What is Able?
Founded in 2010 by Barrett and Rachel Ward, Able originated as a nonprofit initiative in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, aimed at empowering women through economic opportunity. Since its inception, the organization has undergone a significant structural evolution, transitioning into a for-profit benefit corporation. Headquartered in Nashville, Tennessee, the company specializes in high-quality clothing and accessories, maintaining a rigorous commitment to transparency and fair labor practices. As a benefit corporation, Able integrates its social mission directly into its operational framework, distinguishing itself from traditional retail entities by prioritizing the welfare of its workforce alongside its bottom-line performance.
How much funding has Able raised?
Able has raised a total of $1.2M across 2 funding rounds:
Debt
$350K
Debt
$816K
Debt (2020): $350K with participation from PPP
Debt (2021): $816K led by PPP
Key Investors in Able
PPP
Public-Private Partnership
What's next for Able?
With the successful acquisition of this major enterprise-level funding, Able is well-positioned to scale its operations and deepen its market penetration. The strategic allocation of this capital will likely focus on enhancing supply chain resilience and expanding the company's digital footprint to reach a broader demographic of conscious consumers. As the brand matures, the focus will shift toward optimizing its omnichannel retail strategy and further institutionalizing its impact-driven business model. This growth phase is critical for Able as it seeks to set a new industry standard for sustainable, ethical manufacturing in the global apparel sector.
See full Able company page
