Oakland has designated October as Manufacturing Month, focused exclusively on promoting local manufacturers and showcasing the industry to future workforces and the community through various events. During this Manufacturing Month, local manufacturers held an exclusive tour for VIP guests, highlighting an innovative bio-composite manufacturing system that transforms waste into usable products, contributing to the production of new items within a circular economy.

Among the participating companies is Artefact, an East Bay startup that has pioneered an advanced manufacturing system designed to be lightweight and cost-effective, utilizing clean, recycled materials. The system aims to bring production back from overseas, using agricultural by-products from California’s Central Valley. It also incorporates digital control in product graphics, enabling intricate designs and artworks in rigid products like eyewear.

Another noteworthy participant is Oaklandish, a prominent streetwear brand. Additionally, Kay Chesterfield, a century-old renovation company in Oakland, has emerged as a leader in furniture reuse and waste reduction in the Bay Area.

Artefact has teamed up with these two businesses to launch a new eyewear collection for the holiday season, utilizing leftover materials that would have otherwise ended up in a landfill.

The Mayor’s Office of Oakland emphasizes that the city has become a hub for climate technology innovation in the Bay Area, housing numerous climate startups funded by both federal and state governments. These companies, located near the heart of American steel production, are engaged in critical areas such as new battery technologies, carbon capture and storage, and the production of low or zero-emission concrete. The partnerships championed by Artefact illustrate how even small local businesses and workers can benefit from advancements in climate technology in Oakland.

Council President Nikki Fortunato Bas expressed pride in supporting West Oakland and its many startups dedicated to climate change research and development. These companies are focused on developing healthier alternatives to outdated and polluting manufacturing processes, bringing employment and economic growth to the community.

Ethan Escowitz, CEO of Artefact, remarked that this collaboration showcases how small to medium-sized enterprises are becoming key players in relocating clean, sustainable, and high-value manufacturing back to American communities.