Roberto Milk's Mission to Revolutionize the Handmade Goods Marketplace

In this episode of "Million Dollar Month," hosts Brian Burt and Brian Johnson sit down with Roberto Milk, founder of NOVICA, to discuss the upcoming launch of Handmade.com, a groundbreaking platform for US and international artisans. They delve into Roberto's journey, from inception to the impressive evolution of NOVICA, which connects artisans to a global audience with minimal middlemen. Roberto shares insights on Handmade's mission to emphasize storytelling and authenticity through user-generated video content, positioning itself as a unique contender against platforms like Etsy. The conversation highlights the logistical efficiency of the new platform, including shipping partnerships with DHL and FedEx, and the reinforcement of quality control through international hubs. Roberto also touches on the significant role of microcredit in empowering artists, referencing collaborations with Kiva. They discuss the immense potential of Handmade.com to boost artisans' incomes and provide a meaningful cultural and economic impact globally.Tune in to hear about the transformative power of authentic handmade products and the exciting future of global e-commerce for artisans. For more, follow Roberto Milk on LinkedIn or Instagram at @robertomilk1Timestamped Overview:00:00 Intro03:27 Listening spurs entrepreneurial inspiration at Stanford.09:12 Direct artist-to-customer sales, global marketplace expansion.10:16 Etsy dealing with authenticity and drop shippers.15:45 Handmade.com supports artists with marketplace training.17:16 Artists charge more for higher quality items.19:59 Artisan apartment ships mostly to the US.24:59 Building ideas, doubts, and finding brand partners.25:49 Chasing traditional culture, art, and big dreams.29:01 Anthropological debate on culture preservation amid disappearance.32:58 Improving safety and livelihoods in Central America.37:22 Authenticity and funding crucial for successful launch.39:53 Seeking crowdfunding for $10 million next year.44:04 Unique, interactive e-commerce platform to rival Etsy.