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Leading the next generation of emerging designers to the next level, the Arab Fashion Council (AFC) has launched a new initiative to transform regional talent into a global force.
The Arab Fashion Council, a non-profit organisation based in the UAE, has always supported the budding designers of the Middle East, and it seems that this time around, it has yet again opened a new avenue of support for designers to prosper.
In the latest project, it has introduced the AFC Fashion Fund, a four-season brand-building accelerator worth $500,000 (Dhs1.8 million), where designers will get to experience a thorough reflection and examination of scaling up their brands into globally acclaimed Maisons.
Furthering the mold to help cement designers in the fashion world, the AFC will hand select one designer for a duration of two years to be guided, mentored, and supported in accessing new markets, as well as supported via world-class production, retail, and media.
Mohammed Aqra, the AFC’s chief strategy Officer, said, “This is not a prize. It’s an evolution.”
“The AFC Fashion Fund is about turning a promising designer into a sustainable, export-ready brand that carries the spirit of our region onto the global stage,” he added.
The winner of the transformative accelerator comes with a meticulous framework. Below, GRAZIA breaks down the AFC Fashion Fund.
Ushered into the Global runway
The council will provide the winner, who will take home the AFC Fashion Fund, with three runway seasons. With the fund, the designer will be ensured with all aspects of the runway, from casting to styling to public relations and social media. Aiming to build a brand into an internationally recognised Maison, the fund will help provide the designer showroom presentations in the fashion capital, Paris, during the pre-seasons.
Exclusive Mentorship and Branding strategy
With the fund, the designated winner will earn invaluable connections to an elite advisory board, from KOL’s in fashion, investors and buyers. The fund promises continuous support and coaching in the realms of business, thus growing sustainably, creatively and strategically.
Regional expansion
To further accelerate, the fund will also aim to help brands expand across the GCC, particularly with capsule collections in line with cultural events such as Ramadan and Eid. Here, designers will also be ensured integration into prominent retailers in the region, which encompasses tailored strategies.
A Collaboration like No other
Additionally, the winner will be given an exclusive one-season collaboration with a globally recognised brand. This is set to help build the designer’s credibility on the global stage which will be co-strategised by the AFC.
How to apply for the AFC Fashion Fund?
For designers interested in the AFC Fashion Fund, applications will be open in June 2025. The official winner will be announced in October 2025, which will then mark the start of the two-year stint to transform the brand.
For more information, visit www.arabfashioncouncil.com
