As far as launch prices, I think the 50k figure given is accurate, but only through companies that resell / broker space launches. Getting your own launch outside of a reseller / broker would cost more. For instance, if you buy from SpaceX's rideshare program directly it can cost 1.2 million. This is because SpaceX's base pricing starts at a 200kg payload. Anything that weighs less is still charged at 1.2 million. However, if you go through a third party that resells the launches then it can be 50k or lower. I know I have seen one as low as 20k for a 1U launch. The main reason why its cheaper is a combination of economy of scale (launching lots of cubesats at once) and/or VC funding. The best launch prices in general tend to come from startups who are heavily subsidizing the launches with VC money.
Also, if anyone is curious about cubesats or our work in general feel free to AMA.