How do you turn a simple idea into a thriving physical product business?

 In this episode of the CADclass Podcast, Josh and Jake sit down with Robert Culpi, founder of Vantopia Vans, a company making modular flat-pack van conversion kits.

Robert shares how he started Vantopia Vans from a makerspace, using only a CNC machine, simple CAD renders, and a scrappy "fail fast, fail small" mentality.

We dive deep into how he scaled a pandemic-era startup, validated ideas without spending thousands, and built a profitable van conversion business inside a makerspace before moving into his own facility.

Topics include:

• How to start a hardware business from scratch
• Using Fusion 360 and Inventor for fast prototyping
• Why sales — not ideas — are what make or break a business
• The power of renders for testing product-market fit
• Why simple ideas often win ("invention of the obvious")
• How makers can think about entrepreneurship

If you're interested in makerspaces, CAD modeling, CNC machining, van life, or bootstrapping your business, this episode is a must-listen!

Learn more about VanTopia Vans: vantopiavans.com