Frequently Asked Questions
About Buttonup
WHAT IS BUTTONUP?
Buttonup is a social enterprise based in Egypt that empowers women and youth from underserved communities through craft-based training, sustainable product creation and business related Trainings.
WHAT DOES "BUTTONUP" MEAN?
The name Buttonup was inspired by the “bottom-up” approach in development — a belief that real change begins within communities themselves. We merged this idea with the image of a button, a small but powerful element that brings things together. Just like a button connects pieces of fabric, we aim to connect people, skills, and opportunities — empowering local communities through crafts.
HOW DID IT ALL START?
It began with a small group passionate about social justice and sustainable fashion. From its early days in community work to becoming a global-impact brand, Buttonup has remained committed to economic empowerment.
Shopping & Orders
WHERE ARE YOUR PRODUCTS MADE?
All products are handmade in Egypt, in places like Izzbet Khairallah and Ras Ghareb, by local artisans trained through our
programs.
DO YOU SHIP INTERNATIONALLY?
Yes! We ship globally. Shipping time depends on location, typically 7–14 business days.
WHAT'S THE SHIPPING TIMELINE WITHIN EGYPT?
Most orders arrive within 2–5 business days.
WHAT PAYMENT METHODS DO YOU ACCEPT?
We accept online payments and cash on delivery (for Egypt).
CAN I RETURN OR EXCHANGE A PRODUCT?
Yes, within 5 days of delivery if unused and in its original packaging. View our Returns Policy for more.
CAN I CUSTOMIZE A PRODUCT FOR A BULK ORDER?
Yes. For B2B orders (30 items or more), we offer custom designs with your branding. Contact us directly to get started.
DO YOU WORK INTERNATIONALLY?
Our products are sold globally, and we’re exploring international partnerships for impact scaling, exhibitions, and retail collaborations.
Training & Community Empowerment
IS BUTTONUP A NONPROFIT OR A BUSINESS?
Buttonup is a social enterprise. That means we use business tools and models to drive social impact — generating revenue while investing back into our communities.
DO YOU OFFER VOCATIONAL TRAINING?
Yes. We run structured training programs in sewing, embroidery, tally, leatherwork, and upcycling for women and youth.
WHAT IS THE TAMKENY PROJECT AND WHY IS IT IMPORTANT?
Tamkeny is a community-based empowerment model launched by Buttonup in partnership with United Energy Egypt (UEE) in 2022. It represents one of our most successful examples of how local production, vocational training, and social enterprise can come together to uplift underserved communities.
Tamkeny is more than a project, it’s a replicable model that we now use to expand into other geographic areas. By combining tailored training programs with real production and market access, it proves how bottom-up approaches can create long-lasting economic and social impact.
HOW ARE COMMUNITIES SELECTED?
We work closely with NGOs and development partners to identify areas with high need and potential. Interventions are based on participatory assessments.
CAN I VOLUNTEER OR INTERN WITH BUTTONUP?
Yes, especially if you have skills in design, marketing, training, or development. Reach out through our Contact Page.
HOW DOES BUTTONUP SUPPORT ARTISANS AFTER TRAINING?
We provide ongoing production opportunities, access to fair wages, marketing support, and mentorship. Some artisans even go on to become trainers themselves in future project rounds.
WHAT DOES A TYPICAL TRAINING PROGRAM INCLUDE?
Each program covers practical craft skills, product development, pricing, marketing, and often includes sessions on gender and environmental awareness.
Sustainability & Upcycling
WHAT IS YOUR SUSTAINABILITY APPROACH?
We integrate sustainability at every level - from eco-friendly materials to upcycled product lines using leftover fabrics and plastic banners.
HOW DOES BUTTONUP SUPPORT THE ENVIRONMENT?
Through awareness campaigns, sustainable production practices, and workshops teaching upcycling techniques to both individuals and companies.
WHAT MATERIALS DO YOU USE IN YOUR PRODUCTS?
We use locally sourced Egyptian cotton, linen, genuine leather, and upcycled materials. Many of our pieces also feature traditional embroidery like Etamin and Sinai patterns, blending heritage with modern design.
ARE ALL PRODUCTS HANDMADE?
Yes. Every item is handcrafted by artisans trained through Buttonup’s programs, ensuring authenticity, quality, and attention to detail.
Collaborations & Corporate Gifting
CAN WE COLLABORATE WITH BUTTONUP ON A PROJECT?
Absolutely. We co-create collections, run training programs, and deliver workshops with development agencies, corporates, and creative brands.
DO YOU OFFER CORPORATE GIFTS?
Yes — our team can produce custom-designed, ethically made gifts for events, holidays, or client appreciation, using local materials and artisan techniques.
CAN YOU ORGANIZE WORKSHOPS FOR OUR EMPLOYEES OR CUSTOMERS?
Yes. We’ve organized sustainability and upcycling workshops for companies, both on-site and at the Buttonup Hub.
Visiting the Hub & Showroom
WHERE IS THE BUTTONUP HUB LOCATED?
We're based in Zamalek, Cairo. The Hub is a creative space for workshops, community events, and our in-person shop
CAN I VISIT THE HUB WITHOUT ATTENDING A WORKSHOP?
Yes! The Buttonup Hub is open to visitors during working hours. You can explore our store, learn about our work, and see products being made.
CAN I ATTEND A WORKSHOP?
Yes! We host public and private workshops on upcycling, handcrafts, and sustainability.
Check our Instagram for the latest updates.
Contact & Follow Us
HOW CAN I CONTACT BUTTONUP?
You can reach us via our Contact Form, by email at info@buttonup.com, or through direct messages on Instagram.
HOW CAN I GET INVOLVED WITH BUTTONUP?
You can support by shopping, collaborating, volunteering, or even just spreading the word.
