Tommy Hilfiger opens applications for latest Fashion Frontier Challenge

By

Sandra Halliday

Published
Jan 6, 2021

PVH’s Tommy Hilfiger opened applications for the third edition of the Tommy Hilfiger Fashion Frontier Challenge on Wednesday with entrepreneurs able to apply until March 8.

The global program “aims to support entrepreneurial start-up and scale-up stage businesses that develop solutions that make a positive social impact on the fashion landscape”.

It’s been running since 2018 and so far has awarded €350,000 to businesses that “stand up for what they believe in and are committed to driving change within their communities”.

The company said its third edition “strives 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". Consumers are also invited to get involved and help judge submissions.

Hilfiger said he wants to "showcase an even more diverse range of perspectives, ideas and communities by supporting BIPOC entrepreneurs. We have a responsibility to drive change across the fashion landscape, and I am honored to further our commitment to inclusivity and equal representation”.

So how does it work? Interested businesses need to submit project proposals “that focus on creating a more inclusive fashion value-chain”. The initial applications will then be narrowed down to six finalists “who will be invited to develop their project plans virtually with the support of dedicated Tommy Hilfiger and external subject-matter experts”.

That includes “training from an experienced pitch coach” to help finalists present their concept to the jury panel and associate audience at a global event to be held early next year.

The company is also getting consumers involved in the role of Consumer Judges to help narrow down finalists from 200 to 50, “with each being sent at least four applications to judge via the brand’s online microsite”. Applications to join the judging group close on February 8.

The company has increased the prize fund this time and said a total of €200,000 will be awarded between the winners with a chance at an additional €15,000 prize for winning the Audience Favorite Vote.

Also on offer is a year-long mentorship with Tommy Hilfiger’s internal experts, a place on the INSEAD Social Entrepreneurship Program (ISEP), and a year-long INSEAD mentorship.