Banago

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About the organization

BANAGO [ba-nah-go] is a collection of hand woven bags and home accessories, expertly hand crafted by artisans in the Pacific Islands. The collection is made up of vibrant colors and exotic patterns, including the unique and colorful pattern design based on the body-painting traditions of the ancient tattooed "Pintados" warriors in the Philippine islands.

Banago products are available in various high-end retail locations worldwide, and continues to expand to other locations.

Business Category

Retail & Ecommerce

Business Sub-Category

Jewelry, bags & accessories

Year Founded

2011

What makes it a social enterprise?

Banago proudly handcrafts all their products, providing training and employment to local artisans in rural communities within the Philippines.

Every stage of the bag making process - from the harvesting of the wild grass to weave the mats, the embroidering with palm leaves, the dye-making and finishing touches - creates income and supports the livelihood of over 400 local women, families, and thus whole communities. Banago also assists in the recovery of disaster affected communities as it largely operates out of the island of Samar, a region that was devastated by Typhoon Haiyan, and has engaged in efforts to provide disaster recovery to affected individuals, particularly within the communities they work with.

Therefore, every Banago purchase goes towards supporting the local communities, bringing island chic style to the city.