CFDA and Bezos Earth Fund launch $6.25 million initiative to promote sustainable fashion

The CFDA and the Bezos Earth Fund have announced a $6.25 million partnership to launch a new initiative to promote innovation and education in a sustainable way.

Dubbed “The Next Thread Initiative”, its goal is to support independent designers and emerging talent who are redefining the way clothing is made, produced and consumed. The three-year collaboration will fund designer awards, student scholarships and storytelling programs designed to highlight the creative and commercial potential of sustainability in fashion.

“This partnership provides designers and students with tangible support to build a more sustainable future for fashion,” said Steven Kolb, president and CEO of the CFDA.

“Under the leadership of Lauren Sánchez Bezos, the Bezos Earth Fund is turning ideas into action and driving innovation forward. We are proud to work together to drive change across our industry. The CFDA appreciates this support and looks forward to collaborating with Lauren and the Bezos Earth Fund team. This initiative aligns with a core pillar of the CFDA and builds on more than a decade of our progress in advancing sustainability into American fashion.”

Through the initiative, independent designers leading the way in sustainable materials, circular design and low-impact production will be eligible for grants ranging from $50,000 to $500,000. Meanwhile, scholarships of between $25,000 and $75,000 will be awarded to undergraduate and graduate students pursuing sustainable fashion design. CFDA will also highlight program participants through select events, exhibitions and digital storytelling to engage both the industry and the public.

Insights from the initiative are expected to help inform future Earth Fund investments in materials science, manufacturing innovation and supply chain transformation.

“Fashion has always been a mirror of culture and now it can be a catalyst for change,” added Tom Taylor, president and CEO of the Bezos Earth Fund. “Together with the CFDA Foundation, we are investing in the next generation of designers and innovators who will build a more sustainable future for fashion.”