(Ventura, California, USA): Founded by Yvon Chouinard in 1973, Patagonia began as a climbing equipment company before evolving into one of the world’s most respected outdoor apparel brands. From the beginning, Chouinard prioritized durability, simplicity, and environmental responsibility—values that still define the company’s DNA.
Patagonia was among the first companies to donate 1% of annual sales to grassroots environmental groups and became a founding member of 1% for the Planet. Over time, it formalized its purpose (“We’re in business to save our home planet”), became a certified B Corporation, and pioneered the use of organic cotton and recycled materials in outdoor gear.
In 2022, Chouinard and his family made headlines by giving away company ownership—transferring 100% of nonvoting shares to a nonprofit fighting climate change and 100% of voting shares to a trust safeguarding Patagonia’s values.
This extraordinary act ensures Patagonia’s profits will forever serve its mission. It also redefined what business stewardship can look like at scale: bold, unorthodox, and fully aligned with long-term planetary health.
Patagonia’s journey—from basement blacksmithing to global environmental leadership—offers powerful proof that business can be a lasting force for good.