Design 21: Social Design Network

Shopanthropic is where high quality designer products meet social change locally and globally. We believe that people can have a significant positive impact on the world through their purchases. We aspire to bring trendy 'feel good' designer products that are ethically-made, fair trade or eco-friendly.

We represent the unique creativity of our global network of artisans. Many of these artisans are women from some of the most deprived and disadvantaged communities, with very little opportunities for self-development and growth and in most cases, their work and their identity both remain uncounted or undercounted and unseen. We give them a stage to share their stories, an ability to grow and the opportunity to better their lives and their communities.

Our mission is important but so is our style. We are on the constant look out the upcoming colour and style trends around the world. Our pieces are beautifully handcrafted by our skillful artisans as they build their skills and weave their stories into the finished products. Our hope is to continue to expand our global reach and build our artisan network.

Our products are available through our retail website and through various online and brick & mortar retailers. We work with non-profits in building fundraising campaigns using ethically-made products that align more closely with non-profit missions. We also work with corporations in creating sustainable products that can tie into their corporate social responsibility initiatives through the gifts they give their employees and clients.

We take our work one step further in building and promoting the conversation on designer ethical products through various webinars and events across North America. We’re also embracing technology with our recent launch of the Global Artisan Technology Project – helping artisans connect to a global marketplace.