To foster sustainable entrepreneurship, policymakers need to understand the motivations of individuals who want to start a business. GEM’s Adult Population sheds light on such motivations, one of which is to make a difference in the world.
An example of someone who started a business to impact the world is Aya Laraki, Founder of the Morocco-based startup Cuimer. She started Cuimer in 2016 to address environmental waste. The company transforms discarded fish skins into high-quality marine leather, offering the fashion industry a sustainable alternative to exotic reptile leathers.
Cuimer’s approach challenges traditional fashion industry norms, demonstrating that sustainability and style can coexist. Laraki believes that by embracing innovative materials like fish leather, the fashion industry can take a major step towards ethical consumption and environmental responsibility. Among the company’s achievements are:
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Recycled over 40 tons of fish skins, transforming potential waste into a sustainable, high-quality material.
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Offered an eco-friendly alternative to exotic leathers, reducing the demand for reptile skins in fashion.
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Collaborated with local fisheries to source fish skins responsibly, ensuring our supply chain supports sustainable practices.
"We have the power to shift the narrative and inspire others to adopt solutions that prioritize the planet,” she says.
Through Cuimer, Laraki is proving that fashion can drive meaningful change while promoting a healthier world.
As for how policymakers can support entrepreneurs in sustainable fashion, Laraki believes a few measures would be especially impactful.
“Streamlining administrative processes, simplifying regulations, and making them clearer would help us navigate requirements more efficiently,” she says. “Financial support, such as grants or incentives for companies reducing waste and promoting eco-innovation, would also be beneficial. Additionally, fostering education around sustainable sourcing practices could create a stronger ecosystem for businesses like ours.”
Aya Laraki's story was included in the GEM 2023/2024 Women's Entrepreneurship Report: Reshaping Economies and Communities.