ON - Omidyar Network

• Photos (6)

By connecting buyers in the U.S. with artisans in developing countries, World of Good, Inc. demonstrates the power of markets to help develop economies in sustainable ways.  

Why We Invested

World of Good Inc. creates opportunities for marginalized artisans around the world to gain access to a rapidly growing segment of consumers who want to make informed, educated, and socially-responsible decisions when they shop. The company consists of a wholesale program of fair trade products sold in more that 1,200 U.S. stores; an online marketplace, where online consumers can shop for thousands of products that positively impact people and the planet; and a signature product line.

In September 2008, World of Good, Inc. partnered with eBay to launch the world’s largest online marketplace (WorldofGood.com by eBay) of ethically-sourced, environmentally-friendly products. The platform created a global marketplace for sellers from all over the world to market their wares directly to mainstream buyers. Through this site and other market-based solutions, World of Good, Inc. mitigates poverty, encourages accountability from sellers, and provides consumers with greater trust in the impact of their purchases.

Impact

• Worked with more than 6,000 artisans in 34 countries
• In 2007, counted 1,162 customers of its wholesale program
• WorldofGood.com by eBay represents products from more than 85 countries