With Katy Osborn

When we think about building a brand that lasts for years and years to come, we need to balance short-term goals with long-term impacts - to people and the planet. The handicraft industry is primed to lead this shift toward a culture that values circularity, community, and ethical innovation. We start by envisioning a world where all living beings thrive in harmony. Then, we’ll explore how our craft businesses can help shape the pathway to a more resilient economy, one that supports our individual needs without depleting our environmental resources.

In this presentation, you’ll learn about a new concept: participatory production. A sustainable business model that invites consumers to directly engage with the handmaking process and transforms them into brand ambassadors. This is a model where there are no tariffs, supply chain disruptions, or material shortages because it's founded in sharing, creative reuse, and community connection. There will be practical steps you can take today and inspiration for building a brand for the future.