Saltwater Stories was born from a deep-rooted passion for social impact and storytelling, ignited during a life-changing rural development fellowship in India. During the COVID-19 pandemic, founder Sumana Palle left the tech industry to work with socioeconomically vulnerable, tribal farmers in the remote desert region of Rajasthan. This transformative experience highlighted the power of narrative in driving meaningful change and the importance of supporting communities to tell their own stories. Saltwater Stories was established to amplify the voices of underrepresented groups, help nonprofits communicate their missions effectively, and support sustainable development. Our mission is to bridge the gap between communities and the wider world, fostering a more connected and compassionate society.

RootCraft, the retail division of Saltwater Stories, is an extension of our commitment to social impact and sustainability. By curating and selling unique, ethically sourced handmade products from vulnerable communities worldwide, RootCraft provides a platform for artisans to reach a broader audience. This initiative not only supports the economic development of these communities but also celebrates and preserves their cultural heritage. Through RootCraft, we aim to create a sustainable value chain that benefits both the artisans and consumers, ensuring fair compensation and promoting ethical consumption. RootCraft embodies the core values of Saltwater Stories, bringing our mission to life through every product we offer.