Finding Factories
A list of factories
Useful Resources
Here are our top resources and community workshop on manufacturing:
- Domestic Manufacturing Office Hours with Jen Guarino & Janay Brower, in partnership with Michigan Outdoor Recreation Industry Office & Pure Michigan Business Connect
- Finding the Right Domestic Production Partner – A guide detailing the steps to identify reliable domestic manufacturers.
- CFDA Production Directory – An open-access directory of over 300 U.S. fashion manufacturers to help brands connect with local manufacturing resources.
- Maker's Row – A platform that connects businesses with American manufacturers, particularly those specializing in small-batch production.
- OTEXA U.S.A. Sourcing & Products Directory – A directory assisting buyers in sourcing U.S.-made textiles, apparel, footwear, and travel goods from U.S. vendors.
- Pure Michigan Business Connect - get matched with Michigan manufacturers
Recommended Tools
Here are some tools recommended by founders to help streamline the factory-finding process:
- ImportGenius – A tool that tracks global shipping activity to help find manufacturers by showing import-export data.
- ImportYeti – A free search engine that allows users to find trusted suppliers by searching U.S. Customs sea shipment records.
- Alibaba – A global marketplace for connecting with manufacturers, with options to verify supplier credentials.
- ThomasNet – A U.S.-focused database of industrial suppliers and manufacturers.
- MFG.com – A platform for connecting manufacturers with businesses that need production services.
- Jiga – A modern platform for sourcing manufacturers with transparent pricing and collaboration tools.
- Foursource – A digital sourcing platform connecting apparel brands with manufacturers globally.
- Matchory – A platform that makes introductions to factories, providing data-driven supplier matching.
- ISPO - Find factories by seeing who has attended large trade shows such as ISPO and more
- Sqetch (factories in Europe)
Founded Outdoors Community Tips and Insights
Entrepreneurs from our community have shared the following insights based on their experiences sourcing factories:
- Tap Into Your Network for Trusted Referrals – Getting recommendations from other founders can save time and help avoid unreliable manufacturers. Referrals often lead to better service and pricing.
- Verify Factory Credentials and Experience – Don't rely on claims alone. Request samples, check previous clients, and look for third-party certifications to ensure the factory can meet your quality standards.
- Negotiate Minimum Order Quantities (MOQs) – If a factory’s MOQ is too high, discuss ways to reduce it by proving long-term potential or adjusting materials and designs.
- Start with a Small Test Run – Avoid costly mistakes by placing a small batch order to evaluate production quality, timelines, and communication before committing to larger volumes.
- Visit the Factory or Hire a Local Representative – A factory visit provides first-hand insight into working conditions and production processes. If travel isn’t an option, consider hiring a local quality control expert.
- Establish Clear Communication from the Start – Consistent and proactive communication with the manufacturer ensures expectations are met. Miscommunication often leads to production delays and costly errors.
- Use a Third-Party Quality Inspector – An independent quality control service can check products before they leave the factory, reducing defects and ensuring consistency.
- Understand Pricing and Hidden Costs – Clarify pricing structures, including shipping, tariffs, and additional customization fees, to avoid unexpected costs.
- Leverage Online Databases for Supplier Research – Use platforms like ImportYeti and ImportGenius to analyze factory shipment history and verify their credibility.
- Build a Long-Term Relationship – Treat your factory as a partner rather than just a vendor. Establishing trust, fair negotiations, and regular check-ins lead to better service and product consistency.
Vendors
Below are specific vendors recommended by founders for sourcing manufacturers:
- Portland Garment Factory – A well-known textile manufacturer specializing in small-batch and sustainable clothing production.
- Dragon Innovation – A firm that helps hardware startups find and manage electronics and injection molding manufacturers.
- Protolabs – A trusted supplier for rapid prototyping and low-volume manufacturing in plastics and metals.
- Shenzhen Electronics Hub – A network of electronics manufacturers based in Shenzhen, China, specializing in PCB assembly and electronic components.
- Xometry – A go-to platform for custom metal fabrication, CNC machining, and 3D printing services.
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