Evo Fashion, a collaborative initiative between London’s Fashion District and The Trampery’s Evo Learning arm, is gearing up to launch an extensive five-month innovation program. The primary objective of this program is to empower sustainable fashion brands and fashion technology businesses by equipping them with the necessary skills and resources to overcome challenges in the industry.
The program offers participants valuable industry insights, high-impact training, and networking opportunities to address the specific obstacles faced by emerging fashion labels. These challenges include integrating sustainable business models, securing early-stage financing, and gaining recognition in the competitive global fashion industry.
Evo Fashion has garnered support from influential organizations including the British Fashion Council, the Mayor of London, and London & Partners. With such support, the initiative seeks to enable fashion entrepreneurs to achieve their business goals, enhance ethical working standards, and establish sustainable supply chains.
The program will run at The Trampery’s Hampton Wick workspace in east London, designed to accommodate participants’ work commitments. Each brand selected for the program will receive fully-funded support valued at over £2,500. The extensive program includes a two-day launch weekend, monthly leadership mentoring, interactive workshops facilitated by industry experts, and opportunities for investment and growth.
Well-known experts and guest speakers including sustainability and luxury expert Vanessa Podmore, people coach Tom Farrand from Human Energy, circular fashion designer Phoebe English, and Sustainable Angle’s Creator and Consultant Amanda Johnston will guide and inspire participants throughout the program.
The selection process for the program will be based on four main criteria: business profile, growth potential, positive social and environmental impact, and commitment to inclusivity and diversity. The judging panel comprises industry experts, such as Yvie Hutton, Director of Designer Relations & Membership for the BFC, Bianca Saunders, Helen Lax, Director of Fashion District, Vanessa Podmore, founder of Podmore Consulting, and Charles Armstrong, founder and CEO of Evo Learning and The Trampery.
Applications for the first program, scheduled to run from March to July 2024, will close on January 8th. The official announcement of the successful cohort is expected in February. Furthermore, the program plans to launch its second phase, focusing on fashion technology businesses, in the spring of 2024, running from July to December.
Janet Coyle, Managing Director of Grow London at London & Partners, emphasized the importance of this program, particularly as the fashion industry significantly contributes to global emissions. Evo Fashion aims to prioritize environmental sustainability by offering early-stage support and access to industry experts. London & Partners eagerly anticipates the announcement of the first cohort of businesses in early 2024.
Useful links:
– Evo Fashion Official Website
– The Trampery’s Evo Learning
