Amanda Yanchury
CAUSE I RUN
Massachusetts
Where were you with your idea or business before joining Factory45?
When I joined Factory45, I had a pretty good vision of my brand, target market, and product line, but I was missing some of the critical tools needed to make it happen. I joined the program because I’d reached a point where I needed to formulate a production strategy – and had no idea where to start.
Tell us about your company.
Cause I Run is sustainable activewear that gives back: 10% of each purchase is given to one of three charities. Starting with a small three-piece collection, we’ll expand into athleisure, yoga, and men’s running gear over the next few years. Cause I Run is for people who want to know where and how their running clothes are made, without sacrificing performance quality. We’re proud to say that our products are all made in America.
How did joining Factory45 help you?
Joining Factory45 gave me a specific structure that helped me realize what I should be prioritizing and when. Starting a fashion brand without any technical experience is overwhelming, so I really appreciated the way it was all broken down: do X first, then Y (and explaining industry terminology along the way).
It allowed me to take one small step at a time, so I was able to make real progress. It’s like having a roadmap to a successful launch.
Another big factor was the community. It was immensely helpful to learn about and hear from others who are in my position – or who have been, and are now experiencing success. Because of this community, I’m able to keep asking “Why not me?” Why shouldn’t I be the one to do this? It was incredibly inspiring, and I definitely wouldn’t be where I am today without it.
What do you feel is the most valuable thing about Factory45?
I’ve already touched on how the community was hugely beneficial. But the network extends beyond just my cohort members. The contacts listed in the supplier/manufacturer/media databases are incredibly valuable. I’m new to this industry and to my city – so being able to reference a list of trusted sources, in all areas, from marketing to searching for a production partner, was so helpful.
I’m also glad the program and its resources were available to me for longer than just the program dates: now that I’m almost in production, I’m revisiting a lot of the lessons to remind myself of some of the best practices and ways to reach out to spread the word about my launch.
What advice do you have for an aspiring entrepreneur?
If you have an apparel idea you can’t stop thinking about, and a commitment to sustainability/the environment, then Factory45 is the best piece of advice I can give you.
Even if you don’t yet know the details, or if you have doubts – if you have the passion and the will to learn, Factory45 can provide the tools to help you get there. I would especially recommend Factory45 to anyone starting an apparel company without formal educational training in the technical aspects of fashion.
Getting affirmation that you’re looking for the right things, in the right places, is so helpful! Manufacturing in America is especially tough – because it’s so rare, it’s hard to navigate. Factory45 makes it easier.
In large part due to being an alum of Factory45, I now know what I’m talking about a lot more often (which is nice!). I can’t stress enough how great it is to walk into a meeting with a potential supplier or production facility and be able to have the terminology to be taken seriously and get the answers I need. Factory45 has helped me learn what I didn’t know I didn’t know – and I’m very grateful that it’s given me the confidence to move forward with producing my brand.
I’m grateful not only for Shannon’s invaluable expertise and knowledge, but also for the cohort of fellow entrepreneurs, who continue to provide support and inspiration.
What were some big or small milestones that you hit after going through Factory45?
After Factory45 was over, I continued to develop my product line and build my base by speaking at a few local startup events and continuing to stay in touch with my email and social media followers.
I launched a Kickstarter campaign in the spring of 2016, raising more than $15,000. After fulfilling my pre-orders, I opened my online store and am enjoying this stage of analyzing my production process and implementing marketing strategies to build brand awareness and sales.
Ready to join us?
APPLICATIONS FOR 2017 ARE NOW OPEN.
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