Social Enterprise

Global Ties Akron’s social enterprises empower local and global artisans, bridging creativity with the Akron community through sustainable business.

Our programs provide training and retail opportunities, bringing the beauty of global craftsmanship right to our home.

Global Ties Akron’s social enterprise initiatives empower local cultural and global artisans, connecting global creativity with the Akron community through sustainable entrepreneurship and storytelling.

Our programs provide artisans with the training, mentorship, and retail opportunities needed to grow their small businesses while giving our community a chance to experience the beauty of global craftsmanship, right here at home.

global threads boutique

Located in Downtown Akron’s Northside Marketplace, Global Threads Boutique is a social enterprise retail store operated by Global Ties Akron.

The boutique features one-of-a-kind, handmade products from local cultural artisans as well as artisans connected through our international network.

By shopping at Global Threads Boutique, you directly contribute to economic empowerment for artisans from around the world while helping preserve traditional crafts and cultural heritage.

Each artisan shares the cultural traditions and craftsmanship that reflect their heritage through the products we market and sell, creating meaningful opportunities for cultural exchange and global awareness.

Support culture and art

When you support Global Ties Akron’s social enterprise programs, you’re helping local artisans share their heritage, earn income, and build connections across cultures.

Through our Artrepreneurs Program, funded by the Women’s Endowment Fund, ArtsNow, and individual donors, we provide training in business development, marketing, and creative entrepreneurship.

SOCIAL ENTERPRISE IN DOWNTOWN AKRON

Each year, artisans complete workshops that culminate in public showcases and ongoing sales opportunities at the Global Threads Boutique, located in the
Northside Marketplace, and local Fair Trade Shows (pictured below).

From handwoven textiles and jewelry to ceramics and home décor, every purchase tells a story of resilience, creativity, and connection between cultures.

OUR Artrepreneurs

Global Ties Akron’s Artrepreneurs are creative professionals and small business owners who bring global perspectives to our local economy. Their crafts reflect a blend of traditional techniques, personal stories, and modern innovation, enriching Akron’s cultural landscape.

Global Ties Akron’s Artrepreneurs are creative professionals and small business owners who bring global perspectives to our local economy.

Their crafts reflect a blend of traditional techniques, personal stories, and modern innovation, enriching Akron’s cultural landscape.

Artist Name

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Social Enterprise

Social Enterprise

global threads boutique

Support culture and art

SOCIAL ENTERPRISE IN DOWNTOWN AKRON

OUR Artrepreneurs

Artist Name

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Artist Name

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Artist Name

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Artist Name

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SHOP & SUPPORT