Why it Matters

This marks Fabric8Labs Inc.‘s first foray into federal lobbying. The advanced manufacturing company retained Smith Garson in October 2025 to secure R&D funding for its novel electrochemical additive manufacturing technology. The timing aligns with unprecedented bipartisan congressional support for domestic manufacturing and defense supply chain resilience.

By the Numbers

Lobbying Team: Three lobbyists from Smith Garson handle the account. Benjamin Doyle Odendahl brings the most relevant experience, having lobbied for technology and defense clients. Brett Garson specializes in federal appropriations and grant advocacy.

Spending History: Zero. This is Fabric8Labs’ inaugural lobbying registration.

Issue Focus: R&D funding for additive manufacturing under defense and manufacturing issue codes.

Broader Context

Congress is demonstrating significant interest in strengthening U.S. domestic manufacturing capabilities. Multiple hearings have highlighted how 3D printing can “dramatically reduce costs and expedite production schedules” for defense acquisition. The Senate Armed Services Committee and House Appropriations Military Construction Subcommittee have both examined additive manufacturing applications. A House Small Business Committee hearing explored how DoD and Department of Energy grants support innovative manufacturing technologies.

The Agenda

Fabric8Labs seeks federal R&D funding for its proprietary Electrochemical Additive Manufacturing (ECAM) process. The technology creates high-resolution metal parts without heat, powders, or lasers. The company targets defense, electronics, medical devices, and aerospace applications. Congress is considering several relevant bills, including the Future of Defense Manufacturing Act of 2025, which would prohibit DoD from using foreign additive manufacturing systems.

Competitive Landscape

Fabric8Labs enters a crowded field. Stratasys Ltd. consistently spends $80,000 quarterly on 3D printing and DoD appropriations lobbying. Emerging competitors include Seurat Technologies Inc. and Beehive Industries LLC. Materials companies like Carpenter Technology Corp. also lobby on manufacturing and defense industrial base issues.

Between The Lines

Key lawmakers are championing advanced manufacturing investments. Rep. Marcy Kaptur celebrated NSF research awards for advanced 3D printing. Sen. Gary Peters has passed bipartisan legislation to strengthen U.S. manufacturing policy. Rep. Haley Stevens has promoted 3D printing to solve supply chain issues. The Defense Technology Hubs Act of 2025 would establish regional innovation hubs.

The Bottom Line

Fabric8Labs is well-positioned to capitalize on congressional enthusiasm for domestic manufacturing innovation. Its unique non-thermal process differentiates it from traditional 3D printing competitors. Smith Garson’s appropriations expertise provides immediate credibility in navigating federal funding opportunities.

All data used in this article came from Legis1. Request a demo to learn more!