The Ultimate Guide to Understanding Mission-Based Products

As we look around the world today, the world needs more passionate people. Whether you are passionate about animals, the environment, or human rights; we all have the ability to make an impact. One of the ways that we can amplify the impact is to spend our time and money towards the causes we are passionate about, such as mission based products. 

What are mission based products? 

Mission based products are sourced, designed, or manufactured to benefit or promote a specific mission or cause. Think of pink bracelets that support Breast Cancer Research, or Diff eyewear that gives a pair of glasses with each purchase. It can even be the Fair Trade bananas or organic apples at the grocery store. The brands and specific business model may vary, but the products help support an overall mission that goes beyond making a profit. 

Why buy mission based products?

When you are shopping, it is easy to find a ton of options to choose from. It can give anyone decision fatigue and look for the cheapest, or first option. In the era of 2 hr. delivery and free returns, it is easy to add to cart without looking for specific mission based products or brands. We get it and have been there. But there are other great benefits to shopping mission based products or brands. Here are a few reasons why you should consider buying mission based products:

 

Vote with your dollar. 

Do you have a cause you really care about? Maybe it is human rights or saving the amazon (or like me you are passionate about both). When we purchase goods that align and support causes we care about, we not only help with the purchase, but “vote” with our money for the types of products, brands, and causes that matter to us. The more people who “vote” can collectively change the demand for these types of products and increase impact. 

Align with your values

The items we surround ourselves with make a statement. They show our style, aesthetic, and what we value. Adding products to our home and life that align with our values helps us live a more authentic and mindful lifestyle. 

Spread awareness 

When we purchase products that support a mission or value we care about, it also allows others to see these causes. For example, a fair trade tea or artisan made scarf can bring up conversation and an opportunity to share a bit about the product and why you are passionate about the cause. Additionally, the more products the mission based brand can sell, the more impact they can make and the more they can spread the word as well. 

     

 

Do I need to buy all mission based products now?

Not at all. While in an ideal world, we could all buy only mission based products, the reality is that it is not always the most accessible. We are all about progress over perfection. We believe that change happens when more people are involved at any level, than a few who do it perfectly. Look at the items that you buy most often, is there a good mission based alternative? Or maybe you start with a specific category such as coffee, buying only organic produce, or gifts. 

How do I know if the products really support the mission or cause?

 In a world of greenwashing, it can be hard to know if the products really support the mission. While these tips do not give a 100% guarantee, it can give more confidence when choosing a mission based product:

• Look up the organization the brand or product supports. Does the organization have an impact report? Does the organization have a contact or non-profit number? 
• Compare the brand and organization on a Charity ranking such as Charity Navigator or Give.Org
• Look for certifications on the product such as Fair Trade 
• Reach out to the brand directly

 

Here at Suite Stitch, we have some mission based products such as our Love Collection. The way we support the mission is through a portion of the proceeds multiplied by the number of units we purchased. It then gets given in a one time donation to the specific organization. We communicate the final donation in our email to our community with an image demonstrating the donation. As a small business, we are not on Charity Navigator, but the organizations we support are. We thoroughly review the charities we choose to support. 

                 

Where do I find mission based products?

• Depending on the type of product you are looking for (e.g., produce, clothing, furniture) where to find the option may vary. 
• You can often find mission based products at specific retail locations such as a thrift store that benefits a specific cause or a farmers market. 
• Online retailers also supply mission based brands and there are a few marketplaces such as Fair Trade or Unicef Market for gifts. 

 

Mission based products are a great way to make an impact. It does not have to be all or nothing, but something you incorporate into your life over time. When looking for mission based products it is important to research the brand and organization to ensure your purchases align with your values and lifestyle.