Learn to Invent 4 - Customer Research & Funding

This session is all about understanding your audience and securing the resources you need to bring your invention to market. First, we’ll dive into customer research methods—how to identify your target audience, understand their pain points, and validate your invention’s value through surveys, focus groups, and one-on-one interviews. You’ll learn how to gather actionable feedback that can refine your product and increase its chances of success.

Next, we’ll explore funding strategies, including self-funding, crowdfunding platforms (like Kickstarter or Indiegogo), grants, loans, and attracting investors. You’ll gain insights into creating a compelling pitch that resonates with funders and learn how to demonstrate your product’s market potential. By the end of this session, you’ll have a deeper understanding of your customers, a clearer path to funding, and the tools to move your invention to the next stage.

This session is part 4 of 5 in the Vision 2 Invention series, a comprehensive program designed to guide you through the entire process of bringing an idea to life. From ideation to scaling and selling your product, each session builds on the last to ensure you have the tools and knowledge needed for success. Join us for the full series to maximize your invention’s potential!

• Ideation & Focus:
• Rapid Prototyping:
• Protect Your Idea:
• Customer Research & Funding:
• Manufacturing, Sales, & Exit Strategies:

About Your Presenter: Craig Rabin
Craig Rabin is an experienced inventor, entrepreneur, and educator dedicated to helping others bring their ideas to life. Best known for launching The Airhook—a successful travel accessory that has sold in over 86 countries and been featured in 100+ publications—Craig brings real-world experience and a proven process to every step of the invention journey.

With a passion for teaching and inspiring others, Craig has worked with students and professionals alike, guiding them through the challenges of ideation, prototyping, and launching products. His hands-on approach ensures participants not only gain valuable knowledge but also leave each session with actionable steps toward their goals.

Craig believes that in-person events create unmatched opportunities for collaboration, feedback, and connection. By working directly with local participants, these sessions foster stronger ties to the community and a shared spirit of innovation. Whether you’re just starting with an idea or looking to refine and scale, Craig’s engaging and interactive teaching style will help you take the next step with confidence!

Protect Your Idea Reminder:As you brainstorm and refine your invention, it’s crucial to keep your idea safe. Avoid sharing specific details unless you have an NDA (Non-Disclosure Agreement) in place or have taken the necessary steps to file for a patent. Protecting your work early ensures your idea remains yours.

Host or Publisher North End Makers