Thanks to the decreasing cost of prototyping, it's more feasible for professional makers and first-time entrepreneurs to launch a hardware startup. But exactly how do you go about it? This book provides the roadmap and best practices you need for turning a product idea into a full-fledged business.Written by three experts from the field, The Hardware Startup takes you from idea validation to launch, complete with practical strategies for funding, market research, branding, prototyping, manufacturing, and distribution. Two dozen case studies of real-world startups illustrate possible successes and failures at every stage of the process.Validate your idea by learning the needs of potential usersDevelop branding, marketing, and sales strategies early onForm relationships with the right investment partnersPrototype early and often to ensure you're on the right pathUnderstand processes and pitfalls of manufacturing at scaleJumpstart your business with the help of an acceleratorLearn strategies for pricing, marketing, and distributionBe aware of the legal issues your new company may face