Which projects does the Snapmaker fund support?

The fund backs open source projects for the U1 3D printer, including Klipper, OrcaSlicer, Moonraker, and color printing tools like Full Spectrum and Surface Color Stitch.

How can I participate in the Snapmaker competition?

Submit ideas to improve OrcaSlicer, U1 firmware, or accessories. Projects must be open source and published on GitHub. Applications are accepted via the fund's online form.

What prizes are available in the competition?

The competition features two stages with 20 prizes each. Winners retain full rights to their work. A separate model contest offers a $600 grand prize.

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Hardware

Snapmaker Launches $150K Fund to Support Open Source in 3D Printing

June 14, 2026

Photo: Tom's Hardware

Quick answer

Snapmaker has committed $150K to support open source developers building software and hardware for the U1 3D printer ecosystem.

Snapmaker has announced a $150K innovation fund to support open source developers and 3D printing enthusiasts. The initiative coincides with the brand's 10th anniversary and aims to advance the ecosystem of the U1 multi-functional 3D printer, including projects like Klipper, OrcaSlicer, and Moonraker.

The first $50K has already been distributed to developers whose tools, such as Full Spectrum and Surface Color Stitch, expand U1's capabilities. Full Spectrum, created by developer Ratdoux, enables color mixing in FDM printing and was integrated into Bambu Studio. Snapmaker invited Ratdoux to join the team to develop color printing while keeping the project open source.

The remaining $100K will be awarded through an open competition held in two phases: June to September and October to December. Participants can propose ideas to improve OrcaSlicer, U1 firmware, or accessories. All projects must be open source and published on GitHub. Winners retain full rights to their developments.

Concurrently, Snapmaker is running the "Make Something Colorful" model contest with a $600 grand prize. The company is also preparing to launch a public model library to further enrich the printer's ecosystem, which already includes printable materials.

Common questions

Which projects does the Snapmaker fund support?: The fund backs open source projects for the U1 3D printer, including Klipper, OrcaSlicer, Moonraker, and color printing tools like Full Spectrum and Surface Color Stitch.
How can I participate in the Snapmaker competition?: Submit ideas to improve OrcaSlicer, U1 firmware, or accessories. Projects must be open source and published on GitHub. Applications are accepted via the fund's online form.
What prizes are available in the competition?: The competition features two stages with 20 prizes each. Winners retain full rights to their work. A separate model contest offers a $600 grand prize.

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