30.2 C
Vientiane
Thursday, May 1, 2025
spot_img
Home Blog Page 258

From screen to society: latest iQIYI-presented films champion realism in cinematic storytelling

BEIJING, April 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — iQIYI, China’s leading online entertainment platform, announced the premieres of two reality-driven films – “Mumu” and “We Girls” – ahead of the Qingming Festival holiday period (also known as Tomb-Sweeping Day) in early April. Presented by iQIYI, the films delve into the often-overlooked lives of hearing-impaired families and marginalized women, offering a powerful testament to the company’s commitment to realism in content creation while combining commercial appeal with compelling storytelling and artistic merit.

The premieres reflect a broader shift in Chinese cinema toward realism. According to an industry report, in 2023, more than half of the top 20 films drew from real-life themes, contributing 32% of the total annual Chinese box office. Recent successes from iQIYI, such as “Trending Topic,” highlight the market’s appetite for socially grounded stories, and underscore iQIYI’s role in shaping this movement by developing films that not only reflect lived realities but also amplify voices that are often overlooked.

“Mumu” and “We Girls” bring realism to the big screen

Starring pop star and actor Yixing ZHANG, “Mumu” tells the story of a deaf father determined to build a better life for his daughter who unfortunately falls into a trap and becomes ensnared in a life of crime. The touching and heartfelt narrative is brought to life by authentic performances, including those of nearly 30 hearing-impaired actors. Directed by Mo SHA, the film is adapted from the tear-jerking short film of the same name, which earned him the best young director award on “Action!,” an iQIYI original variety show designed to empower emerging filmmakers. Early screenings have earned a 9.7 score on China’s top ticketing platform Taopiaopiao and generated more than RMB 10.8 million (USD 1.5 million) in pre-screening and pre-sales revenues as of March 30.

Directed by award-winning filmmaker Xiaogang FENG and starring Liying ZHAO, “We Girls” follows a mother who risks everything to purchase an expensive cochlear implant for her daughter and is subsequently sentenced to prison. There, she meets a group of other women who help each other reintegrate into society and start anew. With an all-female cast and themes of solidarity and survival, the film is already generating buzz, topping real-time watchlists on ticketing platforms like Maoyan and trending across Weibo, Baidu, and WeChat.

iQIYI’s diverse film offerings and strategic industry initiatives

These premieres build on iQIYI’s strong portfolio of realism-themed content, highlighted by the theatrical release of “Upstream,” a blockbuster portraying the struggles of a laid-off middle-aged programmer who turns to food delivery work. iQIYI has also expanded its premium film offerings through strategic partnerships with filmmakers, delivering commercial hits like “Break Through the Darkness,” “Hachiko,” and “Wolf Hiding” – all of which grossed over RMB 100 million (USD 13.8 million) and earned prestigious honors, including the Golden Rooster and Hong Kong Film Awards.

Over the years, iQIYI has made sustained contributions to the film industry through content creation, talent cultivation, and innovative business models. iQIYI’s Founder and CEO Yu GONG has previously shared the aspirations guiding the company’s continued support for filmmakers, including increasing copyright investments to generate sustainable returns, expanding filmmaker collaborations to diversify content, and carefully balancing artistic expression with commercial viability.

This vision is exemplified by initiatives like Golden Screenwriters’ Night, a pioneering event in China promoting young screenwriting talent and innovative content, and the Online Film Young Creators Project, which offers emerging filmmakers comprehensive support, including production funding, mentorship, and distribution assistance.

CONTACT: iQIYI Press, press@qiyi.com 

Film poster of "Mumu"
Film poster of “Mumu”

 

Still from "We Girls"
Still from “We Girls”

 

On-us Granted Patent for Smart E-Voucher Technology, Revolutionizing Credit Card Loyalty Landscape

HONG KONG and SINGAPORE and TAIPEI, April 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — On-us is proud to announce the granting of the patent for its Smart E-Voucher management system, solidifying its position as an innovator in digital incentives and customer engagement. This patent reinforces On-us’ commitment in revolutionizing loyalty programs with an intelligent, automated approach that elevates both customer engagement and marketing impact.

