Printed Solid: From Local Business to U.S. Manufacturing Leader

Written on December 15, 2025. Posted in Success Stories.

Printed Solid: From Local Business
to U.S. Manufacturing Leader

December 15, 2025

Printed Solid, a Delaware-based manufacturer, is helping to make high-quality 3D printing in Delaware more accessible to the United States market while providing new jobs to U.S.-based workers.

Printed Solid represents a bridge between the open-source, community-driven roots of desktop 3D printing and worldwide 3D-printer giants. Occupying its own unique niche, the company combines the localized support of smaller hobbyist filament shops with the reliability and production-ready infrastructure of worldwide industry giants.

Printed Solid has been providing high-quality 3D printers, filaments and accessories for the business-to-business market – serving educational institutions, government agencies and other commercial operations – since current CEO David Randolph acquired the company in 2013. In the decade-plus since then, the company has become known for its broad inventory, reliable service and custom products and training within the growing U.S. maker community.

More recently, the 3D printing company in Delaware also has been making headlines with its ambitious growth plans since a strategic acquisition by global industry leader Prusa Research – a Czech company that is one of the most recognized international names in 3D printing.

“Our goal is to become the largest manufacturer of 3D printers and filaments in the USA,” says Prusa Research CEO Josef Prusa. “In an era where 3D printing is becoming increasingly crucial for innovation and intellectual property development, we believe local manufacturing is essential for long-term prosperity and security.”

Delaware Prosperity Partnership (DPP) engaged with Printed Solid in the fall of 2024 upon learning of Prusa’s acquisition of the company and assisted the company with exploring expansion locations to accommodate the company’s expected growth. As a result, Printed Solid moved to a 100,000-square-foot facility on Crowell Drive in the Newport area and is expanding rapidly. This includes employment growth for a team largely composed of military veterans, former educators and enterprise deployment engineers. In the last year, Printed Solid’s workforce has expanded from 25 employees to almost 60. Plans are to create an additional 60 new jobs over the next three years, reflecting the company’s commitment to provide high-quality employment opportunities in New Castle County as it serves the nationwide market.

“By increasing our manufacturing capabilities here in Delaware, we are making high-quality Prusa products and customer service even more accessible and affordable to our customers here in the United States,” says Randolph. “At the same time, we are proud to be contributing to the local economy and expanding our workforce to provide more job opportunities for American workers.”

Printed Solid’s expansion is a Delaware success story, that of a small local company challenging its competitors – most of which are based in China. In fact, more than 90 percent of competitor products were manufactured in China as recently as 2023. This created a significant opportunity for sizeable domestic production, which Printed Solid is prepared to provide – reducing shipping times, simplifying compliance hurdles and offering a one-stop-shop feel for the complex printing needs of a growing roster of new clients across the nation.

The expansion also is helping to position Delaware as a hub for advanced manufacturing and reshoring initiatives.

“The partnership between Printed Solid and Prusa Research,” says Becky Harrington, DPP’s Interim President & CEO, “exemplifies how foreign direct investment or FDI can drive local growth, create jobs and strengthen America’s manufacturing base.”

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Delaware’s Role in the Global Economy

Written on February 18, 2025. Posted in Blog.

A Key Player in the Global Economy

Delaware, known for its business-friendly policies and prime location, holds a pivotal position in the global economy. As a hub for corporate activity and innovation, the state’s impact extends far beyond its borders. With a strong connection to major metropolitan areas like Philadelphia and Washington, D.C., Delaware benefits from access to world-class infrastructure, research institutions, and a highly skilled workforce.

A Global Business Destination

Delaware has long been a preferred destination for businesses to enter the U.S. market, with over 68% of Fortune 500 companies incorporated in the state. Its robust legal framework, highlighted by the renowned Court of Chancery, offers businesses the stability and predictability needed for international operations. These factors make Delaware a critical player in global commerce, attracting foreign direct investment and fostering economic growth.

Delaware’s close ties to major economic hubs such as Philadelphia and Washington, D.C., enhance its accessibility and influence in global markets. Philadelphia International Airport (PHL), which served 28 million passengers in 2023 and offers 123 nonstop destinations, provides critical access to international markets. PHL also ranks as the 8th best airport globally for on-time departures, ensuring efficient travel for business leaders and global partners. Delaware’s access to PHL makes it easier for international companies to visit and maintain strong business relationships. Additionally, Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI) further expands connectivity, offering another convenient option for global travel.

