BFC signs TikTok, Clearpay to support the return of NewGen talent scheme

By

Nigel TAYLOR

Published
Feb 8, 2021

The British Fashion Council (BFC) has signed TikTok as Principal Partner of its returning talent identification scheme NewGen. At the same time, BNPL payment firm Clearpay will also become the event’s Official Partner.

The event was shelved last year due to the Covid pandemic. Now the BFC and TikTok, the short-form mobile video giant, will work together to create a new “bespoke programme of activity” for all NewGen recipients. This will include streaming support of designer shows, mentoring, masterclasses and digital support for the recipients. 

TikTok will also host a NewGen venue during London Fashion Week in September with designer shows, content creation and hospitality opportunities. This partnership “will also enable even more innovative fashion content to be shared across the entire TikTok ecosystem”, BFC said. 

Caroline Rush, chief executive of the BFC said: “The past year was extremely challenging, and much of our support went towards businesses that needed the funds to overcome the pandemic. As we look towards the future, we are delighted to bring back NewGen for 2021/22 with the support of a new Principal Partner. 

She added: “The BFC always understood the changing nature of fashion and led the way in technology and innovation. This is why we are extremely proud to be the first international Fashion Council to partner with TikTok to support emerging talent and we look forward to working with the team to showcase the best of what British fashion has to offer”. 

Applications for NewGen 2021/22 are now open.