Trade & Partnerships
Working Together to Build the Future of Heritage Textiles
Beginning in Nigeria with Aṣọ̀-Òkè, Woven Market Africa develops, curates, and collaborates on heritage African textiles — connecting artisan expertise to designers, brands, and collectors worldwide.
Beginning in Nigeria with Aṣọ ̀-Òkè, our work connects artisan networks, creative partners, and international buyers to build a thriving ecosystem for African textile craftsmanship.
At Woven Market Africa, collaboration sits at the center of everything we do.
Our work began by connecting designers with Aṣọ ̀-Òkè weaving communities in Nigeria, helping translate creative ideas into handwoven textiles. As these collaborations grew, it became clear that partnerships between artisans, designers, and institutions could unlock new opportunities for both
cultural preservation and economic growth.
Today, WMA works with a growing network of partners who share a commitment to craft, culture, and innovation.
Together, we are creating new pathways for heritage African textiles to thrive within the global creative economy.
Who We Work With
Designers & Creative Studios
Designers & Creative Studios
We collaborate with fashion designers, stylists, and creative studios interested in working with heritage African textiles.
Our role is to translate creative concepts into woven form by connecting designers with artisan weaving networks and supporting the textile development process.
Partnerships may include:
- Textile sourcing
- Custom textile development
- Collaborative fabric experimentation
- Limited edition textile collections
- Design translation into woven fabrics
Fashion Brands & Production Partners
Fashion Brands & Production Partners
We support brands looking to incorporate heritage textiles into their collections through responsible sourcing and collaborative production.
Working with WMA allows brands to access artisan networks while ensuring that craftsmanship, cultural integrity, and quality production are maintained.
Partnership opportunities include:
- Textile supply for collections
- Custom fabric development
- Production coordination with artisan networks
- Heritage textile capsule collections
Retailers & Textile Buyers
Retailers & Textile Buyers
WMA provides access to curated heritage textiles for retailers, textile buyers, and collectors interested in authentic handwoven fabrics.
Through our growing artisan network, we offer textiles that combine traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design possibilities.
Trade partnerships may include:
- Wholesale textile orders
- Retail collaborations
- Limited textile collections
- International sourcing support
Cultural & Institutional Partnerships
Cultural & Institutional Partnerships
We collaborate with cultural institutions, research organizations, museums, and development initiatives that support craft preservation and artisan empowerment.
Through partnerships, WMA contributes to the documentation, preservation, and advancement of African textile knowledge.
Areas of collaboration include:
- Textile research and documentation
- Cultural preservation initiatives
- Artisan training programs
- Craft development programs
- Public exhibitions and cultural programming
The WMA Partnership Approach
Connecting Craft and Design
We bridge the worlds of traditional weaving and contemporary design, allowing creative ideas to be translated into woven textiles.
Supporting Artisan Communities
By expanding production opportunities and fostering long-term relationships, we help ensure heritage craftsmanship remains economically viable.
Building Long-Term Systems
Beyond individual collaborations, WMA is working to build the infrastructure needed to support African textile craftsmanship as a sustainable industry.
Our Growing Network
Building a Global Community Around African Textiles
Woven Market Africa operates at the intersection of artisans, designers, cultural institutions, and global markets. Through partnerships, we are expanding a network that supports the growth of heritage textiles while maintaining the knowledge and traditions behind them.
Our network includes:
• Artisan weaving communities
• Fashion designers and creative studios
• Fashion brands and production partners
• Textile retailers and collectors
• Cultural and research institutions
Together, these partners form the foundation of a growing ecosystem around African textile craftsmanship.
Why Partner With WMA
- Direct relationships with artisan weaving communities
- Expertise in heritage African textiles
- Collaborative textile development for designers and brands
- Ethical production and cultural preservation
- Growing network across Nigeria and Africa
Heritage Spotlight
Let's Work Together
Whether you are a designer exploring heritage textiles, a brand seeking meaningful production partnerships, or an institution supporting cultural preservation, Woven Market Africa welcomes collaboration.
Together, we can expand opportunities for artisans, preserve textile traditions, and bring the richness of African textiles to global audiences.
Woven Market Africa exists to restore, structure, and scale Africa’s textile heritage. For generations, weaving communities across the continent have preserved extraordinary knowledge — techniques, motifs, and traditions passed through the hands of artisans.