Written By: Patrick David Sawyer:
At Pisgah Banjos, we believe that craftsmanship and ethics go hand in hand. That’s why we are incredibly proud to be Living Wage Certified by Just Economics. This certification reflects our commitment to providing fair wages, supporting our workers, and ensuring that our team members can thrive—not just survive.
But what does it mean to be Living Wage Certified, and why is it so important?
What is a Living Wage?
A living wage is the minimum income necessary for a worker to meet their basic needs, including housing, food, healthcare, and other essentials—without relying on government assistance or working excessive hours. Unlike the federal minimum wage, which often falls short of covering real-life expenses, a living wage is calculated based on the actual cost of living in a specific area.
Just Economics, a nonprofit based in Western North Carolina, is one of the largest living wage certification programs in the U.S., advocating for fair pay and economic sustainability. Their Living Wage Certification recognizes businesses that voluntarily commit to paying wages that reflect the true cost of living.
Why It Matters
Supporting living wage businesses isn’t just about ethics—it’s about building a stronger, more sustainable economy where workers are valued, local communities thrive, and quality craftsmanship is rewarded.
For Pisgah Banjos, this means:
- Attracting and retaining skilled artisans – Crafting high-quality banjos requires experience, dedication, and passion. Paying a living wage ensures that our team members can focus on their craft without financial stress.
- Boosting local economies – When workers earn fair wages, they reinvest in their communities, supporting local businesses, schools, and services.
- Promoting industry change – The musical instrument manufacturing world, like many industries, has long relied on low wages and outsourced labor to cut costs. By committing to fair pay, we are proving that there’s a better way to do business.
A Rare Commitment in the Music Industry
Despite the importance of fair wages, very few musical instrument manufacturers have taken the step to become Living Wage Certified. Pisgah Banjos is honored to be one of only a handful of instrument makers in the country to hold this certification. We hope to set an example for other manufacturers—proving that ethical business practices and high-quality craftsmanship are not only possible but essential.
Supporting Ethical Craftsmanship
When you choose a Pisgah Banjo, you’re not just getting a beautifully handcrafted instrument—you’re supporting a company that values its workers, community, and sustainability. Every instrument we build reflects our dedication to fair wages, ethical manufacturing, and timeless craftsmanship.
We’re grateful to Just Economics for their work in advocating for fair pay and to our customers for supporting a better way to do business. Together, we can make a difference—one banjo at a time.
