How the SOLIDWORKS startup program is transforming manufacturing

By: Kathryn Gerardino-Elagio

From bold ideas to real-world impact, Abhishek Bali—Director of Mainstream Innovation for the SOLIDWORKS Startup Global Ecosystem and 3DEXPERIENCE Lab—shared with International Metalworking News for Asia (IMNA) the evolving mission of the SOLIDWORKS for Startups program and the 3DEXPERIENCE Lab, revealing how Dassault Systèmes is fueling a global wave of innovation—from sustainable impact projects to manufacturing breakthroughs—by empowering hardware startups across sectors.

IMNA: To start, what is your overarching vision for the future of manufacturing, especially in relation to how the 3DEXPERIENCE Lab contributes to this transformation?

Abhishek Bali: That’s a great place to begin. We actually run two distinct programs—SOLIDWORKS for Startups and the 3DEXPERIENCE Lab. SOLIDWORKS for Startups supports early-stage hardware startups under $1 million in revenue and under five years old. If they qualify, we provide up to US$80,000 worth of software free in the first year, with 70% discounts in year two and 50% in year three.

The 3DEXPERIENCE Lab is more selective, focused on startups tackling complex challenges in sustainability or deep-tech innovation. We take only about ten per year there. What’s unique is how both programs shift the manufacturing paradigm—from just building physical products to incorporating intelligence, digital design, and collaboration early in the process.

IMNA: That sounds game-changing. How are startups responding?

Abhishek: The numbers speak volumes. Last year alone, 10,000 companies applied to the startup program, and we onboarded 5,500 of them. Around 60% proceed to the second year. That’s impressive, considering how hard it is for hardware startups to survive beyond year one. Through our support, they move faster, make fewer mistakes, and gain credibility to attract investment.

IMNA: Can you share a success story that highlights the program’s impact?

Abhishek: Absolutely! One standout is SparkCharge, a Boston-based startup that builds portable EV chargers. They joined our program four years ago, pitched on Shark Tank, secured funding, and are now valued at over US$100 million. Another is Joules Robotics in Australia—they make industrial robots for hazardous materials handling. There’s also Aerologix in New Zealand, building fixed-wing drones for deliveries in remote areas.

Even unexpected industries benefit. A startup called Oslo developed soundproofing windows for noisy cities like New York, won at CES, and used crowdfunding to scale. It’s not just about making big machines—sometimes small, clever innovations make the biggest splash.

IMNA: That’s inspiring. What would you say are the biggest challenges startups face?

Abhishek: We hear the same top four over and over. First: cost—especially for tools and software. That’s where we come in, covering those expenses to remove the first barrier. Second: team dynamics. A startup isn’t just about smart people—it’s about how well they collaborate, like a family. Third: knowledge gaps. Many founders don’t realise how powerful their tools are or how to use them efficiently.

And finally, communication. Engineers often struggle with pitching their ideas or securing investment. That’s why we connect startups to accelerators and investors. We want them to succeed not only technically but as businesses too.

IMNA: What’s Dassault Systèmes doing to support knowledge sharing?

Abhishek: We’re redesigning our websites and platforms to provide even more startup resources—templates, case studies, learning modules, and more. We also bring selected startups to major industry events like CES.

IMNA: That’s amazing. But with no financial return in the first year, why do it?

Abhishek: Because it’s personal. I can’t tell you how many times someone’s walked up to me at an event wearing our T-shirt and said, “Thank you. Your program helped us survive.” That emotional connection is real. Some companies are working on life-saving technologies—like Membio in Canada, which is developing bioreactors for synthetic blood, or Cellink, which 3D prints human cells. Helping these companies isn't just about business. It’s about impact. It’s incredibly fulfilling.

IMNA: What advice would you give to startups and established companies navigating digital manufacturing?

Abhishek: Number one: stay open to learning. The digital manufacturing landscape moves fast, and you need to be agile. Second, build your prototype early and test it with customers. Don't assume the market needs what you’re building—go out and confirm it.

Also, simplify your solutions. Solving complex problems doesn’t mean creating complex products. The most elegant solutions are often the simplest. And invest time in your digital foundation. Using platforms like the 3DEXPERIENCE Platform early can reduce time, cost, and material waste dramatically. Make your process “top-heavy”—front-load the smart thinking into design.

IMNA: That’s great insight. Are you seeing startups from South East Asia join the program?

Abhishek: Yes! While the majority—around 35%—come from North America, and another third from Europe, about 25% are now from Asia. India alone accounts for 15%. We’re actively expanding in South East Asia—Hong Kong, Singapore, Taiwan, the Philippines, Indonesia, and Malaysia.

Last year, we toured several cities and universities to build awareness. We believe there's enormous untapped talent in these regions. Cost is a challenge there, but the hunger to learn and innovate is unmatched. Programs like ours can really make a difference in leveling the playing field.

IMNA: Thanks so much for your time, Abhishek. You’ve painted a vivid picture of how startups can drive the future of manufacturing—with the right tools, team, and guidance.

Abhishek: Thank you! And yes, we’re not just giving software—we’re giving them a chance to build their future. That’s what makes this so worthwhile.