Social entrepreneurs with a plan to create a more inclusive fashion industry have the opportunity to grow their platform.
Tommy Hilfiger announced the launch of its third edition of the Tommy Hilfiger Fashion Frontier Challenge, a program that aims to “amplify and support black, indigenous and people of color (BIPOC) entrepreneurs who are working to advance their communities and foster a more inclusive future of fashion.” The global program builds on the brand’s recently established sustainability vision that includes 24 targets across four pillars centered around circularity and inclusivity.
The PVH Corp.-owned company began accepting applications on Wednesday and will continue to do so until March 8.
The Tommy Hilfiger Fashion Frontier Challenge strives to support entrepreneurial startup and scale-up stage businesses that develop solutions that make a positive social impact on the fashion landscape. It has awarded approximately $430,000 since its inception in 2018 to organizations like doctHERs, which digitally connects Pakistan’s female doctors with factory workers, and Apon Wellbeing, a Bangladesh scale-up that improves the life of factory workers through affordable health insurance.
Prizes have been increased from previous years. A total of $245,000 will be awarded between winners and a chance at an additional $18,500 prize for winning the “Audience Favorite Vote.” Winners will also be awarded with a year-long mentorship with internal Tommy Hilfiger experts, a place on the INSEAD Social Entrepreneurship Program and a year-long INSEAD mentorship.
“We have a responsibility to drive change across the fashion landscape, and I am honored to further our commitment to inclusivity and equal representation through the upcoming Tommy Hilfiger Fashion Frontier Challenge,” said Tommy Hilfiger.
Interested businesses are invited to submit project proposals that focus on creating a more inclusive fashion value chain. Applicants will be narrowed down to six finalists who will be invited to develop their project plans virtually with the support of dedicated Tommy Hilfiger and experts. With training from a pitch coach, finalists will present their final concept to a jury panel and associate audience at the global Tommy Hilfiger Fashion Frontier Challenge final event to be held in early 2022.
This year consumers are also invited to apply to be “consumer judges” and help decide this year’s finalists. Consumer judges will be tasked with narrowing down finalists from 200 to 50, with each being sent at least four applications to judge via the brand’s online microsite. Applications to become a consumer judge will close on Feb. 8.