In form the coop will
be a space with machinery, studio, office, communal and retail space. In
theory it will address the specific needs of the entreprenuer, which we believe
can be broken into three categories of resources; informational, physical, and
financial. Informational Resources Informational resources refers to the skills and knowledge needed to be competitive in the modern apparel business. This includes pattern and sample making, fabric development, marketing and accounting. In practice these resouces are provided and increased by a competitive community and a commitment to continued education in the form of seminars, courses and demonstrations. In addition, because it will be a hub of activity, the Co-op will draw in specialists who are able to share their specific skills to enable others. Physical Resources Physical resources are the tangibles needed to produce sewn products. This includes studio and retail space, a sample shop with a complete range of machinery, cutting tables, pattern software, and plotters. It also includes external physical resources, namely contract manufacturers and suppliers. Working in a collaborative system, we will increase the viability of local manufacturing by stabilizing their workload and developing necessary infrastructure. In addition, fabric buys can be planned and facilitated communally, helping to meet mill minimums, while reducing standing inventory and exposure.  Financial Resources Financial resources refer to the capital needed to promote growth.
Machinery, space and materials all require capital. In this model the
co-op will be built as a place to encourage capital investment in a manner
similar to micro-banking. Working with-in the co-op, brands and investors can feel confident that they will be utilizing their resources wisely because of the framework and structure established. |
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