Local business entrepreneurs have an opportunity to get a small batch of test products manufactured, thanks to a new partnership.

The NW Innovation Resource Center has partnered with Bellingham Technical College's Precision Machining Program to help manufacture small batches of products for customer testing.

Test products are critical for entrepreneurs to receive feedback from users to refine their products before committing to larger manufacturing runs, according to a joint news release.

Joel Townsan, owner of Flipout Screwdrivers, was the first entrepreneur to take advantage of the new partnership.

"This partnership will give us the opportunity to transform our concept prototype into a rugged, industrial-grade power tool made out of actual production materials," Townsan said in the news release. "It will also give us an opportunity to launch our beta-testing program and make necessary changes before we move into mass production."

The Precision Machining Program provides students with employment skills in the computerize machining industry. Details about the program can be found at btc.ctc.edu.

For details on the NW Innovation Resource Center, visit nwirc.com.

Reach DAVE GALLAGHER at dave.gallagher@bellinghamherald.com or call 715-2269.