And so it began
Factory 45 a four-month accelerator program for sustainable apparel companies that takes you from idea to launch. Shannon Whitehead gives the tools to source fabric, find a manufacturer & raise money to fund production. Applications to become a part of Factory45 are open from Feb. 16 – March 2 at www.factory45.co
I was one of 10 entrepreneurs to be accepted into the program. My idea and dream of adaptable clothing for men and women in wheelchairs is launching soon in 2015. I would have never made this happen without Shannon’s guidance into the fashion industry.
Check out the 9 entrepreneurs
- Mikaela Wallinder Clifford – Ruth & Ragnar
- Jenn Lak – Blue Verde
- Tina Hofer Medico – The Sparkboard
- Jesse Syswerda- Eenvoud
- Angela Tsai – Mama Chic
- Sharon Eisenhauer – Meraki
- Emily Rose Gutman – Inner Gaia
- Alexander and Jonathan Perrelli – Dinosaurs | Kids Clothing Line
- Lara Neece – Forest and Fin
Pictured is Shannon Whitehead, founder and CEO of Factory45 and Kristin Tidwell owner of Be Well Designed, Inc. and they are looking at the material I picked for my adaptable jean collection. Kristin, who I met through Factory45 is talented and knowledgeable about the textile industry and we will be collaborating on many projects to come!
I heard about Factory 45 from a friend who suggested I should take a look. When I went to the website I didn’t have much time before the application deadline. I took a few days to think it over and now I don’t even know why I did take those few days. It was all the resources and information I needed to start my clothing line that I had spent 2 years trying to figure out on my own. Once my application was picked Shannon and I met via Skype and I instantly felt a connection. I obviously said yes and so it began. Week by week I became more knowledgeable about the fashion industry. The support from others in the group gave me motivation when I was overwhelmed.
Shannon Whitehead of Factory45 works with idea-stage entrepreneurs to launch apparel companies that are ethically and sustainably made in the USA. If this is you…make sure you apply!
