How Startups Grow with media partnerships

Combat Flip Flops is a social impact e-commerce business founded in January 2012 by veteran Matt Griffin and co-founders Donald Lee and Andy that manufactures and sells tactical lifestyle products (flip-flops, shemas, cashmere wraps) made by entrepreneurs in conflict areas like Afghanistan. The company grew from $5,000 initial investment to $300,000+ in 2015 sales and $400,000+ in early 2016, with a goal of $1.4M annually, while donating 10% of margins to women's education in Afghanistan. Growth was driven through strategic media relations with military/tactical blogs, a simple e-commerce website, Facebook affiliate marketing, and a compelling veteran-led mission.