Applications for the BFC/Vogue Designer Fashion Fund 2016 open today with changes to the application process. Established in 2008, The Fund aims to discover new talent and accelerate the rise of the next big star of British fashion design. The winner will receive a bespoke, high level mentoring support programme over a twelve month period, as well as a £200,000 grant to provide necessary infrastructure to propel them to the next stage in their business.
The application process for 2016 has been revised and now includes a two-step process. All designers are invited to apply by completing the online form no later than 7th August 2015. These will be reviewed by a judging committee chaired by British Vogue Editor Alexandra Shulman alongside industry experts and funding representatives who will select a shortlist. These shortlisted designers will be invited to submit their five year business plan focusing on areas for growth and how the prize money will help develop their business into a global brand. Shortlisted applicants will be invited for an interview, with the winner announced in March 2016. Designers eligible for the scheme must be based in the UK, with both domestic and international stockists and support from key media in the UK and internationally. The winner must demonstrate a clear vision for their business and how the Fund will contribute to their growth, with a focus on creating a global brand.
Alexandra Shulman commented "
British fashion is in a better state than ever before and we're pleased that this award has been a part of its success. This year we are all hoping to see a record number of applicants. We want to encourage the widest range of designers possible to apply and gain the advantages of being chosen for our prestigious shortlist."
The
Designer Fashion Fund series which was established in 2015 will return later this year to document the application process, including interviews with the judging panel, previous winners and the shortlisted designers. The first episode of the second series will be aired exclusively on the BFC website and Vogue.co.uk in December 2015.
Previous BFC/Vogue Designer Fashion Fund winners include Erdem, Christopher Kane, Jonathan Saunders, Nicholas Kirkwood, Peter Pilotto and Mary Katrantzou.
The BFC/Vogue Designer Fashion Fund is supported by Burberry, Debenhams, Harrods, Paul Smith, Topshop and Vogue.
For more information and to apply online please visit www.britishfashioncouncil.com/designerfashionfund
For press enquiries please contact:
Sophie McElligott, British Fashion Council, +44 (0) 20 7759 1986
sophie.mcelligott@britishfashioncouncil.com