Building Economic Opportunity Since 1994

Southwest Creations Collaborative was founded in 1994 as a sewing and handwork poverty alleviation initiative with a clear purpose: to create dignified, living-wage employment for women from low-income communities. Rooted in proven global models, the organization was built on a simple principle — when women have the opportunity to earn income, they invest first in their children and families. From its earliest days offering on-site childcare and education programs, SCC has remained committed to economic mobility, workforce development, and long-term family wellbeing.

Over three decades, Southwest Creations has employed more than 250 people and has created 45 living-wage manufacturing jobs. The organization has expanded its impact beyond employment by launching Hacia, a pre-K–12 college-readiness program serving employees’ children, achieving a 98% high school graduation rate and 95% college attendance rate. Revenue has grown from $30,000 in its early years to more than $2 million annually. Today, business operations generate more than $170,000 each year to directly support social impact programs, demonstrating that a mission-driven enterprise can deliver both economic strength and measurable community outcomes.