One thing that Peter Thiel mentioned in Zero to One was that “startups operate on the principle that you need to work with others to get stuff done, but you also need to stay small enough that you actually can.” One thing that l was struggling with was manufacturing, so l decided to reach out and try to see if anyone could help. 15 different manufacturing companies would not even talk to me about getting my product into their factories. But on my 16th call, l met someone who will be able to help me get a step in the right direction. Peter Russo, the Director of growth and innovation at MassMEP, and he gave me amazing advice on what to do about my problems with my startup. He said, “Instead of trying to pay a company to make your product, l highly suggest to try and make it yourself. Professional prototypes can cost thousands while a 3D print is very cheap”. And after a few more minutes of brainstorming we were able to work on a solution to the problems with the 3D printer as well. Peter was able to supply me with a stiffer type of plastic for the printer which allows me to print a stiffer more functionable product. This business connection l created will help me far beyond this one project.