Kotn: Cultivating Sustainable Communities through Conscious Fashion

Kotn, a brand with a profound vision, embarked on its journey with a simple yet ambitious goal - to create the perfect t-shirt. In 2017, the founders, Ben, Mackenzie, and Rami, dreamt up the idea during a hot New York summer. Rami's journey back to his familial home in Egypt became the catalyst, where the seed of Kotn was planted in a cotton-farming community in the Nile Delta for six months. Since then, the brand has evolved into an impact-driven force, dedicated to creating lasting products and communities.

Sustaining Change from Farm to Hanger

Kotn's commitment to sustainability is ingrained in every aspect of its operations, starting with the sourcing of raw materials. The brand directly engages with small-holder farmers in the Nile Delta and Faiyum regions of Egypt, cultivating long-lasting relationships. The cornerstone of their material sourcing is Egyptian cotton, known as "white gold" for its finer, softer, and stronger fibers. This not only ensures high-quality products but also uplifts the livelihoods of these farmers.

To address environmental concerns, Kotn focuses on natural fibers that biodegrade at the end of their lifecycle, reducing the impact of synthetic materials. The brand's dedication to transparency is evident through its supply chain practices, ensuring clear traceability from the farm to the final stitch. Utilizing certified organizations like BCI and GOTS for sourcing fibers beyond Egyptian cotton exemplifies their commitment to ecologically and socially progressive standards.

Education as Empowerment

Beyond fashion, Kotn stands out for its impactful initiative, The ABCs Project. In rural Egypt, where 32% of people lack basic literacy skills, Kotn recognized the need for education. With each Kotn order, a portion of the proceeds goes towards funding and building primary schools in the Nile Delta and Faiyum. This initiative, in collaboration with Misr El Kheir Foundation, aims to provide a safe, accessible, and quality education for children in farming communities.

The impact is profound - 18 schools funded, with an impressive 88% enrollment of girls, addressing gender disparities. Kotn's commitment extends beyond infrastructure; it encompasses holistic support, including water and electricity provisions, technical training, and extracurricular programs, demonstrating a comprehensive approach towards community development.

Timeless Designs, Lasting Impact

At Kotn, sustainability is not just a buzzword; it's a way of life. Their dedication to creating considered, timeless pieces emphasizes buying less and enjoying longer. From meticulously sourced materials to transparent supply chains and community-focused initiatives, Kotn proves that fashion can indeed be a force for positive change. As a certified B Corporation, Kotn's impact-driven model sets it apart, with an overall B Impact Score of 121.3, reflecting the brand's commitment to creating shared, sustainable growth for the communities they are part of.