We're Not Retail, We're Revolutionary

Recently, we had the distinct displeasure of engaging in a phone conversation with a foundation here in New England. Before the call, it was exciting to think a local philanthropic foundation might not only grasped our innovative business model, but may also want to support Maternova as we scale globally. After the call, we realized the need to clarify again, that innovations will not reach end users unless they have a champion and are marketed!

It may be my enthusiasm for what we do here, but I feel the compunction to put in writing the inevitable confusion that ensued and our dismay over being told ‘no’ after only a fifteen minute conversation.

The haze surrounding our business model needs to be lifted. Please allow me to break this down into the simplest terms, so that we can all move forward. Maternova, Inc. is a social enterprise that is a for profit entity. We bring products to market that may never be commercialized were it not for us. By participating in the product trials, marketing, and even the regulatory approvals, Maternova is the trusted ally of many innovators. This trust results in our obtaining a favorable price point, and in many cases exclusive territories.

Let me be very clear – Maternova is **NOT** making a profit on women and newborns in jeopardy. Additionally, our prices (please feel free to do some checking), are below retail from the manufacturer. Do we have to mark them up? Yes. Are they still more affordable through us and in customized bundles than anywhere else? Absolutely. Do we spend upwards of 100+ hours per product to properly register, package, and ship with all customs fees and brokers fees paid by Maternova? Yes.

So, there is your answer, we are not lining our pockets taking money from vulnerable and venerable caregivers. We operate on occasion at a loss to save women and children. Any statement to the contrary is untrue.

I hope this provides some much needed clarity. As we are surging ahead, we’ve also launched a non-profit entity, [Maternova Research](http://maternova.net/announcing-maternova-research-non-profit-affiliate-maternova). The difference between the two is the 501c3 is going to house the highly coveted Innovation Index, and allow us to build it out even more. It takes hundreds of hours to compile our database. In order to successfully improve an already renowned resource we NEED funding in the form of donations. The donations are tax deductible, and will be greatly appreciated.

I hope this lifts the veil on what we are, and why we are bothering to explain it here. We’re innovative and nimble and we are NOT retail – we’re revolutionary. Thank you!

a.e.cote 8/2013