to 20 percent. Moreover, we are exploring sustainable fabrication techniques to align with global environmental standards. Given that sustainability is becoming an increasingly critical factor in R&D sectors, our commitment to eco-friendly practices strengthens our value proposition significantly.

Conclusion

The journey of MyFab is a testament to the power of collaboration, innovation, and strategic foresight. By providing cutting-edge facilities and fostering a collaborative ecosystem, we've not only advanced the frontiers of micro and nano fabrication but also created an inspiring model for integrating research, technology, and industry. With a diversified revenue model and a keen focus on customer needs, MyFab stands resilient, ready to push the boundaries of what is possible in micro and nanotechnology. --- 1. Technavio. (2023). Global Nanotechnology Market 2023-2027: Growth Outlook. 2. Swedish Research Council. (2022). Funding Allocation Report. 3. Karolinska Institute. (2023). Annual Research Highlights. 4. Christensen, C. M. (2016). Competing Against Luck: The Story of Innovation and Customer Choice. Harvard Business Review Press. 5. McKinsey & Company. (2023). AI in R&D: Unlocking Efficiency and Innovation.