What is Factory45?
Factory45 is a self-paced, action-oriented program designed to guide sustainable fashion entrepreneurs through every stage of building a business, from idea inception to launch. The program includes modules, vetted supplier databases, templates, and virtual training, making it a comprehensive resource for anyone aiming to create an eco-friendly apparel line, accessory collection, or product.
Unlike many other programs, Factory45 is heavily focused on sustainability, making it the go-to option for individuals or companies committed to ethical production methods, responsible sourcing, and eco-friendly materials. Whether you’re entirely new to the industry or have some experience, Factory45 provides practical tools and resources to help you hit the ground running.
What’s Inside Factory45?
The program is broken down into five essential modules that guide you from the initial concept to a successful product launch. Here’s a closer look at each one:
Module 1: Sourcing
This module sets the foundation for your sustainable fashion brand by teaching you the ins and outs of sourcing eco-friendly materials.
Fabric & Material Research: You’ll learn to effectively research and source sustainable fabrics and materials to bring your product vision to life. A key aspect of this is gaining access to hundreds of vetted suppliers, who specialize in low minimums and sustainable materials.
Building Relationships with Suppliers: Factory45 provides scripts and strategies to help you communicate with suppliers, ensuring you make meaningful connections that facilitate your sourcing efforts.
Understanding Sustainability: The module also focuses on what makes a fabric eco-friendly, helping you determine the right materials for your brand.
Technical Aspects: Even if you’re not a designer, you’ll get a clear understanding of how to create sketches and professional spec sheets.
Module 2: Brand Identity
After you have your materials sourced, it’s time to build a brand that resonates with your target audience.
Customer Identification & Communication: Learn how to identify your ideal customer and effectively communicate your brand message to them. This section covers strategies that will help your product stand out in a crowded market.
Brand Strategy & Visual Identity: You’ll get guidance on crafting a brand strategy that speaks to your target market, from your logo to your overall brand image.
Pre-Launch Marketing: Pre-launch strategies, including lead generation, help you gather customer interest before your product even hits the market.
Module 3: Pre-Production
This module dives deep into creating your product and getting it ready for production.
Industry Connections: Get introduced to vetted pattern makers, sample makers, and designers who can help turn your ideas into a tangible product.
Navigating the Production Process: Whether you’re new to the world of fashion or a seasoned pro, you’ll learn the ins and outs of sewn manufacturing, from creating patterns to preparing for bulk production.
Cost and Budgeting: You’ll get a detailed look at budgeting for production, ensuring that you know exactly how much capital you’ll need.
Module 4: Ecommerce Marketing
Launching to an audience is essential, and this module ensures you’re not launching to crickets.
Content & Social Media Strategy: Learn a proven content marketing strategy that helps you attract customers through relevant and engaging content, even before the product launch.
Media & PR Strategy: This module teaches you how to craft a press strategy that generates buzz around your brand, using media outlets to your advantage.
Launch Strategies: Shannon provides her top 10 proven launch strategies, covering how to build early excitement and interest for your brand.
Module 5: Preparing for Launch
Once you’ve nailed down your marketing and pre-production efforts, it’s time to prepare for the big day.
Pre-Selling & Raising Capital: Learn how to test your product at market by pre-selling, which allows you to see how your target audience responds to your product. This also helps raise capital for your first production run.
Creative Direction: Get guidance on everything from photography and video to running your marketing campaign and generating buzz.
PR & Storytelling: You’ll learn how to craft a compelling brand story that helps attract media attention and resonates with your audience.
Bonus Workshops & Resources
Factory45 also includes access to 100+ recorded workshops that cover a wide range of additional topics:
- Avoiding Scams & Red Flags
- Using Email Marketing Automations
- Crafting a Brand Story for PR
- Managing Supply Chains Remotely
- Working with Influencers & Building Partnerships
These workshops serve as a goldmine for filling in any gaps that the main modules may not cover, ensuring you’re prepared for every scenario.
Who is Factory45 For?
Factory45 is ideal for:
Aspiring Fashion Entrepreneurs: If you have an idea but don’t know where to start, Factory45 provides the blueprint to launch your sustainable fashion business.
Eco-Conscious Creatives: If you’re committed to creating a brand that is rooted in sustainability and ethical practices, Factory45 will align with your values.
Fashion Designers Looking to Scale: If you’ve already started a fashion line but need help with scaling production and building a solid brand, this program offers the connections and resources to help you grow.
What Makes Factory45 Stand Out?
Focus on Sustainability: Factory45’s laser focus on sustainability sets it apart from other fashion business courses. You’re not just learning how to launch a brand—you’re learning how to do it responsibly.
Industry Connections: The program provides vetted industry connections that you wouldn’t have access to otherwise, from fabric suppliers to pattern makers.
Comprehensive Support: The combination of action-based modules, real-life examples, templates, and a community of like-minded entrepreneurs gives you all the tools you need to succeed.
Conclusion: Is Factory45 Worth It?
Factory45 offers a step-by-step guide that demystifies the entire process of launching a sustainable fashion brand. The program’s strong focus on sourcing eco-friendly materials, building a brand identity, and practical steps to launch make it a robust option for anyone serious about entering the sustainable fashion world.
With lifetime access to resources and 100+ workshop recordings, it’s a program that offers long-term value for entrepreneurs who want to build a brand that stands the test of time.
If you’re ready to take the plunge into sustainable fashion and create something meaningful, Factory45 could be your best investment yet.
