Developing a Business Model Canvas for a Sustainable Fashion Startup

Thesis Abstract

**Abstract
** The fashion industry has faced increasing scrutiny regarding its environmental impact and sustainability practices. To address these challenges, this thesis focuses on developing a comprehensive Business Model Canvas (BMC) tailored for sustainable fashion startups. The research aims to provide a structured framework that integrates environmental and social considerations into the core business strategy of fashion startups. The study begins with an in-depth exploration of the current state of the fashion industry, highlighting the environmental and social issues that necessitate a shift towards sustainability. By examining existing business models in the fashion sector, the background of the study contextualizes the need for a more sustainable approach to entrepreneurship in this industry. The problem statement identifies the lack of standardized tools and frameworks specifically designed for sustainable fashion startups, hindering their ability to effectively integrate sustainability into their business operations. This research seeks to address this gap by developing a tailored BMC that considers the unique challenges and opportunities faced by sustainable fashion entrepreneurs. The objectives of the study include designing a BMC that incorporates environmental and social metrics, identifying key success factors for sustainable fashion startups, and providing practical guidance for entrepreneurs looking to launch or scale a sustainable fashion venture. The limitations of the study acknowledge the complexity of sustainability issues in the fashion industry and the evolving nature of market trends. The scope of the study encompasses a global perspective, drawing on case studies and best practices from sustainable fashion startups around the world. By analyzing the significance of integrating sustainability into the business model of fashion startups, this research aims to contribute to the growing body of knowledge on sustainable entrepreneurship. The structure of the thesis is organized into five chapters, beginning with an introduction that sets the context for the study and concludes with a discussion on the definition of key terms relevant to the research. Chapter two provides a comprehensive literature review that explores existing frameworks, theories, and best practices related to sustainable entrepreneurship and the fashion industry. Chapter three outlines the research methodology, including data collection methods, sampling techniques, and analysis procedures. The chapter also discusses the ethical considerations and limitations of the research process, ensuring the validity and reliability of the study findings. Chapter four presents the findings of the study, highlighting key insights from the development of the sustainable fashion BMC and its practical implications for entrepreneurs. The chapter includes a detailed discussion on the critical success factors for sustainable fashion startups and recommendations for future research in this area. Finally, chapter five offers a conclusion and summary of the thesis, emphasizing the importance of integrating sustainability into the business model of fashion startups. The abstract provides a succinct overview of the research findings, offering insight into the potential impact of the developed BMC on the future of sustainable fashion entrepreneurship. In conclusion, this thesis contributes to the field of sustainable entrepreneurship by offering a practical tool for fashion startups to align their business strategies with environmental and social sustainability goals. Through the development of a customized BMC, this research aims to empower entrepreneurs to create innovative and sustainable fashion businesses that drive positive change in the industry.