In the spring of 2015, The School of Making partners with Nest, a non-profit organization that supports the responsible growth and creative engagement of the artisan and maker economy to build a world of greater gender equity and economic inclusion. The team at Nest collaborates with artisan-based businesses that have strong leadership and the potential to transform their communities by alleviating poverty, empowering women, and promoting peace.
Drawn to Natalie’s success with the hand-sewn artisan business model, and interested in supporting the development and growth of Building 14’s machine manufacturing, Nest fundraises to develop a curriculum for manufacturing. Skilled industry professionals teach workshops and provide training for the Building 14 team, and offer support to grow Building 14 and foster employment opportunities for the community and region.
Natalie speaks at Nest’s 2014 Artisan Leadership Summit in New York City, In October 2015, Nest founders Rebecca and Chris van Bergen visit Florence, Alabama, to present at the On Design: Makeshift Conversation Series at The Factory. (Learn more about the origins of the Makeshift Conversations here.)
Natalie is currently a member of Nest’s Advisory Board.
Learn more about Nest’s initiatives and follow along @buildanest.
Slide 1: Bolts of organic cotton jersey fabric stored in Building 14, 2021, photograph by Rinne Allen