What You Get:

Factory45 is a self-paced program that takes sustainable fashion entrepreneurs from idea to launch.

Through action-based modules, vetted supply chain databases, templates and virtual training,

Factory45 entrepreneurs are equipped to build a sustainable fashion business from idea to launch.

Module 1: Sourcing

Effectively research and source the fabric and materials you need to create your apparel product, accessory line or collection.

• Connections to a database of hundreds of suppliers who sell sustainable fabrics and low minimums.
• Strategies to get a response from these suppliers, including exact scripts outlining what to say (and what not to say), so that you can build relationships and start confidently sourcing the materials you need.
• An in-depth understanding of sewn manufacturing, how it works, what you need to know to avoid mistakes and how to efficiently source materials for production.
• An overview of sustainability so you’ll have a clear understanding of what makes a fabric “eco-friendly” and whether it’s the right fit for your product.
• A materials inventory template so you’ll know the exact fabric and materials you’ll need to go into production.
• Training on how to create your sketches and a professional spec sheet — even if you can’t draw!

Module 2: Brand Identity

Identify who your ideal customer is, how to effectively communicate what you sell and learn proven strategies that will get a potential customer’s attention.

• An understanding of smart business principles that will keep you “lean” and out of debt.
• A complete brand strategy that speaks directly to your target market and represents the visual identity of your company.
• A pre-launch strategy that generates customer leads to create ‘early adopters’ of your product.
• Implementation of the #1 most effective marketing tactic for an ecommerce product launch.
• A “traffic engine” that will turn interested customers into repeat customers over time.

Module 3: Pre-Production

Connect with top industry designers, samplemakers, patternmakers and production partners that will help you turn your ideas into prototypes and patterns.

• Connections to dozens of vetted pattern/samplemakers who will work with you to create a “production-ready” pattern and prototype.
• Guidance and resources for navigating the sewn manufacturing industry as an outsider.
• Connections to production partners who will happily work with low minimums and pay a fair and living wage to their workers.
• A cost and budget analysis so you’ll know how much capital you’ll need to go into production.
• A database of resources for sustainable packaging, hangtags and labels.

Module 4: Ecommerce Marketing

Module 5: Preparing for Launch

Bonus Workshop Recordings

In addition to the program curriculum, access 100+ recordings of Factory45 Workshops. For anything that isn’t covered in the portal, the live workshops fill in the gaps and offer topical advice. Examples of Workshops include:

• How to Avoid Red Flags and Scams
• How to Use Email Marketing Automations to Nurture Your Audience
• Crafting a Brand Story to Use for Pre-Launch PR Opportunities
• Managing Your Supply Chain Remotely
• Financial Fluency & Your First Tax Season
• Self Care & Overcoming the Mental Load of being an Entrepreneur
• Working with Fit Models, Grading & Sizing
• Working with Influencers, Building Relationships & Negotiating Partnerships
• And so many more!

Shannon Lohr