ZoCool: Wear Awareness, Share Acceptance

About this idea

ZoCool is more than a clothing brand—it’s a movement. Founded by a 11-year-old entrepreneur, ZoCool creates bold, stylish, and witty apparel that challenges misconceptions about autism and neurodiversity. Our designs use humor, vibrant graphics, and empowering statements to foster awareness and inclusivity. Through online sales (Shopify, TikTok, Facebook), artisan markets in Grand Rapids, and pop-up shops, ZoCool is bringing autism awareness into everyday culture. By wearing ZoCool, individuals make a statement that being different is not just okay—it’s cool.

Impact

ZoCool is normalizing conversations about autism and neurodiversity through fashion. Our designs help autistic individuals express themselves, educate the public, and shift the narrative around neurodivergence. Each purchase supports awareness initiatives and directly contributes to reducing stigma. This brand isn’t about fashion—it’s about making neurodiversity a visible and celebrated part of society through everyday wear and conversation. ZoCool is for kids who feel different, helping them see that they don’t have to feel weird or like an outcast because they are unique. It’s about making sure no child feels ashamed or embarrassed for being on the spectrum—instead, they can feel proud, confident, and celebrated for who they are.

What I'll do with $5,000

The $5,000 will be used to produce our first official ZoCool t-shirt collection, including professional screen printing, packaging, and branded materials. This funding will allow us to launch during Autism Awareness Month with strong visibility and momentum. We’ve identified a local, minority-owned screen-printing business to produce our apparel, supporting both quality and community-based growth. With this investment, we will: • Produce our first full t-shirt collection with high-quality screen printing and branded packaging – $2,000 • Launch our Shopify website and integrate with TikTok Shop for a seamless e-commerce experience – $1,000 • Host our first pop-up event at the Grand Rapids arts marketplace, covering vendor fees and display materials – $750 • Run a targeted digital marketing campaign to drive online sales and boost brand awareness – $750 • Create professional branding assets (photos, videos, graphics) for marketing and online content – $500 This investment will provide the foundation to scale ZoCool into a sustainable, impactful brand that amplifies neurodivergent voices and sparks real conversation through bold, relatable fashion.

Quick Bio

My name is Zo. I’m 11, I thought of this business idea when I was 9. This idea and brand is important to me because I don’t want other kids to feel bad for having a disability or being different.

Links

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