Mechanism
Civic and Social OrganizationsNew York, United States11-50 Employees
Mechanism is a Brooklyn-based nonprofit in the civic and social sector that collaborates with communities and manufacturers to develop local production networks aimed at boosting resilience, vitality, and well-being. It positions itself as a home for individuals shaping local economies that recognize the interdependence of people, place, and planet, using craft and innovation to strengthen community identity and resilience. The organization anchors its approach in enduring values—strong labor standards, family-sustaining wages, safe and healthy workplaces, and community ownership—and translates these into practical strategies addressing local needs and building solidarity across networks. In the civic and social space, Mechanism acts as a facilitator of locally anchored production systems rather than a traditional service provider. It is based in Brooklyn and engages with communities and broader networks to connect local practice with wider labor and sustainability objectives. In May 2026, Mechanism hosted a national gathering in partnership with the City of Philadelphia's Department of Commerce, with ISAIC staff participating in the event.