3D printers, 3D scanners, laser cutters and more – digital machinery is ushering in the next Industrial Revolution. Our goal is to make these technologies available to our region. To accomplish our goal, our team of the Faculty of Communication and Environment at Rhine-Waal University of Applied Sciences and the zdi Centre Kamp-Lintfort have decided to adapt an idea of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) that has since taken root in a world-wide network: the FabLab.

This ultramodern workshop puts state of the art fabrication technology at the fingertips of schools, students, entrepreneurs and businesses from around the region. The FabLab Kamp-Lintfort offers over 600 m² (6,400 ft²) of both space and machinery to make ideas into reality.

During our OpenLab events, we invite makers to participate in a community where they can implement ideas for a sustainable society. Together they engage in an exchange of ideas and knowledge because each maker is certain that digital fabrication empowers individuals to realise their ideas.

Our many other events are forums for presenting the possibilities of digital fabrication to specific audiences, showcasing cutting edge technology and discussing their relevance for the economy and society at-large. These events run the gamut from company trainings in conjunction with the Chambers of Industry and Commerce, Trades and Architects, to talks on internationally relevant issues with experts from the global FabLab Network (FabTalks). Our staff never cease to network with regional businesses and develop new qualification offers for industry and trades. At the same time, they are important contacts for teachers and schools, both of whom they support through the development of new teaching materials and training concepts.

As partners in the global FabLab Network, we also proudly offer the Fab Academy, a five month intensive course on digital fabrication. Directed by Neil Gershenfeld, MIT professor and founder of the FabLab movement, this internationally coordinated training programme pushes participants to their creative limits. Through the global network, Professor Gershenfeld’s are livestreamed from MIT to participating FabLabs around the world. In addition, FabLab Kamp-Lintfort is currently partnered with FabLabs in Aachen and Bottrop on the project 3D-Kompetenzzentrum Niederrhein, a centre of expertise for digital manufacturing in the Lower Rhine region.