This patented technology serves as the backbone of On-us’ solution, centralizing intelligent voucher redemption, one-pass payment and real-time tracking via POS system integration.  This technology integrates voucher with payment in a seamless and instant manner, streamlining the entire voucher process from distribution to settlement while capturing last-mile data. Merchants benefit from a frictionless onboarding experience, eliminating manual tasks related to system set-up logistics, rewards verification, distribution, and employee training.  Customers enjoy a seamless redemption process powered by AI recommendations and tap-to-pay capabilities. With last-mile data captured, hyper-personalization becomes effortless, allowing businesses to leverage dynamic customer insights for more targeted engagement.

Visa and DBS adopted On-us’ Smart E-Voucher solution for their overseas travel campaign in December 2024, offering customers instant, premier F&B rewards based on real-time cross-border transactions verification. The adoption underscores the solution in reshaping the loyalty landscape through frictionless rewards that enhance customer engagement.

On-us Smart E-Voucher with Visa & DBS Overseas Travel Campaign
On-us Smart E-Voucher with Visa & DBS Overseas Travel Campaign

Dennis Shi, Founder and CEO of On-us, remarked, “Securing this patent is a defining moment for On-us, it validates our vision for intelligent, seamless digital incentives that create real value for both businesses and consumers. Seeing our patented technology power Visa & DBS’ successful travel campaign is just the beginning—we’re excited to continue shaping the future of rewards.”

Building on this success, On-us is now expanding its Smart E-Voucher capabilities with the launch of its new Lucky Draw solution, designed for events, employee engagement and brand activations. This one-stop solution enables businesses to create interactive engagement experiences that drive participation and excitement, transforming traditional giveaways into dynamic, engaging moments, helping brands and employers boost engagement effortlessly and instantly.

As On-us continues to scale its technology and expand its industry partnerships, the company invites businesses, financial institutions, and marketers to explore how its patented Smart E-Voucher and Lucky Draw solutions can optimize marketing budget, enhance targeted segmentation, and reshape the loyalty ecosystem — bringing smarter incentives and stronger connections for all.

About On-us

On-us is a global B2B2C personalized e-voucher incentive platform leveraging FinTech and behavioral AI, designed to enhance consumer loyalty engagement and unlock maximum value for marketers, merchants and customers. Through omni-channel APIs and data-driven campaigns, we empower businesses to strengthen customer engagement while maximizing ROI. Trusted by financial services providers, people management teams, blue-chip property developers, non-profit organizations, and SMEs, our platform delivers sustainable sales growth and seamless integration, driving success across industries.

For more information, please visit: https://www.on-us.com/about or follow our Linkedin for latest updates.

Gevme Appoints Michael Mazza as Chief Growth Officer to Accelerate Global Expansion

SINGAPORE, April 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Gevme, a leading event technology platform, today announced the appointment of Michael Mazza as Chief Growth Officer. This strategic hire reinforces Gevme’s commitment to accelerating its expansion across Asia-Pacific and strengthening its global footprint.

With over 25 years of entrepreneurial experience spanning fintech, technology, and business development, Mazza brings a wealth of expertise in scaling businesses across emerging markets. In his new role, he will spearhead Gevme’s growth initiatives, with an initial focus on deepening the company’s presence in the APAC region before expanding efforts in Europe and North America.

“Michael’s proven track record in building strategic partnerships and driving business expansion across diverse markets makes him the ideal leader to accelerate our growth trajectory,” said Daniel Tjan, Managing Director at Gevme. “His entrepreneurial mindset and deep understanding of the Asia-Pacific region will be invaluable as we strengthen our position as the premier event technology platform globally.”

Prior to joining Gevme, Mazza served as a Partner at Aguamazza, where he forged strategic alliances with promising startups across India, Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. His extensive experience includes board positions at multiple technology companies, including Railpays and Omenetech, where he contributed to the development of innovative digital banking and payment solutions. Mazza also served as Senior Business Development Manager for Global Processing Services (GPS), where he expanded the company’s presence and partnerships throughout the Asia-Pacific region.

