Several factors contribute to the high initial costs in nanotechnology: 1. Equipment: Precision instruments can cost millions of dollars. 2. Materials: High-quality, pure materials are necessary for nanoscale manipulation. 3. Research and Development: Ongoing R&D is crucial for innovation and quality control. 4. Skilled Workforce: Hiring qualified professionals with expertise in nanoscience is expensive. 5. Regulatory Compliance: Meeting safety and regulatory standards requires additional investment.