Topic: FabLab Startup: Setting up a non-profit from the beginning. Drew Nelson presenting.

fablabscarolinas.org Drew Nelson

Discussing both the FabLab and startup processes.

3D Digital Fabrication:
RepRap machine: It can make a copy of itself, costs about $1000
Makerbot: ~$800
Do it yourself Laser Cutter for about $2000
MIT is developing the Mantis Mini mill (cutter) for $150

Startup:
Beginning as a 1-person org (Drew) under the 501c3 of another org, until he makes a separate filing. Scaling up from a home operation to a public shop.

Have wordpress that needs help, google docs, and no business plan yet. Also needs money to grow, needs donors.

Started with a grant.

Recommended to start organizing with a CMS, based on what you will grow into in a year or so. Wordpress is easy but not for many users and functions, so Drupal would be something he won't outgrow (yet more complex to run). Drupal can also be hosted with DrupalGardens if you don't have your own server.

idealware.org has comparisons between many CMS platforms.