Craftmerce selected for Techstars Los Angeles, propelling wholesale African Marketplace into the future

Los Angeles, California, April 5, 2024 – Craftmerce, the pioneering B2B marketplace

facilitating connections between global independent retailers and African handcrafted brands, has been chosen to join the prestigious Techstars Los Angeles accelerator program. This selection marks a significant milestone in Craftmerce’s journey to revolutionize wholesale African marketplaces and underscores its commitment to empowering artisans and fostering economic growth across the continent.

Techstars is renowned for identifying and accelerating promising startups, providing them with unparalleled resources, mentorship, and access to a global network of investors and industry leaders. With Craftmerce’s acceptance into the Techstars Los Angeles cohort, the platform is poised to experience exponential growth and impact, propelling its mission to showcase the richness of African craftsmanship on a global scale.

Craftmerce’s innovative approach addresses the longstanding challenges faced by African artisans and independent retailers alike. By leveraging technology to streamline the wholesale procurement process, Craftmerce facilitates seamless transactions,

fosters sustainable partnerships, and promotes cultural exchange between buyers and sellers worldwide.

“At Craftmerce, we are driven by a passion for celebrating African heritage and

empowering local artisans,” said Founder and CEO, Cynthia Asije. “Being accepted into Techstars Los Angeles is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our team, as well as the immense potential of the wholesale African marketplace. We are excited to leverage this opportunity to scale our platform, amplify our impact, and champion the diverse talent that defines African craftsmanship.”

Craftmerce’s participation in Techstars Los Angeles will provide invaluable mentorship from seasoned entrepreneurs, industry-specific guidance, and exposure to a vast network of investors and strategic partners. The intensive three-month program will

enable Craftmerce to refine its business model, accelerate product development, and execute growth strategies that drive scalability and sustainability.

“At Craftmerce, we believe technology can be a powerful tool for social good. Our platform update focuses on not just connecting retailers and artisans, but empowering them with the tools they need to thrive. The new search and filtering functionalities will streamline product discovery for retailers, while logistics integration will ensure a smooth and efficient fulfillment process. Additionally, data analytics will provide valuable insights to both retailers and artisans, enabling them to make data-driven decisions and optimize their businesses. We’re excited to leverage the Techstars Los Angeles program to bring these advancements to life and further our mission of building a more equitable and sustainable future for the African handicraft industry.” – Sarah Odiavbara, CTO, Craftmerce

Craftmerce’s selection for Techstars Los Angeles comes at a pivotal moment for the company and the African artisan community at large. With the rise of e-commerce and increasing demand for authentic, ethically sourced products, Craftmerce is

well-positioned to capitalize on market trends and become the premier destination for wholesale African goods.

Craftmerce offers a curated selection of handcrafted products ranging from textiles and jewelry to home décor and accessories. Each item tells a story of tradition, skill, and

creativity, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of Africa. By connecting retailers with verified artisans, Craftmerce enables businesses to access high-quality, unique merchandise while supporting sustainable livelihoods and preserving artisanal

traditions.

In addition to its marketplace platform, Craftmerce is committed to fostering community engagement and social impact initiatives. Through partnerships with local cooperatives, NGOs, and educational institutions, Craftmerce empowers artisans with resources, training, and market access, driving economic development and promoting social inclusion across Africa.

Craftmerce’s participation in Techstars Los Angeles represents a milestone not only for the company but for the entire wholesale African marketplace ecosystem. By leveraging technology, innovation, and strategic partnerships, Craftmerce is poised to reshape the narrative around African craftsmanship, unlock new opportunities for artisans, and inspire a global audience with the beauty and authenticity of African-made products.