British clothing retailer Asos has partnered with (Fashion) Minority Report (FMR) to launch a program supporting ethnic minority brands in the fashion industry.
The ScaleUp initiative was created to remove the barriers these companies face in entering the fashion market and expanding their business.
Two selected candidates will receive support and advice from industry experts as part of the programme, as well as the opportunity to launch a collection available on Asos and be mentored by experienced business people for a year. Companies also have the opportunity to apply for grants of up to £20,000 each to further support their growth.
Five other up-and-coming brands will also be included in the program and will be given the opportunity to present their brand at the ScaleUp press and buyers showroom in February 2024 and to take part in workshops and lectures.
The application deadline is July 9th. Applications will then be reviewed by a panel of judges including FMR founder Daniel Peters, Asos creative director Vanessa Spence and editor of online magazine Hypebae Navi Ahluwalia.
“As all brand creators know, the road to success in the fashion industry can often feel difficult, but as someone from a minority ethnic background, the hurdles to overcome are often greater,” says Peters. “We can’t wait to partner with Asos to deliver a program that provides ethnic minority entrepreneurs with opportunities and the building blocks to scale them.”
This translated post previously appeared on FashionUnited.uk.