Standard checklists for starting a new business involve selecting a name, legal structure, getting an established business set up. While those business steps are important (and necessary!), we’ve learned some valuable tips for anyone specifically starting a new conscious brand or business.

Note: this is a checklist of reminders and advice for any business who is looking to establish their brand. Our focus remains on conscious brands as our niche involves working with impact-driven brands for the people and the planet.

1. Create & Utilize Sustainable Partnerships

First off, we recommend our clients to partner with leading apps, businesses and communities in sustainability. Working with a variety of partners will help you maintain a high standard of sustainable and social principles.

For instance, our client Alli Blair New York exemplifies a strong use of transparency. The brand openly shares their continued sustainable efforts towards creating a better planet and happier humanity. View her better planet and happier humanity pages for details.

Another example of a partnership if you are an online e-commerce shop is Neutrl. Neutrl partners with brands to provide a sustainable shopping experience – allowing customers to remove carbon emissions from their orders.

To sum it up, utilizing partnerships allows your business to remain connected, transparent and prepared for sustainable growth.

2. Join a Supportive Community

If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.

Second, in addition to partnerships, there are a variety of local, national and global communities to be a part of. At Isla Luna, we are certified members of 1% for the Planet. This community represents a global network of businesses, individuals and nonprofit organizations tackling our planet’s most pressing environmental issues.

By joining a community of like-minded individuals, your efforts will be challenges and your impact will be stronger. Communities can advise on business strategies, giving strategies, connect you with other non-profit, sustainable partners and more.

You can read more about Isla Luna’s commitment to sustainability here and 1% for the Planet’s here.

3. Work Towards Established Certifications

Next, it’s important to touch base on business certifications. In order to continue to establish credibility, working towards industry based certifications may help you become better recognized. With strong partnerships and community involvement, establishing certifications is the cherry on top for brand transparency.

For an example, let’s talk about, GOT certified. The GOT certification was developed by leading standard setters to define world-wide recognized requirements for organic textiles. Many organic clothing brands today utilize “organic” verbiage or may be using the term to greenwash customers.

Thus, from using raw materials, environmentally and socially responsible manufacturing, GOTS provides a true and credible assurance to the consumer.

At the end of the day, There are a variety of established certifications in a variety of industries. Continuing to learn more about recognized requirements will help you work towards a stronger recognition and more qualified brand awareness.

4. Stay True to Your Mission

Lastly, never forget why you started. As a business owner, it’s challenging not to get caught up in the day-to-day of running a business.

All in all, take regular reflective moments to remember what you are working towards and the positive impact you are making. We thank you for your commitment and are looking towards working with more brands like yours.