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This video gives an overview of 13 open source hardware companies making $1 million a year or more. This little market is booming right under our noses, and during a recession.

For the uninitiated, open source hardware applies principles of free and open source software (FOSS) to making electronic devices and machines. Open hardware designers share their schematics and operating software freely so that anyone can use their work in new works. Open hardware companies provide tools and components for designers to use.

Basically, this comprises the foundation of an ecosystem that enables just about anyone to build a vast number of things. This is resulting in an explosion of creativity as people are designing everything from open source tractors, to video game consoles, to 3D printers. That's just scratching the surface.

Now it seems that the long tail of the Internet applies to hardware. The cost to make hardware is now so low that many more hardware niches will come into existence. And many more niches will be feasible market opportunities.

One of my favorite companies of the 13 profiled is Bug Labs, which has turned the complicated process of making electronic devices into something akin to playing with Legos. 

Thanks to Boing Boing for the heads up on the video. Teaser image courtesy of Bug Labs

Neal Gorenflo

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Neal Gorenflo | |

Neal Gorenflo is the co-founder and board president of Shareable, an award-winning nonprofit news, action network, and consultancy for the sharing transformation. An epiphany in 2004 inspired Neal to


Things I share: Time with friends and family, stories, laughs, books, tools, ideas, nature, resources, passions, my network.