“I’m thrilled to join Gevme at such a pivotal moment in its growth journey,” said Mazza. “The events industry continues to evolve rapidly, and Gevme is uniquely positioned to lead this transformation with its innovative technology solutions. I look forward to leveraging my experience to drive strategic growth initiatives and forge powerful partnerships that will expand our reach across APAC and beyond.”

Mazza’s appointment comes as Gevme continues to invest in enhancing its platform capabilities and expanding its market presence. The company has seen significant growth in recent years, establishing itself as a trusted partner for organizations seeking to create impactful event experiences.

About Gevme

Gevme is a leading event technology platform that empowers organizations to create, manage, and optimize exceptional event experiences. With a comprehensive suite of tools and solutions, Gevme enables businesses to seamlessly execute virtual, hybrid, and in-person events that drive meaningful engagement and measurable results.Trusted by leading brands and organizations worldwide, Gevme continues to innovate at the forefront of the event technology landscape.

Vietnam Restaurant Week returns on 4.4 with over 100+ limited set menu deals

HO CHI MINH CITY, Vietnam, April 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Following the successful debut of Vietnam Restaurant Week by DiningCity Asia last year, the eagerly awaited culinary celebration returns this April with its Spring Edition 2025.

Back for Spring, and here to stay.

After a thrilling first edition featuring hundreds of restaurant deals across Vietnam, DiningCity is set to dazzle once more with new spots and deals to try. Not only does this mark its return for a second edition, DiningCity has also announced plans to organize the event twice a year, every Spring and Autumn moving forward.

Explore new restaurants at unbeatable prices.

From casual eateries to media darlings and Michelin-awarded restaurants, Restaurant Week will feature the hottest dining spots in Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, and Hanoi, each showcasing their signature dishes through curated 3-course set menus.

Over the years, DiningCity’s Restaurant Week has grown into a much-anticipated event for diners around the world. With a line-up of Western, Asian, Fusion, and Casual to Fine-dining restaurants, each offering special 3-course lunch and dinner set menus, this 6-week event presents hungry diners a unique chance to try new spots or revisit local favourites at the best prices.


How to make a booking?

Vietnam Restaurant Week is set to kick off on Friday, April 4th, 2025, with booking opening on Thursday, April 3rd at 10:00 AM sharp. 

With limited seats available for each deal, mark your calendars to book the best restaurants! Reservations can only be made through www.restaurantweek.vn or DiningCity mobile app.

Restaurant week deals will only be available to guests who make a booking online.

When is Vietnam Restaurant Week?
Dining period from: April 4-27, 2025
Winners Edition from: May 2-18, 2025

3-Course Set Menu Prices:
Category Elite: Variable pricing. See www.restaurantweek.vn
Category A: VND295,000 for lunch and VND650,000 for dinner
Category B: VND195,000 for lunch and VND395,000 for dinner
Category C: VND150,000 for lunch and VND195,000 for dinner

About DiningCity

DiningCity is a restaurant booking platform to discover new restaurants – from casual eateries to media darlings and award-winning restaurants. Through its platform, diners can check for table availability and make instant reservations at the best restaurants across Vietnam and beyond. The company is renowned for its offering of an array of deals, special offers, dining programs, and organising large-scale culinary events.

Myanmar Junta Declares Ceasefire as Quake Survivors Plead for Aid

Myanmar Junta Declares Ceasefire as Quake Survivors Plead for Aid
An elderly earthquake survivor rests on an outdoor bed in the compound of a hospital in Sagaing on April 2, 2025, five days after a major earthquake struck central Myanmar. (Photo by Sai Aung MAIN / AFP)

AFP – On 2 April, Myanmar’s junta announced a temporary ceasefire as the death toll from a devastating earthquake rose and desperate survivors pleaded for more help amid frantic scenes of aid distribution.

Trump’s New Reciprocal Tariffs Hit Laos, ASEAN Hard, Threatening Key Exports

More than 4,000 Lao nationals are among the over 1.4 million individuals in the United States with final deportation orders but not currently detained
US President Donald Trump speaks to journalists in the Oval Office of the White House in Washington, DC, on January 30, 2025. (Photo by ROBERTO SCHMIDT / AFP)

Laos is among the countries most affected by the United States’ recent announcement of new reciprocal tariffs, which President Donald Trump unveiled on 2 April. This decision could have a severe impact on Laos’ economy and threaten its growing trade relationship with the U.S, according to economic experts.

