Hand Made Stone wants to have a positive impact in Asia.
Known for its patented composite stone technology, the Turkish company has been selected as one of the four startups to join The Amplifier, a high-impact mentorship program designed to accelerate the growth of mission-driven ventures across Asia.
Founded by the Philanthropy Asia Alliance (PAA) and the Centre for Impact Investing and Practices (CIIP), The Amplifier brings together philanthropists, investors, industry leaders, and global standard setters to tackle the region’s most pressing sustainability challenges. This year, the program selected winners for three tracks: innovation and circularity in the textile value chain; sustainability transformation for SME suppliers in tourism; and unlocking opportunities an breaking down barriers to employment.
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Over the next 12 months, HMS will gain access to mentorship, commercial opportunities, business and legal advisory, digital tools, and physical resources such as co-working spaces and wet labs, support designed to help early-stage companies overcome common obstacles that startups face.
HMS is a circular alternative to pumice that eliminates toxic sludge and delivers consistent, repeatable denim finishes. It requires 20 percent less water per load than pumice stones and reduces the need for frequent stone changes. The company launched in 2020 and denim giants Levi Strauss & Co. and Kontoor Brands as clients.
The large scale of Asia’s denim industry means the company’s impact can be transformative. By replacing outdated and harmful practices, HMS aims to empower brands, laundries and mills to achieve both environmental and commercial goals.
“At HMS, our mission has always been to prove that denim can be beautiful without being destructive,” said Beyza Baykan, HMS founder. “Being part of The Amplifier validates the urgent need for sludge-free, water-saving solutions in fashion and gives us the platform to scale faster, with the guidance of global impact leaders.”
HMS selected from more than 95 applicants. Earlier this year, HMS won first prize in the Techstyle for Social Good Global Innovation Challenge organized by The Mills Fabrica. The grand prize included mentorship from the sustainable materials science company Pangaia, complimentary office space in London, and incubation by The Mills Fabrica.
