Knot Just Cats: Exploring the Market Viability and Sustainability Impact of Handmade Novelty Products Among Youth

Proponent/s Name/s (Last Name, First Name, Middle Initial)

• Mico Isaac Copioso Marcella n/a, De La Salle UniversityFollow
• River Kyle Rogacion Fernandez, De La Salle UniversityFollow
• Milla Kai Cutchon Mijares, De La Salle UniversityFollow
• Mhar Kenneth Columbres Austria, De La Salle UniversityFollow
• Arvhy Arrianne Azur Sanchez, De La Salle UniversityFollow

Document Types

Business Presentation

Research Theme (for Paper Presentation and Poster Presentation submissions only)

Entrepreneurship, Business Management, and the Organization (EBO)

School Name

De La Salle University

Track or Strand

Accountancy, Business, and Management (ABM)

Research Advisor (Last Name, First Name, Middle Initial)

Estrada-Esguerra, Nerisse, E.

Start Date

23-6-2026 1:30 PM

End Date

23-6-2026 3:00 PM

Zoom Link/ Room Assignment

DLSU Manila Campus (In-person) - Don Enrique T. Yuchengco Hall - Y606

Abstract/Executive Summary

Knot Just Cats is a student-led social enterprise formed in 2025 by ABM students as part of an academic entrepreneurship project. The venture was created in response to the growing problem of plastic waste and unsustainable consumption among students, with the goal of offering affordable, eco-friendly novelty products that promote responsible buying habits. The company produces and markets handmade crochet cat keychains sold in a blind-box format, combining the excitement of collectible merchandise with sustainable craftsmanship. The product has been promoted through campus selling, social media marketing, and pop-up stalls, targeting students who enjoy collectible and aesthetically pleasing accessories. The venture is currently in its early operational stage, having already conducted small production batches and initial sales to test market demand. The key uniqueness of the product lies in its handmade design, sustainability focus, and surprise blind-box concept. Each keychain is made from cotton yarn and packaged using eco-friendly materials, providing an environmentally responsible alternative to mass-produced plastic collectibles. The business operates as a student partnership managed by a structured leadership team consisting of a CEO, Operations Manager, Finance Manager, Marketing Manager, Human Resource Manager, and Product Manager, each responsible for specific operational functions. The primary market includes students aged 13–30 who value affordable collectibles, creativity, and sustainability. Major competitors include student businesses such as WildBox and mass-produced novelty brands, which often lack the handmade and eco-friendly qualities of Knot Just Cats products. The venture began with approximately ₱12,500 in startup capital for production, marketing, and operations. Future financing will support expansion, with profits and reinvestment expected to sustain growth and repay investors.

Keywords

Knot Just Cats; crochet; keychains; blindbox; sustainability

Business Presentation Type (for Business Presentation submissions only)

Business Concept

Initial Consent for Publication

yes

Statement of Originality

yes