Under President Trump’s “Liberation Day” tariff policy, imports from Laos will face both a universal tariff and an additional reciprocal tariff.

Starting 5 April, a 10 percent universal tariff will be applied to all imports into the United States.

Additionally, a 48 percent reciprocal tariff will take effect on 9 April, specifically targeting imports from Laos. This combined approach will result in a total tariff of 58 percent on Lao imports, comprising the 10 percent universal tariff and the 48 percent reciprocal tariff. However, the White House calculates 95 percent as the total barrier to trade.

President Trump determined the 95 percent tariff rate by calculating each country’s trade deficit with the U.S. as a percentage of total U.S. imports from that country, incorporating both monetary tariffs and non-monetary trade barriers. He then imposed reciprocal tariffs at half these calculated rates, positioning them as a “kind” response to trade disparities.

This marks a shift that could spell new challenges for Laos’s agricultural, textile, and light manufacturing sectors, which have relied on the U.S. as a growing export market.

For years, Laos has worked to expand its export base, with the U.S. emerging as a key trading partner. The country’s main exports to the U.S. include footwear, wood furniture, textiles, and electronics components. However, with the newly imposed tariff rates, Lao businesses might face a significant drop in orders from American buyers.

Lao coffee, one of the country’s signature exports, could also take a significant hit. The United States has been a growing consumer of high-quality Lao coffee, but the added cost from tariffs could push buyers toward alternative suppliers such as Colombia.

Wider ASEAN Impact: Cambodia, Vietnam, and Thailand Also Hit

Laos is not alone in facing severe economic consequences from Trump’s new tariffs. Other ASEAN nations have also been hit hard, with Cambodia facing a 49 percent tariff, Vietnam 46 percent, and Thailand 36 percent.

Cambodia, which heavily relies on textile and footwear exports to the U.S., now faces the highest tariff in ASEAN. Analysts predict job losses in the garment sector and potential factory closures.

Vietnam, with a 46 percent tariff, may see declining demand for its key exports like electronics, furniture, and garments. The country had been one of the biggest beneficiaries of past U.S.-China trade tensions, but this tariff now threatens its competitive edge.

Thailand, facing a 36 percent tariff, may see its auto parts, electronics, and seafood exports to the U.S. take a hit. Thai business leaders are calling for government intervention to negotiate better terms.

Experts warn that the collective impact of these tariffs on ASEAN economies could disrupt regional supply chains and slow down investment in manufacturing hubs that cater to U.S. markets.

Siwage Dharma Negara, a senior fellow at the ISEAS-Yusof Ishak Institute in Singapore, explained to The Guardian that recent tariffs imposed on Southeast Asian nations are primarily aimed at undermining China.

He noted that the administration likely believes these tariffs will impact Chinese investments in countries such as Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, and Indonesia, which could in turn affect Chinese exports and the broader economy.

However, the consequences for these Southeast Asian countries could be severe, as Chinese investments in the region have been crucial in generating jobs and export revenue.

Laos may now be forced to look toward regional trade partners, particularly China, which has already been increasing its influence in Laos through major infrastructure projects, including the Laos-China Railway.

The tariff hike is part of Trump’s broader economic agenda, which aims to reduce the U.S. trade deficit and encourage domestic production. However, for smaller economies like Laos, the policy presents a major setback. Laos had hoped to leverage trade agreements and preferential tariffs to boost its economy, but these new policies threaten to unravel years of progress.

Lao Businesses, Government Comment

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which make up the backbone of Laos’s economy, are particularly vulnerable. Many of these businesses have invested in expanding their operations to meet U.S. demand. Now, with higher tariffs reducing their competitiveness, they may face further challenges.

The Lao government has yet to issue an official response to Trump’s tariff policy, but trade officials have indicated they are closely monitoring the situation. 

