Alpinecho x Purnaa
Alpinecho hats and beanies are made in partnership with Purnaa, a social enterprise and World Fair Trade Organization Guaranteed Member in Nepal with a mission to create jobs that empower marginalized people to fresh starts and fulfilled lives.
At Purnaa, staff receive technical skills training, life-skills training (budgeting, relationships, literacy, numeracy, health & nutrition), access to counselling, healthcare, and employer-matched savings in a positive work environment.
Certifications and Awards
World Fair Trade Organization Guaranteed Member
Freedom Business Alliance
CO Leadership Award
Secretary of State's Award for Corporate Excellence
Why Nepal?
"Nepali people have few good economic options. Nepal has the third lowest GDP per capita PPP in Asia and 14% of Nepali people work abroad. Foreign workers sending money home comprise 28% of Nepal’s GDP. Almost 50% of Nepalis rely on remittance from a family member working outside the country. When they return to Nepal, 57% are without a job ... An estimated 35,000 people are trafficked from Nepal each year, including 15,000 women and 5,000 girls and 44% of the population is vulnerable to slavery.
Purnaa is in Nepal to create jobs that address Nepali people’s vulnerability to exploitation, while also demonstrating ethical and sustainable business practices. Whether through earthquakes (2015), border blockades (2016), or pandemics (2020-2021), we’re committed to pressing through the challenges to see fresh starts and fulfilled lives for marginalized people in Nepal."
Excerpt from Purnaa '21–'22 Impact Report