Texas has a growing additive manufacturing (3D printing) sector serving aerospace, defense, medical devices, automotive, and consumer products. 3D printing businesses — from service bureaus and contract manufacturers to companies developing new materials and printing technologies — can access federal R&D programs, tax credits, and Texas manufacturing incentives.
Federal Programs
- SBIR/STTR: DOD, DOE, NASA, and NSF fund additive manufacturing R&D. Topics include new materials, printing processes, quality assurance, and defense applications. SBIR guide.
- R&D tax credits: Companies developing new printing processes, materials, or applications qualify for federal R&D credits. R&D guide.
- DOD manufacturing programs: The Department of Defense funds additive manufacturing through ManTech and other programs for defense supply chain applications. DOD SBIR guide.
- America Makes: National additive manufacturing innovation institute providing research funding and industry partnerships
Texas Manufacturing Incentives
- Manufacturing sales tax exemption: 3D printing equipment used in production qualifies for the Texas manufacturing machinery exemption. Manufacturing exemptions guide.
- Freeport exemption: 3D printed products shipped out of state within 175 days qualify for property tax exemption
- Section 179 depreciation: 3D printing equipment qualifies for accelerated federal depreciation
- Skills Development Fund: Workforce training for additive manufacturing technicians. SDF for manufacturing.
Texas Additive Manufacturing Ecosystem
- Texas A&M Engineering Experiment Station: Additive manufacturing research and industry partnerships
- UT Austin Center for Additive Manufacturing: Research collaboration opportunities for additive manufacturing companies
- Aerospace and defense clusters: San Antonio, Fort Worth, and Houston have significant aerospace operations driving demand for additive manufacturing
Bottom Line
Texas 3D printing businesses can access SBIR/STTR grants for technology R&D, R&D tax credits for process innovation, and standard Texas manufacturing incentives including sales tax exemptions and Freeport property tax exemptions. The combination makes Texas a competitive location for additive manufacturing operations.
Not sure which programs may fit your 3D printing business? Our free screening report checks your business against 150+ verified programs — grants, tax credits, loans, and incentives — and shows you which ones may match. Start your free screening →