Innovation, Precision, and Passion
Evan LaBelle, founder and owner of Autotiv Manufacturing in Salem is the SBA 2026 Young Entrepreneur of the Year for New Hampshire and New England. This honor recognizes LaBelle’s outstanding achievements in innovation, business growth and community impact throughout the region. When LaBelle began experimenting with 3D printing in high school in 2012, he had no idea his curiosity would spark one of NH’s most exciting manufacturing success stories.
At age 16 LaBelle delivered a TED Talk on experiential learning, reflecting his early passion for hands-on innovation. He later expanded his work in college, growing Autotiv Manufacturing from a dorm room operation through multiple facility expansions as demand for precision parts took off. Over the past 12 years, Evan has scaled Autotiv Manufacturing through multiple facility expansions as demand for high-precision parts accelerated. Today, Autotiv Manufacturing operates an advanced production facility spanning over 12,000 square feet, equipped with more than 200 3D printers. Autotiv supports industries such as robotics, aerospace, and engineering by delivering high-quality parts for both prototyping and production. In addition to its manufacturing capabilities, the company has developed proprietary software that helps keep the shop floor organized and efficient, supporting the production and shipment of over 10,000 parts per week. Autotiv has also built an advanced instant quoting platform that provides real-time pricing and manufacturability analysis across more than 100 additive materials, as well as a wide range of manufacturing options including CNC machining, injection molding, casting, and sheet metal fabrication, along with dozens of post-processing options such as performance coatings. By integrating software and manufacturing, the company enables customers to move from concept to production faster and with greater confidence.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Evan leveraged SBA support through the Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) and Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), which provided critical working capital to sustain operations, retain employees, and continue serving customers during a period of significant uncertainty. More recently, with support from the Office of International Commerce, Autotiv Manufacturing has begun pursuing ISO 9001 certification to further strengthen its quality systems and support continued growth.
LaBelle’s business exemplifies a long-term commitment to modern manufacturing, delivering value to customers through speed, quality and reliability. As the company grows, LaBelle remains dedicated to mentoring young innovators by partnering with local technical schools to ignite interest in 3D design and high-tech production.
“Evan represents the next generation of forward-thinking manufacturers,” said Amy Bassett, district director of the SBA New Hampshire District Office. ”His use of technology to create custom designed components is remarkable. What is even more impressive is his drive and commitment from the early beginnings to create a sustainable business that provides top notch customer service right here in New Hampshire.”
LaBelle and the other SBA Award winners from New Hampshire will be honored at the SBA’s 2026 Small Business Week celebration on Thursday May 7, 2026 at the McAuliffe-Shepard Discovery Center, 2 Institute Dr, Concord, NH 03301. The event runs from 4:30-6:30 pm.
Register to join us at https://www.sba.gov/event/83083