Novica

The Challenge

Most artisans in the developing world lack access to global markets, limiting their potential to expand their businesses and increase their financial stability. Even when artisans’ products are sold in international markets, the involvement of intermediaries lowers the amount of income that goes directly to the artisans.

Novica's Approach

Novica is a mission-driven crafts company founded in 1999. It seeks to re-invent the handicraft sector supply chain by connecting artisans in developing nations with global consumer markets using an established international infrastructure. Through regional offices in Brazil, Peru, Mexico, Ghana, Indonesia, Thailand, and India, as well as a fully integrated e-commerce platform, Novica provides artisans with a direct connection to the market. Its partnerships with international organizations (including National Geographic) increase its visibility and diversify its sales through a wholesale channel. By eliminating the intermediaries, Novica enables the artisans to sell their products at a premium and protect their margins.

Novica's Partnership with GBF

GBF is providing Novica with investment capital to expand its global network of artisans to new countries. GBF’s assistance package will include funding for a regional office in Guatemala, as well as Business Advisory Services for participating artisans to develop the skills necessary for improving the quality of their goods.

Novica's Impact

Novica’s business strengthens the crafts export sector in the regions where it operates. Novica’s biggest contribution to the artisans is the direct link that it provides to international customers and their preferences. Specifically, Novica designers work with the artisans to help them improve quality and adapt their products to fit new market trends, producing a dramatic difference in the artisans’ ability to sell and grow.

Click here to visit Novica's website