The third edition of the CNMI Fashion Trust Grant program, presented by the Italian Fashion Chamber (CNMI), is providing crucial support for emerging designers. With the devastating impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, this program has become a lifeline for many Italian labels. According to Warly Tomei, co-founder and co-director of Camera Moda Fashion Trust, without this support, 80% of Italian labels by the new generations of designers would have disappeared due to the pandemic.
The CNMI grants are open to Italian labels producing in Italy, regardless of the designer’s nationality. This inclusivity is evident with the shortlisting of Japanese designer Satoshi Kuwata and his label Setchu for the 2023 edition of the grant. This year, the program received 76 applications, and ten names have been shortlisted for the final round, which will be held in Milan on May 25. A jury of 22 experts will select three winners, each of whom will receive a €40,000 grant and valuable mentoring support.
In addition to financial support, Camera Moda Fashion Trust also helps designers effectively manage and structure their businesses. The organization, chaired by CNMI president Carlo Capasa, brings together industry experts, including lawyers, accountants, and marketing specialists, who volunteer their expertise. They have also established a group of 40 ambassadors, high-society women who wear and showcase the creations of young designers at various events.
The 2023 edition of the grant program is co-chaired by influencer Chiara Ferragni and Elia Maramotti, brand director of Max&Co., a contemporary line under the Max Mara group and one of the program’s sponsors. Max&Co. will offer one of the winners the opportunity to create a capsule collection. The program is further supported by Fidenza Village, an Italian luxury outlet store chain owned by The Bicester Collection under the Value Retail Group.
The Bicester Collection is excited to showcase the finalists’ collections in their pop-up space called The Creative Spot, providing them with international visibility. As Myrianne Gaeta, head of communication for The Bicester Collection, expressed, the program is a concrete help for young designers and a delight to promote.
The CNMI Fashion Trust Grant program has already made a significant impact in previous years, supporting promising designers such as Act N°1, Cormio, Vitelli, Coliac, Blazè, and many others. This year, the ten finalists are Cavia, Federico Cina, Florania, Francesco Murano, Marcello Pipitone, Marco Rambaldi, Niccolò Pasqualetti, Saman Loira, Setchu, and Ssheena.
In conclusion, the CNMI Fashion Trust Grant program is an essential lifeline for emerging Italian designers. With financial support and mentoring, it enables them to overcome the challenges of the fashion industry. Thanks to the ongoing support of CNMI, Camera Moda Fashion Trust, and their sponsors, the future looks promising for the next generation of Italian fashion talent.
Useful links:
– CNMI Fashion Trust Grant Program
– The Bicester Collection