Meanwhile, ASEAN leaders are expected to hold emergency discussions on a collective response to the tariffs, as the region faces potential economic fallout. The tariffs are already causing ripples in Asian markets, with stock prices of export-reliant firms tumbling following Trump’s announcement.

Trinasolar and Lodestone Power Up Newest Agrivoltaics Solar Project in New Zealand

Like a ‘well-oiled machine:’ Partnership delivers third agrivoltaics project, supporting dual use of land for solar energy generation and future sheep grazing in north island location

AUCKLAND, New Zealand, April 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Trinasolar, a global smart photovoltaic (PV) and energy storage solutions provider, has partnered with Lodestone Energy to bring Te Herenga o Te Rā, one of New Zealand’s latest and largest agrivoltaics farm, into operation this year. Situated along the border of the Waiotahe River in the Ōpōtiki District, the converted dairy farm will deliver clean renewable energy to the region while preserving the land’s agricultural value for sheep grazing under the modules.

Lodestone Energy's Latest Agrivoltaics Solar Farm in New Zealand, featuring Trinasolar's Vertex N modules
Lodestone Energy’s Latest Agrivoltaics Solar Farm in New Zealand, featuring Trinasolar’s Vertex N modules

Construction of the 71,000+ module utility-scale solar farm began in December 2023 and achieved first generation in December 2024, with the project’s construction progressing faster than anticipated. This was due, in part, to the ongoing partnership between module supplier, Trinasolar and Lodestone. As the third agrivoltaics project developed together, ongoing collaboration enabled the refinement of construction processes. Incremental improvements in small and repetitive installation tasks translated to large efficiencies at scale—significantly accelerating the construction schedule. Once fully operational, the 42MWp farm will generate 69 GWh of clean energy annually, enough to power nearly 10,000 homes, and is the first solar project in New Zealand to feed directly into the grid.

Agrivoltaics: Energy and Agriculture Side-by-Side

Like Lodestone’s other farms, Te Herenga o Te Rā, plans to integrate sheep grazing beneath elevated solar modules, allowing livestock and renewable energy production to coexist. The elevated panelling design provides shade for sheep during warmer months, reducing heat stress, while their natural grazing controls grass growth under the modules—reducing maintenance costs, herbicide use, and machinery emissions.

Connor Dent, grazing lessee and pastoralist of Lodestone’s first agrivoltaics project, Kohirā, has found the experience overwhelmingly positive,

“As a civil engineer, I was directly involved in constructing Lodestone’s first solar farm, Kohirā, which gave me a unique perspective on the project from the ground up. Through this work, I became aware of the opportunity to trial grazing under the panels and was keen to take it on,” he said.

“Since then, I’ve seen firsthand the benefits of agrivoltaics for both the land and livestock. The panels provide shelter, which has improved lamb survival rates, and we’ve noticed better grass retention through dry periods. There are some challenges, like managing fertiliser application and working the dogs when the panels are tilted, but overall, it’s been a really positive experience. Seeing the project through from construction, to now farming on the land has been incredibly rewarding.”

Strong Partnerships Driving Success

This project builds on the longstanding partnership between Lodestone Energy and Trinasolar, which has now seen nearly 200,000 Trinasolar modules deployed across Lodestone’s three operational solar farms in Kaitaia, Edgecumbe and the latest in Waitaohe.

Edison Zhou, Head of Trinasolar Australia & New Zealand, commented:

“We are proud to continue our strong partnership with Lodestone, delivering high-performance solar solutions for New Zealand’s growing renewable energy sector. Te Herenga o Te Rā is a standout example of how solar and agriculture can work together seamlessly, and we look forward to supporting more innovative projects in this space.

Globally, interest in agrivoltaics is accelerating, and Lodestone is at the forefront of delivering large-scale, dual-use projects. Their work is setting a benchmark for agrivoltaics initiatives worldwide, and we’re excited to be part of their journey.”

Gary Holden, Managing Director, Lodestone Energy, recognises the value of strong partners, “Ultimately, Trinasolar’s Vertex N modules were the natural choice, offering superior efficiency and power. When delivering projects at scale, this efficiency becomes even more critical, ensuring we maximise energy output while maintaining reliability. The n-type i-TOPCon technology also enhances longevity, aligning with our commitment to building durable, high-performing solar farms.

