VNTR – Thomas Lundgard
VNTR
Overview
VNTR underwear (pronounced “venture”), formerly Meraki Surf, is made to fit the flow of the male body. Crafted from a special blend of modal and spandex, these are twice as soft as standard cotton underwear. And it’s all held together with flatlock stitching that won’t fall apart after wash and wear.
Founder: Thomas Lundgard
About the Founder
Thomas Lundgard grew up in Half Moon Bay, California, where he began surfing at age 15 at the legendary local surf spot called Mavericks. Now that he is in Santa Barbara, he can frequently be found catching waves at Rincon. He developed an entrepreneurial spirit by selling things on Craigslist and the drive to build a business went from there.
The Scheinfeld Center has a great program. It helped me turn an idea into reality along with overcoming the fear of public speaking.
Thomas Lundgard's Success Story
In April of 2017, Thomas Lundgard pitched his line of surf-inspired men’s underwear to a panel of judges at the 7th Annual Scheinfeld Center New Venture Challenge. His business idea, then called Meraki Surf, landed him top prize in the Collegiate Tier of the annual business plan and pitch competition, and $5,500 to continue developing his product.
After months of market research and strategy development, Lundgard decided to make a shift in his company’s branding and identity, and in December of 2017, Meraki Surf became VNTR.
Like the majority of other apparel companies, VNTR manufactures their product in China. Unlike many apparel companies, they aren’t afraid to say it. In fact, they embrace it. But finding the right manufacturing partner didn’t come easy. Lundgard and his team interviewed over 30 manufacturers in China over a period of seven months before making a decision. In the end, he finally found a facility in China that met the highest standards for quality, wages, safety, and systems, giving VNTR a responsible global trade partner.
After launching in December 2017, VNTR is projected to hit six figures in sales in 2018.
Awards & Plans for Use
2017 New Venture Challenge 1st Place Collegiate Tier
$5,500 for inventory and marketing
Product Image - VNTR
