Make for Good 3D Printing Challenge Has Launched
The global initiative invites designers to create open-source assistive devices for people with disabilities.
Updated on Sept. 28, 2026 in Special Needs
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Makers Making Change and Bambu Lab have launched the Make for Good global 3D printing design challenge to source new assistive technology. Participants will develop devices based on 24 provided design briefs to support individuals with disabilities worldwide.
Why it matters
The challenge aims to expand the availability of affordable, open-source assistive technology that addresses the specific daily needs of people with disabilities. Successful designs will be added to global libraries for distribution via volunteer networks.
The challenge includes 24 distinct design briefs, with winning entries slated for distribution through volunteer networks across more than 70 countries. Grand prize winners will be awarded a Bambu Lab A1 3D printer for their contributions.
The players
Makers Making Change
This organization is a nonprofit initiative of Neil Squire that connects makers with people who have disabilities to create assistive devices.
Bambu Lab
Bambu Lab is a consumer tech company that produces high-performance 3D printers and hosts the MakerWorld platform.
Ayúdame3D
Based in Spain, this organization specializes in providing free upper-limb devices to those in need worldwide.
e-NABLE France
This group maintains a massive volunteer network dedicated to printing and fitting 3D-manufactured assistive hands for the public.
MakeGood
MakeGood is a United States-based organization focused on developing and distributing free, customized assistive technology.
The details
Participants have two months to submit designs through the MakerWorld platform, followed by a month of printing and testing by partner organizations. These open-source solutions support existing efforts, such as the network of over 450 volunteers managed by e-NABLE France and prosthetic centers in Syria serving up to 150 patients monthly.
Timeline
2016: Makers Making Change was launched by Neil Squire.
2017: Ayúdame3D began supplying upper-limb devices globally.
2020: PrintLab began its assistive technology challenge.
2021: MakeGood began producing free customized assistive devices.
December 2025: MakeGood introduced an open-source toddler mobility trainer.
Roadmap
This initiative accelerates the transition toward decentralized, open-source medical manufacturing that relies on individual makers rather than traditional corporate production. It mirrors the growth model established by the e-NABLE community network by leveraging global volunteer digital infrastructure.
Individuals and makers worldwide can participate in this challenge to directly influence the availability of assistive tools in their own communities. By contributing open-source designs, they help reduce the reliance on expensive proprietary devices for people with disabilities.
The takeaway
The rise of open-source design platforms allows global volunteers to fill gaps in traditional healthcare supply chains for assistive devices. Interested participants should review the 24 design briefs to identify which technical areas align with their 3D printing capabilities.
Further reading
Learn more about the latest innovations in Special Needs technology.
Source note: This article includes information reported by 3D Printing Industry.
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