A Thriving Life Sciences Ecosystem and International Talent Base

Delaware benefits from its proximity to Philadelphia, a region that is increasingly recognized as a global destination for talent. CBRE ranked the metro-area as the 7th best market for life sciences manufacturing talent and 8th best market for life sciences R&D talent in 2024. Home to over 150 universities and colleges within a two-hour drive including University of Delaware, University of Pennsylvania, Princeton University, and Drexel University, the Delaware region produces a steady stream of highly skilled graduates in key fields driving innovation.

Additionally, the Washington, D.C.-Baltimore MSA, closely linked to central and southern Delaware, is a top-ranked market for biotechnology, biochemistry, and life sciences research and development. CBRE ranked the region as the 3rd best market for life sciences R&D talent and the 9th best market for life sciences manufacturing talent. With historic institutions like John Hopkins producing top-tier graduates, Delaware remains within reach of a global leader in cutting-edge medical and scientific advancements.

Moreover, the Delaware region’s cost-effectiveness relative to other East Coast cities enhances its appeal to young professionals and international enterprises looking for an accessible yet dynamic business environment. These factors ensure that Delaware remains well-connected to a dynamic labor market that fuels economic growth and global business expansion.

Staying a Key Player in the Global Economy

Delaware’s role in the global economy is both significant and evolving. From its status as a corporate hub to its strong regional connections and life sciences talent pipelines, the state continues to drive economic progress. With strategic advantages such as proximity to major international airports, a top-tier workforce, and a commitment to innovation, Delaware is poised to remain a key player in the global marketplace for years to come.

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DPP Signs MOU with UK’s Port of Blyth

Written on November 5, 2024. Posted in Press Releases.

DPP Signs Memorandum of Understanding with UK Port to Further Innovation, Market Growth

Port of Blyth CEO Martin Lawlor, left, and Delaware Prosperity Partnership Global Advisor David Smallman sign the five-year memorandum of understanding at the Port of Blyth offices in Northumberland, England.

Partnership aims to support economic development and growth of energy transition opportunities in both regions

November 4, 2024

Delaware Prosperity Partnership (DPP), the lead statewide economic development organization for Delaware, and the Port of Blyth (PoB), a leading offshore energy base in the North East of England, have signed a cooperative agreement to leverage the strengths of both organizations to foster innovation, facilitate market expansion and enhance workforce capabilities in both Delaware and Blyth.

The five-year memorandum of understanding (MOU) outlines areas of action for a partnership that will enhance the visibility of both DPP and the Port of Blyth while also supporting economic growth for Delaware and the North East of England. The agreement, which was signed in Northumberland, England, aims to drive mutual benefits through potential economic development, knowledge sharing, promotion and consulting services.

Created in 2017, Delaware Prosperity Partnership is the nonprofit public/private organization that leads Delaware’s statewide economic development efforts to attract, grow and retain businesses; build a stronger entrepreneurial and innovation ecosystem; and support private employers in identifying, recruiting and developing talent.

Located on the East Coast of the UK, the Port of Blyth is a leading offshore energy support base, an important hub for the movement of a range of project, containerized, dry bulk and break-bulk cargoes as well as a key location for offshore decommissioning. The Port is a single day’s drive from all mainland UK destinations and is used as a strategic hub by shippers serving Northern England and Scotland.

“The Port of Blyth is one of the leading ports in the world that really know how to handle companies in the energy transition space, and DPP is eager to tap into its expertise,” said Kurt Foreman, President and CEO of DPP, who attended the signing virtually. “Formalizing our cross-Atlantic relationship will allow DPP to leverage the port’s considerable capabilities and experience and enhance our ability to assist companies from Delaware and abroad, build further connections and, where possible, aid in creating more jobs and more revenue both here and overseas.”

Representing DPP at the signing on-site was DPP Global Advisor David Smallman, who worked with DPP Director of Innovation Noah Olson – who also attended virtually – to craft the agreement. Representing the Port of Blyth was PoB CEO Martin Lawlor.

“We look forward to working together with DPP to share best practices and explore new markets,” said Lawlor. “The signing of the MOU reflects a strong commitment to building a collaborative framework that prioritizes mutual benefits, innovation, and sustainable growth for both the Port of Blyth and DPP.”

North East England includes Northumberland, County Durham and Tyne and Wear. The Port of Blyth has a strategic central location on the east coast of the UK and is well placed for offshore wind-related opportunities in the North Sea and beyond.

DPP has a longstanding relationship with the region and the organizations that support its business community. DPP previously had signed an MOU with the former North East Local Enterprise Partnership in Newcastle Upon Tyne.

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