Introduction:
Today many of us look for sustainable fashion and few brands embody this better than Bored George Sunglasses. Founded by Georgia, a self-taught entrepreneur and designer, Bored George creates eyewear that’s not only fun and stylish but also environmentally friendly, using plant-based and biodegradable acetate.
While Georgia’s designs are turning heads, her journey to growing a sustainable fashion brand hasn’t been without its challenges. That’s where the Auckland Business Chamber stepped in, offering guidance and support at critical moments.
We recently caught up with Georgia to learn more about Bored George and how the Chamber has been instrumental in the brand’s success.
Why She Joined:
Georgia’s introduction to the Auckland Business Chamber came through the Regional Business Partner Program, which she credits with providing her business with the confidence and direction it needed. “As a self-taught entrepreneur, I came into the business not knowing a lot about many aspects of running it. When I learned about the Chamber’s regional business program, I knew it was exactly the support I needed to make more informed decisions,” Georgia shared.
The Chamber offered her access to resources and expert advice that helped her navigate the complexities of building a business, from brand development to strategic growth. With a unique product like sustainable eyewear, having a support system in place was essential for Bored George to establish itself as a credible and trusted brand.
A Spectrum of Support:
For Georgia and Bored George Sunglasses, the Chamber’s support has been invaluable in multiple ways:
- Regional Business Partner Program: This program provided Georgia with not only financial support but also crucial contacts. “I was paired with a business coach who helped me with brand development and recently connected me with another coach focused on business direction,” Georgia said. These resources have been vital in ensuring Or George stays on a path of continuous growth.
- Confidence and Connections: Starting as a solo entrepreneur can be isolating, and having the confidence to make critical decisions can be tough. The Chamber helped bridge that gap, connecting Georgia with mentors and a network of fellow business owners. Through these connections, she’s gained a sense of belonging in the business community and the confidence to trust her instincts.
- Business Coaching: One of the standout experiences for Georgia was the hands-on support from business coaches. “They’ve helped me not only with brand development but also with making sure that my business is continuously growing in the right direction,” she explained. These relationships have been a game-changer for her entrepreneurial journey.
Networking and Belonging:
Being part of the Auckland Business Chamber has given Georgia more than just business advice; it’s provided her with a sense of belonging. As a solo entrepreneur, finding a network of people to lean on and learn from has been incredibly valuable. “It can be difficult to find support when you’re going at it alone, so having a platform like the Chamber to go to when I need help has been great for me,” she shared.
Conclusion:
For Georgia and Bored George Sunglasses, joining the Auckland Business Chamber has been about much more than accessing resources, it’s about being part of a community that supports and uplifts small businesses. From funding and business coaching to valuable connections, the Chamber has been a crucial partner in helping Georgia turn her sustainable fashion vision into a reality.
Through her proactive engagement with the Chamber, Georgia has built not only a growing business but also a supportive network in Auckland’s business community.
Interested in becoming a member?
By being part of the Chamber, you can connect, learn, grow, and contribute to our influential voice for business advocacy. Join us at the Auckland Business Chamber and unlock the full potential of your business, just like Georgia did with Bored George Sunglasses.
