en
Canada
In 2017, Genevieve St-Amour turned her deep concern for the environment into a business with purpose. Drawing on her academic background in environmental health and a strong desire to change consumption habits, she founded Eco Loco in Quebec. What started as a venture focused on eco-responsible clothing soon evolved into something far more impactful: a business that offers sustainable everyday products to both individuals and organizations.
“We create eco-responsible solutions for citizens and companies,” Genevieve explains. “Everything we offer helps avoid single-use items and reduce waste in practical, tangible ways.”
A Shift Toward Supply Chain Solutions
Eco Loco’s model combines retail, wholesale, and custom manufacturing. By designing and producing promotional items from locally sourced and recycled materials, the company helps other businesses—and even governments—align with sustainable procurement goals.
One of the company’s most notable milestones came when Eco Loco was selected by the Canadian federal government to supply tote bags for G7 Summit delegates. The project, which involved turning over 3,000 recycled plastic bottles into 750 high-quality bags, showcased the company’s values in action: circular economy principles, local job creation, and ethical production.
“Every step of production was designed to maximize local benefits and minimize environmental impact,” says Genevieve. The textile was knitted in Montreal using recycled bottles. Labels, printing, and assembly were also completed within Quebec, reinforcing Eco Loco’s commitment to transparent and local supply chains.
Certification, Credibility, and Connection
As a WEConnect International-Certified women-owned business, Eco Loco has seen its credibility—and its connections—grow significantly.
“Being recognized and certified by WEConnect International clearly increases our notoriety and credibility,” Genevieve says. “It enables us to network with women who, more often than not, live a reality similar to our own. We can join forces to rally our strengths.”
That visibility has been a key ingredient in Eco Loco’s expansion into B2B markets, helping the company meet a growing demand for ESG-aligned purchasing and sustainable promotional goods.
Growth Rooted in Values
Eco Loco is on track to double its revenue this year—and plans to do it again next year. That growth is fueled by a rising interest in sustainable sourcing and by corporate buyers looking to invest in trusted, locally made alternatives.
And yet, growth hasn’t come without challenges. Managing cash flow, particularly to support increasing inventory demands, has tested the business. Still, Genevieve remains focused on the bigger picture. “The more we grow, the more liquidity management becomes an issue,” she notes. “But our growing customer base is a strong sign that we’re on the right path.”
Advice for Fellow Entrepreneurs
Genevieve believes that openness is key to business success. “Be open—to others, to experience, to change, to adaptation,” she says.
Her story is a testament to that mindset. From pivoting her business model to scaling sustainably and seizing high-profile opportunities, Genevieve has built Eco Loco into more than a business—it’s a driver of economic opportunity and environmental change.
Learn more about Eco Loco at www.ecoloco.ca
