As it does for many entrepreneurs, Hannah’s story started at a point in her life in which she wasn’t sure where to turn next. She had just finished her contract to teach English in China, and didn’t know what came next – until she decided that she wanted to start a business. Inspired by the canvas shoes worn by Chinese workers, she decided to bring this style to Western markets and started a company called BANGS. Her company sells canvas shoes with creative designs meant to “support people in their adventures”.
In a TEDxTalk, Hannah Davis spoke about the mission and purpose of the company. She founded the company on the mission of “help”. The company name was inspired by the character for “help” in Mandarin, which reveals the overall mission – which is to help entrepreneurs. As Hannah explained it, her entrepreneurial journey to create shoes to fuel adventure actually helps people overcome financial dependence on third parties through their contribution of 20% of their proceeds to helping entrepreneurs start businesses around the world.
This company is an amazing example of starting a company with a mission to serve rather than a desire to make profits. Her company is growing exponentially – the company was recently put on Nordstrom.com! We need more companies with this commendable mission to continue helping make the world a better place through unique value propositions.
This is so neat! I love how the business began with not knowing where to go next; it seems being lost is such an opportunity for pursuing something new and exciting. I also love how noble her vision is. Hannah Davis combined her unique experiences and care for humanity to pursue entrepreneurship that would help so many people.