Supporting Designers of Color and Independent Entrepreneurs
Secure Your Scholarship to Elevate Your Brand Vision!
Application Deadline: Monday, December 8, 11:59 PM EST
As the fashion industry addresses challenges like sustainability and diversity, the THREADED by PLC x Foot Locker LEED initiative is paving the way for a brighter future. In collaboration with Pensole Lewis College (PLC Detroit), Foot Locker has expanded THREADED to ten cities—Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas, Detroit, DMV, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, and Philadelphia—for its second session. This positions the program as a national accelerator dedicated to identifying and supporting the next generation of apparel brands.
There is a notable shortage of Black women and men in the apparel and shoe design industry. While there are talented designers in these fields, systemic issues hinder their success. Limited access to education and resources is a significant barrier, as many aspiring designers from underrepresented backgrounds face challenges in accessing formal education and training opportunities. Additionally, lack of funding is a major obstacle, with Black designers often finding it more difficult to secure capital for starting brands or projects compared to their counterparts.
Networking opportunities in the fashion industry can also be limited, affecting mentorship and collaboration. Furthermore, mainstream fashion often overlooks Black designers, leading to fewer opportunities for recognition and growth.
The need for increased support and representation remains critical to creating a more equitable landscape in apparel and shoe design. THREADED by PLC x Foot Locker LEED not only addresses these challenges but also provides mentorship and resources, giving selected brands the opportunity to be sold online at Foot Locker. By supporting independent designers of color and fostering innovation, THREADED sets new standards for creative entrepreneurship.
Running from January 13 to February 14, 2025, the program equips participants with essential skills to thrive in the competitive apparel sector. Led by industry experts,
participants will explore brand development, design innovation, and market positioning. Tai Neal, Vice President of Strategy for LEED at Foot Locker Inc., expressed pride in partnering with Pensole Lewis College again, stating, “By providing aspiring designers with hands-on experience and education, we’re empowering the next generation of innovators and fostering creativity within the communities we serve.”
Dr. D’Wayne Edwards, founder and president of PLC, emphasizes the importance of building a network for entrepreneurs and making business and design education more accessible in communities that drive the industry. “THREADED unites independent creatives who are passionate about sharing their unique stories with the world,” he notes. This focus on narrative fosters authenticity and differentiation in a crowded market.
THREADED actively promotes diversity by creating opportunities for designers of color, challenging industry norms and enriching the fashion landscape with diverse perspectives. This variety enhances creativity and drives innovation, as unique backgrounds lead to distinctive solutions.
Participants will engage in eight virtual sessions culminating in a final presentation, which could allow them to sell their products online at FootLocker.com. This opportunity for visibility and growth marks a significant shift in support for emerging talent.
THREADED by PLC x Foot Locker LEED is more than an educational initiative; it represents the future of fashion by nurturing innovation and diversity, preparing a new generation of designers to make their mark.
Additionally, the initiative serves as a model for educational programs that drive economic growth. By supporting independent entrepreneurs, THREADED fosters a vibrant community of creatives that enriches local cultures, reflecting Foot Locker Inc.’s commitment to invest in, amplify, and empower the Black community, which has significantly influenced sneaker culture.
Application Deadline: Monday, December 8, 11:59 PM EST.
Eligibility Requirements: Applicants must be 18 years or older and have an apparel brand based in one of the following cities: Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas, Detroit, DMV, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, or Philadelphia.
Participant Benefits: Participants will receive a scholarship for THREADED 2025, business and career education from PLC and Foot Locker, access to mentorship and networking opportunities, and insights for increased brand equity and strategic growth.
To apply, visit www.plcdetroit.com/threadedv2.
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