Spotlight on Ballarat’s EcoFab: Local Entrepreneur Driving Sustainable Fashion Forward

EcoFab, a Ballarat-based sustainable fashion manufacturer founded by local entrepreneur Mia Henderson, is setting new standards in ethical apparel production on Armstrong Street North. Since opening its micro-factory in early 2025, EcoFab has grown from a two-person startup in the Central Business District to a flagship green manufacturing hub employing 18 locals.

The spotlight on EcoFab comes as consumer demand for sustainable products surges nationally and globally. Following the 2026 nationwide Telstra outage which underscored vulnerabilities in supply chains and digital connectivity, there is renewed focus on building resilient, community-rooted businesses. EcoFab’s commitment to locally sourced materials and low-carbon production aligns with broader economic shifts in Ballarat and Victoria’s regional centres.

Local Roots Strengthen Regional Boom

Located near the Ballarat Technology Park, EcoFab has leveraged regional grants from the City of Ballarat’s Business Innovation Fund, which awarded them $75,000 last December to purchase energy-efficient machinery. The company also partners with local textile waste recycler, GreenLoop Fibres on Peel Street, ensuring zero landfill from production scraps.

Henderson is also active in Ballarat’s small business ecosystem, participating in monthly workshops at the Ballarat Innovation Hub on Grenville Street that promote sustainable manufacturing practices. EcoFab recently became a founding member of the newly launched Ballarat Ethical Enterprise Network, aimed at uniting local businesses committed to social and environmental responsibility.

Concrete Growth Amid Challenges

Since its inception, EcoFab’s revenue has doubled, reaching $1.4 million in the 2025-26 financial year. The startup’s eco-friendly apparel collections retail from $80-$150 per item, and wholesale orders from Melbourne-based boutiques comprise 65% of their sales. Key government policies promoting regional economies and sustainability have helped, including Victoria’s $70 million Regional Jobs and Infrastructure Fund, which supports enterprises like EcoFab adopting green technologies.

However, the recent nationwide telecommunications outage highlighted risks for small manufacturers reliant on online sales platforms. EcoFab reported a 12% dip in direct online orders during the five-day Telstra service disruption in June, prompting Henderson to explore multi-carrier internet options and local data backup solutions in Ballarat’s digitally evolving landscape.

Looking ahead, EcoFab plans to expand its apprenticeship program in partnership with the Ballarat Secondary College’s Trades Academy to nurture skilled workers for the green economy. Henderson is also exploring collaborations with the nearby Federation University to develop sustainable fabric innovation, positioning Ballarat as a hub for ethical manufacturing.

For other local entrepreneurs, Henderson advises balancing bold innovation with deep community connections. She encourages participation in Ballarat’s Business Innovation Fund rounds and collaboration through networks like the Ethical Enterprise Network to navigate challenges and scale sustainably in the region.