GFA and PDS Ventures explained their Trailblazer Programme is tracking down "promising early-stage innovators who are working to accelerate the transformation of the fashion and textile industry with planet-positive solutions".
As part of the Trailblazer Programme, PDS Ventures will provide a substantial equity investment of up to $200,000 to one standout innovator, alongside comprehensive commercial and operational backing.
The recipient will also benefit from support from PDS Group’s Positive Materials, a textile company specialising in low-impact innovations, and will gain access to PDS Limited's expansive global supply chain network.
Commenting on the initiative, Federica Marchionni, CEO of GFA said: “It is more important than ever that the fashion ecosystem prioritises investment in early-stage solutions so that we can bring them to fruition and make them last. Through this programme and the support from PDS Ventures, GFA is striving to help innovation thrive.”
GFA and PDS are inviting solution providers to apply for the programme with the deadline set for 31 March to address various challenges in the fashion value chain.
Applicants will be reviewed and shortlisted by a jury panel, including representatives from GFA, PDS Ventures, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Ralph Lauren Corporation, Fashion For Good, and H&M Group.
Eight selected innovations will be designated as Trailblazers, receiving expert feedback and investment pitch training to refine their proposals.
Following this phase, each shortlisted innovator will pitch for potential investment, with the winning Trailblazer set to be unveiled at GFA’s Global Fashion Summit: Copenhagen Edition 2024, scheduled for 22-23 May at the Copenhagen Concert Hall.
Additionally, all shortlisted Trailblazers will have the opportunity to showcase their businesses during an exhibit at the Summit, facilitating engagement with industry stakeholders and potential investors.
The Trailblazer Programme aligns with the theme of the upcoming Global Fashion Summit, 'Unlocking The Next Level'.
Pallak Seth, founder and executive vice chairman of PDS Limited added: “There has never been a more urgent time than now for true industry support for climate-first innovators with, not only financial investment but most crucially, mentoring and support to unlock the scaling potential of early-stage innovators.
“At PDS Ventures we are committed to supporting young pioneering businesses and have had the privilege of working with some of the most exciting start-ups from their earliest days accelerating their mission to make a positive impact in the fashion industry.”
