NextPCB has started offering free PCBA prototypes for PCB designs based on the ESP32-S3 wireless microcontroller following a similar offer for free Raspberry Pi RP2040/RP2350 PCBAs launched in January 2025.
The Chinese PCB/PCBA manufacturer’s new “accelerator campaign” targets developers, makers, and researchers who developed their own PCB based on the ESP32-S3 microcontroller. They can get two free PCBA prototypes for the original design.
Slots are however limited, and NextPCB will select 20 projects for sponsorship. If selected, you’ll get the following:
- Free Prototyping – Get 2 free PCBA units, including PCB fabrication, components, assembly, and worldwide shipping (valued up to $500 US).
- Technical Support – Get expert assistance with manufacturing engineering, design guidance, certification, and production.
- Personalized Assistance – Receive dedicated one-on-one support throughout your manufacturing journey.
The company will prioritize business projects, but hobbyist designs that contribute to the open-source community and showcase interesting applications using ESP32-S3 will also be considered. As an example, NextPCB highlighted a board with an array of sensors and precision circuitry designed for Edge AI applications and designed by Peter Dalmaris, founder of Tech Explorations.
If you think your project has what it takes, you can apply as follows:
- Contact NextPCB support team (support@nextpcb.com) to register your project and specify its purpose. The company can sign an NDA to protect your intellectual property.
- Submit your PCBA inquiry through the website’s quotation system and follow instructions to claim two free ESP32-S3 based PCBA units.
NextPCB will then manufacture and assemble your board in their factory using precision pick-and-place machines, advanced inspection equipment, and rigorous quality control. They’ll also perform functional testing on the prototypes after flashing your firmware to the boards.
You’l find the full details about the ESP32-S3 accelerator program in the relevant blog post on NextPCB’s website.
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