California-based 3D printer manufacturer Robo has announced the purchase of an educational 3D printing platform, MyStemKits. The company in question owns the biggest online library of STEM curriculums incorporating 3D printable kits for K-12 schools. The acquisition is a clear sign that Robo are looking to get into the burgeoning educational 3D printer field.
As per agreement, Robo will acquire the company for $2 million dollars. Robo are due to pay $1.2 million in cash while making up the difference with ordinary shares. Additionally, Robo will pay out a 5% royalty on all MyStemKits license revenue for a 5-year period. The company is planning to place public shares on the market in an effort to raise 3.25 million dollars. As such, it’s putting up 130,000 shares for grabs.
Robo’s CEO, Ryan Legudi, says, “The promise of 3D printing in education has yet to be fulfilled. For teachers we have spoken to, it is still complicated to incorporate 3D printing effectively into the classroom with the current offerings. With our Robo 3D printers combined with MyStemKits 240+ turn-key 3D printable lessons, professional development and training for educators, we know that we have the key that will give educators the opportunity to be successful with 3D printing in the classroom.”
MyStemKits & Educational 3D Printing
MyStemKits is a very popular program, so it’s not at all surprising Robo wanted to acquire it. Robo has also had its hands in the educational 3D printer market, making this a logical step to take. MyStemKits’ lesson plans were accessible to over 2,000 teachers in the US. Teachers have even given it high regards, touting it with a 97% success rating among educators in Florida. Furthermore, all of MyStemKits’ developed all its programs to meet Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) and Common Core State Standards (CCSS).
“We have worked hard to make 3D printing plug-n-play, through an easy to use technical experience, backed by exceptional content and curriculum. I’m excited that the company is poised to reach its full potential as a part of the Robo family.”said Laron Walker, founder of MyStemKits.
While the advent of educational programs featuring 3D printing is still new, the potential is clear. Many companies, like Stratasys and LeapFrog, are looking to the next generation of designers. With the growth of additive manufacturing, there need to be equal educational opportunities. As a result, a lot of companies are stepping in to pick up the slack. It appears Robo also agrees with this same sentiment.