With Te Herenga o Te Rā, our largest solar farm yet, we’ve continued to strengthen our partnerships. Trinasolar’s high-quality modules, robust supply chain, and on-ground support have been instrumental in making this project a success—our third collaboration with them.

With these three projects at full generation, we can power around 25,000 Kiwi homes each year,” Holden said.

To complete the project, Lodestone Energy plans to reinstate the necessary infrastructure to support livestock, including new yards and fencing, before welcoming the next grazing lessee to Te Herenga o Te Rā later this year.

Together with Lodestone Energy, Trinasolar is contributing to New Zealand’s zero-carbon targets while setting global standards for agrivoltaics.

How to Start a CNC Business from Scratch – PR (Blue Elephant CNC)

JINAN, China, April 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — How to Start a CNC Business from Scratch

Starting a CNC business can seem like a big step—especially for those who have the skills, the contacts, and maybe even the tools, but no roadmap. Many aspiring entrepreneurs get stuck on questions like: How profitable is CNC machining? How much does it cost to get started? Where do the first customers come from?

To help answer those questions, Blue Elephant CNC—a global CNC machine manufacturer with years of industry experience—has developed a comprehensive guide. It’s designed to help machine dealers, repair specialists, or anyone with machining knowledge turn their capabilities into a profitable CNC venture.

“Many of our clients had everything in place except a clear plan,” says Jack Zhang, founder of Blue Elephant CNC. “They had experience, contacts, even workshop space—but they didn’t know how to start. That’s what this guide solves.”

Whether you’re looking to offer CNC services as part of an existing operation or you’re starting from scratch, this roadmap outlines the real steps involved. It’s not theory—it’s what Blue Elephant CNC has seen work for actual clients. It covers everything from setting up a workshop to winning your first contracts.

Step 1: Identify Your Niche

Trying to serve every market at once can lead to thin margins and operational chaos. Blue Elephant CNC encourages new businesses to focus their efforts by choosing a specific service model:

  • Custom part production for dealers: If you’re connected to dealerships, offer quick-turn, low-volume replacement parts. These customers often require high reliability and fast delivery. Building on your current distribution relationships allows for faster customer acquisition and higher repeat orders.
  • Rapid prototyping for engineers: Cater to startups that need fast, precise prototypes for testing and development. Many engineers need 1-5 sample pieces, not full runs. If you can meet tight deadlines and communicate clearly, you’ll win loyal clients in R&D-heavy industries.
  • CNC repair and upgrades: Offer servicing and retrofitting for shops using older equipment. Many small operations can’t afford new machines and need affordable upkeep options. This niche is in high demand—especially in industrial zones with aging infrastructure.
  • Machine rental or leasing: Ideal in regions with high demand but limited access to equipment. This can include short-term or project-based equipment access. It requires fewer staff but a strong maintenance and scheduling process.
  • Engraving, marking, or branding: Appeals to both industrial clients and consumers needing serialized or branded parts. These are typically small-batch, repeatable jobs. Adding creative services increases your average order size and customer stickiness.

Specializing allows you to work more efficiently and market more clearly. Blue Elephant CNC advises using your current connections and technical strengths to pick a profitable starting point.

Step 2: Create a Business Plan

A well-structured business plan helps you make smarter decisions and attract funding. It’s not just a formality—it’s the foundation for every major decision you’ll make. Blue Elephant CNC recommends every shop, no matter how small, create a clear business plan covering:

  • Defined services: Know what you’ll offer and what materials you’ll focus on. Clear offerings avoid confusion and help customers understand your value. It also simplifies machine and tooling decisions.
  • Target customers: Be clear about who you’re serving. Focus on specific industries or business types that need your expertise. Research 10–20 real businesses you could pitch in your first 3 months.
  • Your edge: Faster delivery? Lower cost? Precision finishes? Think about what differentiates your business. Blue Elephant CNC often helps clients position their offering for contract success.
  • Startup and ongoing costs: Cover everything from tools to insurance, raw materials, utilities, and software subscriptions. Use actual supplier quotes wherever possible.
  • Pricing strategy: Account for machine time, material waste, labor, and utilities. Don’t forget to include markup for profit. Run a few job simulations to test pricing.
  • Growth vision: How will you scale? Through automation, staff expansion, new services? What milestones will you track in your first year?

