How did Akira Isogawa initially finance his business?

Akira Isogawa initially financed his business through self-financing. This approach allowed him to maintain complete control over his creative vision and the direction of his fashion label without the influence or restrictions that can come with borrowing from banks, accepting grants, or taking on investors. Self-financing often involves using personal savings or funds accrued from previous work, enabling individuals like Isogawa to establish their businesses on their terms. By choosing this method, Isogawa was able to invest in materials and resources that reflected his distinctive design style, grounding his reputation as a leading figure in the fashion industry.

In contrast, bank loans would typically require repayment with interest and may risk the individual’s financial stability if business revenues do not meet expectations. Grants can be competitive and may come with stipulations that could affect creative decisions. Investor financing often means sharing profits or control, which might not align with the aspirations of an emerging designer wanting to maintain their artistic integrity.