Beyond the Sketch: Prototyping 101

Join NextCorps and BZDesign for an in-person event focused on turning ideas into functional prototypes. Through founder stories and practical insight, we'll explore how to move from sketch to something you can test, refine, and build upon.

Specifically for startups and makers, this session will unpack how to navigate early design decisions, avoid common pitfalls, and leverage local resources as you move from concept to build. You’ll gain real-world perspective on how thoughtful prototyping can accelerate product development, strengthen fundraising conversations, and prepare you for manufacturing.

Speakers include:

• Phlotonics, a Rochester-based photonic biosensing company
• Prolivio, creators of KHIO, a hyper-cooling headband for migraine relief
• BZDesign, the industrial design firm that operates the NextCorps Fabrication Lab

Wrap up with a tour of the Fab Lab, then stick around to connect with fellow founders at Startup Drinks, beginning at 5:30 PM (separate registration required).

Dan Steiner
Co-Founder & CTO, Phlotonics

Benjamin Zombek
President, BZDesign, Inc.

Adam Baker
Co-Founder, Prolivio

Mike Riedlinger
Managing Director of Technology Commercialization, NextCorps

Know what’s Happening Next — before everyone else does.

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Host or Publisher NextCorps