Blue Elephant CNC has helped many clients develop realistic business plans that evolve as they grow. Starting small with a clear path makes future investments easier.

Step 3: Calculate Startup Costs

Startup costs vary, but here are the main categories:

  • CNC Machines: $10,000–$100,000+. Blue Elephant CNC provides starter packages and financing options. Consider machine versatility, training support, and warranty terms.
  • Software: $2,000–$10,000 for design and CAM tools. CAD/CAM software is essential for precision and speed. Include recurring licensing fees.
  • Workshop Setup: Power upgrades, benches, dust collection—$5,000–$50,000. Consider air compressors, lighting, and proper safety systems.
  • Raw Materials: $5,000–$15,000 depending on your focus. Buy enough to fulfill your first 5–10 orders.
  • Licensing & Insurance: Around $500–$3,000. Check zoning laws, permits, and required insurance in your region.
  • Marketing: Websites and branding from $2,000+. A simple site with testimonials and service pages is enough to start.

Blue Elephant CNC suggests building a detailed spreadsheet of both upfront and monthly costs. Include tooling, maintenance, and shipping to avoid surprises. They often work with clients to plan financing and capital allocation.

Step 4: Register Your Business

Before launching, get legally registered:

  • Choose a structure: LLCs are often best for CNC shops. They protect personal assets and are tax-efficient. If you plan to raise funds or sell equity later, consider an S-Corp.
  • Register your name: Make it industry-relevant and unique. A professional name builds trust. Check domain availability if you plan to market online.
  • Apply for an EIN: Needed for banking and payroll.
  • Secure licenses and permits: Required in many industrial zones. Check local zoning and business regulations. Some areas require specific environmental approvals.
  • Open a separate bank account: Keep personal and business funds apart.

Blue Elephant CNC emphasizes the importance of staying compliant with OSHA, EPA, or ISO standards if your work falls under regulated industries. Missing paperwork can delay machine installation and delay revenue.

Step 5: Purchase Machines and Tools

Your main investment should align with your services:

  • Mills: For metal or plastic part production. These are the most common machines in CNC shops.
  • Lathes: Best for cylindrical parts. Many repair and automotive jobs require them.
  • Routers: Great for wood, foam, and plastic. Used in signage, cabinetry, and decor.
  • Plasma Cutters: Ideal for sheet metal cutting. Often used in HVAC or metal fabrication.
  • 5-Axis Machines: For high-precision or complex jobs. Aerospace and medical fields demand them.

Blue Elephant CNC provides tailored recommendations based on client needs. Also invest in:

  • Tooling and holders: These determine your cut quality and speed.
  • Workholding gear: Fixtures and clamps secure parts during machining.
  • Inspection tools: Calipers, micrometers, and gauges.
  • Dust collection systems: Vital for health and equipment longevity.

Don’t overspend early. Start with essential tools and scale as orders grow.

Step 6: Source Raw Materials

Your choice of raw materials directly impacts part quality, machining speed, and pricing. Blue Elephant CNC recommends beginning with a focused inventory of core materials suited to your niche.

Common starting points include:

  • Aluminum or steel: Ideal for structural, mechanical, and automotive components.
  • Plastics: Useful for lightweight parts, electronics housings, or rapid prototyping.
  • Wood or MDF: Common for signage, cabinetry, and decorative projects when using CNC routers.

Reliable sourcing is just as important as material selection. Look for:

  • Local distributors: Offer faster turnaround and easier communication.
  • Online marketplaces: Provide wider selection and user reviews for comparison.
  • Direct from mills: Cost-effective for large orders, though usually with high minimums.

To reduce delays and quality issues, Blue Elephant CNC suggests building relationships with at least two trusted suppliers. Ask about lead times, bulk pricing, delivery reliability, and whether they provide test samples or material certifications for compliance-heavy industries.

