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
Reyna Davis • Founder
With a deep passion for art, creativity, and nature, I transform polymer clay into stunning, one-of-a-kind jewelry pieces.
I’m Reyna Davis, the owner and artist behind Reyna Bee Clay Company which began in 2022. By Day I enjoy a part-time job as an Aesthetician and Nail Tech at a local Spa, and at home I’m a passionate jewelry designer!
My journey into the world of polymer clay began as an opportunity to turn a passion into a way to support oneself, and quickly grew into a thriving business. Reyna Bee Clay Co. has won awards, and has been juried into multiple artisan guilds and craftsmen programs. My work has been featured in various local shops and boutiques and greatly enjoy collaborating with local organizations to create jewelry that inspires the community.
My pieces are often inspired by natural elements, blending polymer clay into organic shapes and adding vibrant colors to evoke a sense of connection and joy. Each piece is meticulously handcrafted, clean lines are incredibly appreciated while celebrating the beauty found in imperfection. Through my work, I aim to offer an expression of individuality and creativity, encouraging others to embrace their own unique style and story.
Website | Instagram
Belisa Mandarano • Founder
For me, being creative isn’t just a pastime—it’s a way to reflect, recharge and help others discover their own paths to creativity.
Hello! I’m Belisa, but my friends call me “B.” I’m a San Francisco-based sewist and photographer who strives to learn something new every day, inspire others to “B Creative,” and leave the world a better place. I founded B Creative SF to share the uplifting feeling that comes from doing something creative, building community, and promoting wellness through artistic expression.
After two decades of sewing, crafting, and photography for friends and family, I decided to step away from a demanding 17-year career in retail technology to focus on creating handmade, sustainable gifts. My work often involves upcycling materials into unique items like bags and journal covers, using bold patterns and textures that I source from creative reuse centers. Touch and smell are key to my creative process, and I love reimagining upholstery fabric swatches into one-of-a-kind pieces.
To complement my sewing, I create hand-poured, small-batch candles with clean fragrances that enhance focus and creativity. I also offer personalized sewing services, transforming beloved fabric articles into cherished new creations. I’m always open to collaborating on new sewing projects and exploring ideas for personalized gifts. Whether it’s creating something completely unique or bringing a fresh perspective to a special project, I love working with others to bring meaningful and creative visions to life.