Top 5 Benefits of the 3DEXPERIENCE for Startups Program

1. Fast development from concept to prototype

The SOLIDWORKS for Startups provides one year of free access to the complete SOLIDWORKS and 3DEXPERIENCE platforms, which are used by global industry leaders. These are not trial or educational versions, but full professional environments that enable you to create advanced projects without incurring licence costs.

For instance, a start-up developing an agricultural drone created a prototype ready for field tests within four months using airflow simulations and structural durability tests, thereby securing initial orders.

Hatimeria has joined the 3DEXPERIENCE for Startups programme. With full access to SOLIDWORKS, the company can now develop digital solutions for its industrial clients - such as 3D configurators and spare parts catalogs - faster and without compromises. This milestone benefits not only Hatimeria but also the manufacturing companies it supports, enabling quicker delivery of tailored, high-quality innovations.

According to the Startup Genome - Global Startup Ecosystem Report 2024, technological innovation remains a key driver of startup growth worldwide. Analysis of over 4.5 million start-ups from 300 ecosystems shows an increasing market appreciation for advanced tools and platforms that enable rapid prototyping and flexible product scaling.

source: startupgenome.com

Technologies such as SOLIDWORKS and the 3DEXPERIENCE cloud platform are perfectly suited to meeting these needs, helping start-ups to develop innovative products efficiently and accelerate their entry to the market.

The program is aimed at companies that:

• Have been running for less than three years,
• Work on designing or manufacturing physical products,
• Are independent from consulting firms,
• And don’t yet have significant revenue.

Meeting these criteria grants access to a full range of tools, free of licence costs, for one year. This represents real savings and an advantage.

A great example is Smart Soccer, an innovative company that produces modular street football fields by revitalizing often-unused asphalt schoolyards.

Hubert Bergolec, Production Specialist at Smart Soccer, shares his experience: "The 3DEXPERIENCE platform improved information flow across the company and streamlined communication between departments. Right after implementation, we noticed clearer task distribution and smoother coordination between team members."

Curious how to apply this in your own business? Check out the practical eBook “Become a 3DEXPERIENCE Expert” - a step-by-step guide created specifically for startups. It’s packed with tips, real-world examples, and actionable insights.

2. Support that accelerates development with 3DEXPERIENCE For Startups

Starting with a new design environment can be overwhelming. That’s why the SOLIDWORKS Startup Program offers support from people who will guide you step by step to help you make the best use of the available tools. Need technical help or expert advice? You can rely on consultations with engineers and mentors.

Start-ups can access over 100 hours of educational content, including courses, webinars and tutorials. Participants also have access to a community of over 150,000 active SOLIDWORKS users and industry experts, enabling quick problem solving.

Additionally, presenting at industry events increases startups' visibility, and participating in international conferences such as 3DEXPERIENCE World helps them to establish contacts with potential investors and partners. Integration events such as the SOLIDEXPERT Conference and 3DEXPERIENCE TOUR are organised in Poland.

3. One work environment – from anywhere!

The 3DEXPERIENCE platform eliminates the typical issues associated with file version management and team communication. All data is stored in the cloud, so there is no need to install additional software. Tools such as the Bookmark Editor and Project Planner help start-ups to organise their work more effectively, while transparency and real-time collaboration reduce design errors.

Available tools include:

• 3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS Premium: advanced CAD design
• Collaborative Business Innovator: business collaboration tools;
• 3D Creator and 3D Sculptor for 3D modelling.
• Project Planner for task planning;
• SOLIDWORKS Simulation Designer for simulations and analyses;
• the educational platform, 3DEXPERIENCE Works Learner.

4. Flexibility and fast business scaling with 3DEXPERINCE For Startups

The programme enables projects to be scaled from the first prototype (MVP) to mass production using the same environment and tools. This is particularly significant given that, according to Deloitte research, 80% of start-ups fail due to an inability to adapt a new product for mainstream markets (Deloitte, 2021). However, PwC's recent analyses indicate that startup failure rates are decreasing and success rates are increasing, thanks to better access to technology and support.

source: pwc.co.uk

For instance, a startup developing smart medical devices began with a basic prototype for clinical trials. Using 3DEXPERIENCE, the company was able to rapidly develop the project by adding new features and optimising the design without having to switch software. When the time came for mass production, the entire process was efficiently managed within one system, significantly reducing time-to-market and enabling swift responses to user feedback.

5. Long-Term benefits after program completion

After completing the one-year programme, participants can purchase licences at preferential rates and continue to receive support from SOLIDWORKS partners. This investment helps to maintain growth and scale the business at subsequent stages.

• Program participation provides easier access to investors and business partners.
• Participants receive assistance with promotion and participation in industry events to increase brand recognition.
• Integrated tools streamline the entire process, from idea to product launch.

Summary

The 3DEXPERIENCE for Startups programme provides young companies with a real advantage by offering access to professional tools, expert support and an integrated work environment that enables faster and more efficient product development. With SOLIDWORKS and 3DEXPERIENCE, teams can collaborate effectively, build skills quickly, and speed up the design process. Upon completion of the programme, companies benefit from preferential licence purchase terms and ongoing support to help them grow their business safely. It's not just about tools - it's an advantage that supports your growth at every stage.

Have an idea for digitizing your business processes?

Hatimeria, as an official partner of the 3DEXPERIENCE for Startups program with full access to SOLIDWORKS, will build a Proof of Concept tailored to your needs - no fluff, just real results. Get in touch with us and see how Hatimeria can transform your business.