Step 7: Learn CNC Programming & Techniques

Even the most advanced CNC machines need skilled operators to deliver quality results. Blue Elephant CNC emphasizes that strong technical knowledge is essential for running an efficient and profitable shop.

Key areas to focus on include:

  • G-code and M-code basics: These programming languages control movement, tool changes, and operations. Understanding how to read and adjust code can help troubleshoot issues and improve accuracy.
  • CAM software operation: Learning how to set up, simulate, and generate toolpaths using software like Fusion 360 or Mastercam is crucial for smooth production.
  • Feeds and speeds per material: Setting the correct parameters prevents tool wear, improves part quality, and boosts efficiency.
  • Tool selection and maintenance: Using the right tools—and knowing when to replace them—ensures consistency and reduces downtime.
  • Fixturing best practices: Proper workholding prevents vibration and errors during machining.

Blue Elephant CNC offers guidance on software selection and connects clients to training resources. Whether you’re self-learning or hiring a skilled operator, mastering these areas is key to long-term success.

Step 8: Set Up Your Workshop

A well-organized workshop can significantly boost productivity and reduce errors. Blue Elephant CNC advises business owners to prioritize layout and workflow early in the setup process.

Key setup tips include:

  • Logical material flow: Arrange stations so materials move smoothly from delivery → machining → inspection → packaging.
  • Safe spacing: Leave enough room between machines and walkways to allow easy movement and prevent accidents.
  • Clean environment: Dust and chip control is essential for both machine health and worker safety—install proper dust collection or ventilation systems.
  • Compliance: Ensure your facility supports electrical loads for CNC machines, has designated PPE zones, and meets safety regulations.

Other smart layout considerations:

  • Set up dedicated storage for raw materials and finished parts to avoid clutter and confusion.
  • Keep inspection tools near machining areas to speed up quality checks.
  • Use visual boards or workflow charts to monitor active jobs and deadlines.

Even small spaces can operate efficiently when thoughtfully arranged. Blue Elephant CNC works closely with new shops to design productive, scalable layouts from day one.

Step 9: Build a Marketing Strategy

Many CNC businesses struggle because they wait for clients to come. Blue Elephant CNC recommends starting with:

  • Website: List services and upload sample parts.
  • Google My Business: Helps nearby clients find you.
  • Social media: Show your capabilities visually.
  • Direct outreach: Email or call businesses in your target industry.

Other tactics include:

  • Publishing articles or case studies about your work.
  • Offering workshops or free consultations for new clients.
  • Asking for Google and LinkedIn reviews from satisfied customers.

Referral incentives, testimonials, and industry networking can also help build your brand. Blue Elephant CNC has seen small shops grow fast by combining digital and relationship-based outreach.

Step 10: Scale Your CNC Business

Once your CNC business is stable and generating consistent work, it’s time to think about growth. Scaling effectively means increasing output without compromising quality.

Ways to scale include:

  • Adding machines or shifts: More capacity allows you to take on larger orders or reduce lead times.
  • Hiring machinists or designers: Skilled staff help handle increased workload and bring in new capabilities.
  • Automating workflows: Implement automation tools like tool changers or part loaders to save time and reduce manual steps.
  • Expanding services: Offering laser engraving, 5-axis machining, or specialty finishes can help you move upmarket and attract higher-value clients.

Blue Elephant CNC recommends using operational data to guide decisions. Analyze which services, machines, or clients generate the most profit—and prioritize scaling those areas.

As your shop evolves, Blue Elephant CNC offers ongoing support, advanced equipment options, and strategic insight to help you scale sustainably while staying competitive.

Conclusion: Start With Confidence

With clear steps and the right support, starting a CNC business doesn’t have to be risky. Blue Elephant CNC has helped businesses around the world move from side projects to full-time production shops. With experience-backed guidance and reliable equipment, they’re here to help you turn your skills into a business.

To learn more or speak with a specialist, contact the Blue Elephant CNC team today:

Blue Elephant CNC
Website: www.elephant-cnc.com
Email: manager@elephant-cnc.com 
Phone: +86 18668991371