Makers United
Makers United is building a more inclusive community of U.S. maker-entrepreneurs and craftspeople by co-creating an ecosystem where BIPOC and low- income makers feel recognized and represented, and have access to the tools they need to grow their businesses – and thrive.
A subset of Nest’s global network of creative entrepreneurs, Makers United elevates the voices of diverse makers in the United States to ensure that the growing American Makers Movement is generating opportunity for all makers regardless of gender, race, economic means or ability.
Opportunities For Growth
Makers United is committed to building a better connected ecosystem for makers. To do this, Nest maps the local landscape of small business support and connects the dots between makers and the local, national, and peer resources they need. Additionally, through the program, creative entrepreneurs can gain access to exclusive opportunities like the Madewell Maker Collective, Etsy’s Uplift Makers Program, Nest’s flagship Makers Future Fund, and more!
Where We Work
Makers United reaches makers and creative entrepreneurs in 47 states and several territories with a growing library of digital resources and a calendar of online learning events.
Nest supports historically marginalized communities across the US and invests in the preservation of important craft traditions. These special programs include work with Gee’s Bend Quilters of Alabama, the Gullah Weavers of South Carolina, Native and Indigenous craftspeople, makers in Appalachia, NYC’s Garment District, the craft community in Puerto Rico. Additionally, we have a regional program for arriving immigrants and refugees in 4 states.
Get Involved
Makers United members receive access to Nest Connect, an exclusive digital hub featuring a growing library of business development resources prepared by industry experts, opportunities to participate in in-person local workshops in select communities, and the chance to apply for Nest’s more intensive accelerators and financing programs. All of the resources provided to members of the Makers United network are free to ensure equitable access and opportunity for all.
Lin Bader, Founder + Jeweler, Lin Bader Design
“As a young jewelry business, the Makers United program has been guiding me through every major milestone and providing invaluable opportunities like in-person workshops, mentorship, trade show exposures, grant programs… [it] is the community I can turn to for advice, guidance, and a sense of belonging.”
Going Deeper
Makers United brings visibility to under-represented maker entrepreneurs across the US. The program is driven by participant voice: leveraging human-centered design, makers co-create programs with Nest based on their specific business priorities. They drive their experience as we equitably match resources to needs.
Through Makers United, Nest is committed to expanding market access by bridging the digital divide that disproportionately affects BIPOC and low-income makers by increasing their access to ecommerce opportunities and working with them to develop the digital literacy needed to succeed.
Meet your fellow makers
Sally Qiu • Founder
The initial inspiration to start For Sea and Oats came from two of Sally’s favorite things: oats and the ocean.
Growing up with very sensitive skin, she was constantly searching for skincare products that were gentle yet effective, and she discovered the soothing magic of oats. As an environmental science student in college, she spent a summer in Mexico as a sea turtle conservation volunteer. During the daily 3-mile patrols, she was deeply distressed by the plastic-infested beaches.
In 2021, Sally founded For Sea and Oats to create all-natural, oat-based products for sensitive skin and offer low-waste skincare solutions to reduce ocean plastic. Co-launched with the brand was the “Profits for Sea” social impact initiative, under which Sally donates a portion of profits to support ocean conservation projects globally.
On her craft and time partnering with Nest Sally stated, “Handcraft allows me to feel present in the world and is a way for me to connect my identity with creativity. Through Nest, I have found a meaningful space to share that connection, especially during events/activities in Women’s History Month each year, under the Nest x Anthropologie partnership.”
Website | Instagram
Lee Rickie • Founder
Lys’ mission is simple: to bring more joy and healing into the world through her art.
A self-taught visual artist based in Austin, Texas, Lys specializes in intricate mosaic public art and handcrafted beaded jewelry. The slow, deliberate process of working with her hands is where she finds true fulfillment.
Lys shared what her partnership with Nest has meant to her. “Nest has truly been an incredible supporter of my work! I’m so grateful for their consistent encouragement, support, and genuine dedication to makers like me. They’ve opened many doors, allowing me to grow in my craft and continue my mission of bringing joy, healing, and beauty to the world through art,” she said. “I’m excited to share my latest public artwork: a 300-square-foot mosaic floor at Barton Springs Pool in Austin, Texas!”
Website | Instagram
Lys Santamaria • Founder
Committed to delivering unparalleled customer service, utilizing high-end textiles, and consistently pushing the boundaries of modern fashion, Lee Rickie Collection redefines what it means to dress with style and sophistication.
Lee Rickie Collection is where California creativity meets global style. This e-commerce-driven brand crafts, manufactures, and offers premium menswear with a distinct emphasis on contemporary, luxury, ready-to-wear attire. Since expanding into wholesale partnerships with upscale boutiques worldwide in 2016, the Lee Rickie Brand has graced the wardrobes of numerous celebrities and actors.
On his craft and time partnering with Nest Lee Rickie said, “Our menswear is built on intentional design, elevated textiles, and craftsmanship that respects time-honored methods. Nest has been a meaningful space to align with makers who share those values.”