Guwahati: In a compelling interview on Business North East, Barsha Sharma, founder of Ezaar Collective, shed light on her pioneering venture that transforms fabric waste into stylish and practical accessories. Sharma's initiative addresses both environmental concerns and socio-economic development by utilizing waste generated from Assam's handloom industry.
Ezaar Collective, established three to four years ago, focuses on creating utility products, predominantly bags, from fabric waste. Sharma’s decision to start the brand stemmed from a notable issue she observed in Assam: a significant amount of valuable handloom waste that was going to waste. By converting this waste into daily-use products, Ezaar Collective not only tackles the problem of waste management but also contributes to the local economy by providing employment and skill development opportunities.
Ezaar Collective’s innovative approach has garnered significant attention. The start-up has been recognized under the Indian Institute of Management's IIMCIP as one of the top 120 start-ups in Northeast India and recently received accolades from Hub, Jorhat, and Don Bosco, marking it as one of the top five startups in the region. The company has also been supported by grants from various initiatives, including a 1.5 lakh rupees grant from Hub jorhat and a 3 lakh rupees grant under the Weekly Scheme, which have been instrumental in expanding their operations.
What sets Ezaar Collective apart is its commitment to upcycling fabric waste, a practice relatively rare in the Northeast. Unlike other brands that use new materials, Ezaar Collective’s products are made from fabric waste, which includes handloom offcuts that might otherwise end up in landfills. Sharma emphasized that their designs incorporate a unique element of Assamese handloom, blending traditional craftsmanship with modern utility.
The team behind Ezaar Collective includes Sharma and her husband, who manage the business's design, operations, and financial aspects, respectively. They also work with interns and a design specialist from NIFT, Ahmedabad. Additionally, Sharma’s network includes artisans in two clusters in Assam and Borpeta, supported by artisanal NGOs. The brand employs local women, enhancing their skills and providing them with valuable opportunities.
Ezaar Collective’s products are available both within Northeast India and internationally. The brand’s range includes makeup pouches, foldable tote bags, laptop sleeves, and more. They also cater to bulk orders for organizations, evidenced by recent collaborations with brands like Indian Weavers Alliance and DART Studio.
Initially bootstrapped, Ezaar Collective has now secured funding through various grants, which have been crucial for scaling their operations. The company’s revenue reached 6 lakhs in the past six months, with a portion derived from business-to-business transactions. They continue to seek more bulk orders and partnerships to further their growth.
Sharma’s vision extends beyond immediate success. She aims to continue developing sustainable products while also expanding their reach to more organizations and institutions. Her commitment to reducing fabric waste and empowering local artisans underscores the brand’s dedication to both environmental sustainability and social responsibility.
As Ezaar Collective continues to make strides in the fashion and sustainability sectors, Sharma's work exemplifies how entrepreneurial innovation can drive positive change. By turning waste into valuable products, Ezaar Collective is not only contributing to a cleaner environment but also setting a precedent for sustainable business practices in the region.
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