Custom Collaborative trains, mentors, and advocates for and with no/low-income and immigrant women to build the skills necessary to achieve economic success in the sustainable fashion industry and broader society.
We envision a world in which all women possess the skills, confidence, and agency to design their futures and contribute to a sustainable world — regardless of race or economic background.
“The opportunities I have accessed as a Custom Collaborative graduate have inspired me to uplift others.”
— Yannet Sandi Herrera, Cohort 10 Graduate
Training Institute
Custom Collaborative's comprehensive 15-week program teaching the art, technique, and business of fashion design. We specialize in teaching women how to construct made-to-measure clothing and personalized accessories for all body types. Our training includes extensive instruction in fashion business basics including marketing, sourcing, ethical manufacturing, and sustainability, along with personal finance. Students graduate equipped with the toolkit to begin a career in fashion.
Business Incubator
Custom Collaborative offers management consulting, mentorship, technical assistance, advanced training, and professional equipment to Training Institute graduates and others in the fashion industry. Our goal is to maximize work opportunities and improve socio-economic outcomes for all women. We accept sample and production orders of 1 - 100 pieces.
Worker-Owned Cooperative
Custom Collaborative develops employee-owned businesses. In support of equitable economic development, and ownership opportunities for all, we train people in cooperative principles and practices and incubate their employee-owned businesses.
100%
Of the women we serve are ambitious.
97%
Are racial/ethnic minorities.
70%
Are immigrants/first generation Americans.
75%
Are primary caregivers.
51%
Lack permanent housing.
Get to Know Us.
Follow us on Instagram to see the exciting things happening at our 10,000-square-foot space in the heart of NYC’s garment district. Our Creative Voices series highlights the Training Insitute participants and their accomplishments through the 15-week program. Learn about our amazing public workshops, industry partnerships, and more.
Connect with us on socials @customcolab and sign up for our newsletter using the form below.
