Trades of Hope is a fair-trade, multi-level marketing (MLM) company founded in 2010 that empowers women worldwide by selling artisan-crafted jewelry, accessories, and home decor. The company collaborates with artisans, many of whom have faced economic hardship, and aims to provide fair wages and sustainable income. This company’s approach is unique in the MLM industry for its commitment to social impact and ethical sourcing, with an emphasis on female empowerment.
How Trades of Hope Works
Members, known as Compassionate Entrepreneurs (CEs), earn income through two main avenues: product sales and team building. CEs can earn commissions starting at 25% for product sales, which can increase with rank and additional team-based bonuses. Trades of Hope operates in a manner typical of MLMs, offering income potential through both sales and recruitment, with additional perks like replicated websites and marketing materials to aid in business growth.
Pros of Joining Trades of Hope
- Ethical Mission and Positive Social Impact
Trades of Hope’s mission to support marginalized women in developing countries resonates with many. Artisans are paid fairly and gain access to essential services like healthcare and education for their families. Many members appreciate this socially responsible model, with one saying, “Being part of Trades of Hope has allowed me to make a difference, not just in my life but in the lives of women around the world”. - Supportive Community and Training
New members receive onboarding support and training materials, including access to a personal website, marketing guides, and various business tools. This system helps members effectively reach customers online, especially on platforms like Instagram and Facebook, enabling them to work remotely. - Flexibility in Sales and Events
CEs have the flexibility to hold in-person parties, pop-up sales at events, or market products entirely online. Those preferring online sales can utilize social media, which broadens their reach and allows them to work on their own schedule.
Cons of Joining Trades of Hope
- Dependency on Recruitment
As with most MLMs, a significant part of the income opportunity is linked to recruitment, which can be challenging, especially for newcomers. Some reviews note that although recruitment is not mandatory, building a team significantly impacts earning potential. This reliance can make Trades of Hope feel “similar to a pyramid scheme” to some individuals. - Limited Income Potential for Many
Like most MLMs, Trades of Hope may not be profitable for everyone. Members without established sales or recruiting skills often find income levels lower than anticipated. Reviews highlight a lack of income disclosure statements, which can make it difficult for new CEs to gauge realistic earning expectations. One review states, “It’s a great mission, but without extensive sales or recruiting, income is limited. - Monthly Fees and Product Costs
New members must pay startup fees, with kits ranging from $100 to $200, alongside a monthly $9.95 technology fee. For some, these ongoing expenses may outweigh profits, especially during slower sales periods. CEs looking to maximize sales are encouraged to purchase products upfront, which can add to the financial commitment.
Real Member Feedback
Many members appreciate the ethical mission and sense of community but advise others to manage expectations about income. A member shared, “I joined Trades of Hope because of its mission, but the income is modest unless you’re focused on building a team”..
Conclusion
Trades of Hope is a solid option for those passionate about social impact and fair trade, offering an opportunity to earn while supporting a meaningful cause. However, the income potential heavily depends on both sales efforts and recruitment, which may not suit everyone. Prospective members are encouraged to research the business model carefully and assess their comfort level with the MLM structure. For those aligned with its mission, Trades of Hope can be a fulfilling way to combine entrepreneurship with global impact.