Our Founder Story
If someone told me a few years ago that 100+ families in the Philippines would be set free from poverty and the risk of trafficking because people were buying coconut oil, I would have said "No chance!"
How It Started
A decade ago we started working with nonprofits to stop trafficking in one of the poorest regions of the Philippines. But the donation-based model wasn't enough!
The Root Problem
—
A lack of job opportunities is what puts people at risk of trafficking. If families don't have income, they have to split up to find work and are often trafficked in the process by those taking advantage of the vulnerable. Donations never addressed the economic root of the problem.
Families Lost Dignity
—
Culturally, it is frowned upon to accept money without doing anything in return. It felt like an insult for families to receive donations.
Not Sustainable
—
If donations stopped, the change stopped. How could we impact future generations after money ran out?
Our Impact
So, we pivoted and created a business with the heart of a nonprofit that would have a holistic impact.
You may have heard us refer to Dignity Made as a "social impact business". That means we're a for-profit business that uses profits for community development efforts such as education, clean water projects, and skills training, on top of lifting employees out of poverty with fair wages.
Better for
Farmers
—
Direct trade with farmers ensures fair prices by cutting out middlemen and allowing farmers to receive a better income for their hard work. This creates stronger, more sustainable partnerships, benefiting both farmers and consumers with ethically sourced, high-quality products.
Better for
Employees
—
At-risk Filipinos are provided with safe and meaningful jobs, offering them stability and a chance to thrive. These opportunities not only protect them from exploitation but also empower them to build better futures for themselves and their families.
Better for the Earth
—
We take sustainability seriously—from partnering with farmers in the Philippines who practice organic farming, to ensuring that our products are made with recyclable materials. Every step of our process is designed to reduce our environmental impact while empowering communities.
Better for
You
—
Enjoy the purest coconut oil, knowing that every purchase makes a difference. By choosing Dignity Made, you're not only receiving high-quality coconut oil, but you're also helping to provide safe and meaningful jobs to at-risk communities in the Philippines. It’s a purchase you can feel proud of—making a positive impact with every use.
Better for you,
better for all
Choosing Dignity Made products are “Better for You” because years of time and attention are given to ensure all products are made with quality and care, so customers get the best!
Our products are also “Better for All” because of the positive impact on the farmers and makers.
It’s not enough to say, “We’re going to give you a fish so you can eat today.” It’s also not enough to say, “We’ll teach you how to fish,” because most of these farmers already have skills and knowledge. The real problem is they don’t have access to the lake.
Erik Olson, CEO of Dignity Made
