If there is one thing the internet and social media sites have shown is that no matter who you are or where you come from you can become part of a community. Nvohk, a eco-minded surf inspired clothing company, is trying to do just that by inviting members to become part of its community while offering them a slice of ownership.
It works in a pretty simple way. Presently the company is seeking registrants, or members, for the community. Their aim is to sign up 40,000 members to the site. However, once they reach 20,000 members they will then begin the process of seeking a $50 contribution from those signed up already. That's when the company starts designing and developing their eco-friendly surf inspired clothing.
You're The Designer
One part that might entice people is the fact that members are in fact a part of the managerial and development process. Members make decisions on logo designs, product designs, marketing etc... So in effect you are in charge of the company - along with your community folk.
One part that might not entice you is that you do not get any monetary benefit out of it, instead the community gets awarded 35% of the net profits as reward points. Which can be used to buy nvohk products. A lot of people might not be too happy about that part. But look at this way if your business decisions make the company successful then you could be set up with free clothing for life!
Nvohk also donates 10% of profits to environmental charities. Read here for a full overview of the membership benefits.
It would be really interesting to note the kind of development, transition, hiccups the company may face with a community in the tens of thousands deciding what they should produce and what they should not.
Personally being into fashion I think this is a good concept, similar concept threadless.com comes to mind, I'm sure that nvohk will be able to drive signups from freelance designers and fashion aficionados. If you're one of them go ahead and sign up for nvohk and help shape a brand.
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In that case the company is in fact an existing company with production already going on. They are just looking for a new market to sell their goods. 20000 people give out $50 each for no purchase. Any profit made by the company (the more it is, better for them) goes out in the form of their products.
Jalaj, they are an existing company but I do not know if they have any production going on. I guess they decided to go the community way to raise money instead of approaching a VC.
It might work, might not. Only time will tell.
It’s a great idea. Designers will love it.