About VAM

The Virtual Artisan Market (VAM) was born from a collaboration with Saving Orphans through Healthcare and Outreach (SOHO) to support vulnerable children in Eswatini. Developed by Andrews University’s School of Business Administration, VAM connects artisans from low-income communities with global buyers. Offering unique handcrafted products and empowering artisans with education and skills.

Bridging Artisanship and Impact

The inception of VAM began through collaboration with the Indianapolis-based nonprofit SOHO in late 2022. SOHO’s mission is to aid vulnerable children affected by AIDS/HIV in Eswatini, seeking sustainable solutions for their safety, education, and health.

The School of Business Administration at Andrews University embraced this challenge. Various classes within the school united their efforts to create a sustainable business model. This model would support SOHO’s initiatives and communities. Consequently, their collaboration culminated in the creation of the Virtual Artisan Marketplace Project.

Our Mission

VAM’s mission is to create a global platform that connects artisan groups from lower-income communities with the global market. By showcasing and selling their unique, handcrafted products, VAM aims to provide artisans with sustainable income opportunities. While also offering buyers around the world access to unique goods with rich cultural heritage. Beyond commerce, VAM is committed to empowering these communities through literacy, business education, and life skills training. Addressing the root causes of poverty and creating lasting change.

Empowerment Through Artisanship

Virtual Artisan Market showcases collaboration, innovation, and social entrepreneurship, empowering local artisans and their communities. Through VAM, artisans find a marketplace for their crafts and access educational programs, enriching lives. Every purchase on VAM brings joy to buyers and directly supports artisan communities’ welfare and development.

Join Our Journey

Join us in VAM’s journey of empowerment and transformation as we grow and evolve. Whether you are an artisan looking to share your work with the world, a customer seeking unique and meaningful products, or a partner interested in supporting our mission. Everyone has a place in the Virtual Artisan Market family where we make a difference, one community at a time.

Welcome to VAM – where every purchase is an investment in a brighter future.