AFDB 2023 Fashionomics Africa Contest for African Entrepreneurs ( USD $10,000 prize)

Eligibility Criteria

• The contest is open to fashion entrepreneurs of 18 years of age and above, operating in the textile, apparel, and accessories industry in Africa. 
• Entrants must pursue environmentally friendly, sustainable and circular economy measures to qualify.
• Priority will be given to youth (18-35 years old) and women-led fashion businesses.
• Applicants should have an African passport and / or live in an African country and have an identification document like a passport, national ID Card or Voters Card issued in an African country.
• Participants must have launched a fashion business* and operate in the textile (fabric making), apparel (clothing) or accessories (jewelry, bags, etc.) sector. Recently launched businesses are encouraged to apply. Proof of business registration will be requested.

Offered Benefits

The winner will have the opportunity to win:

• A financial reward of USD 10,000**** for the best sustainable and innovative brand;
• A Fashionomics Africa certificate;
• Access to a network of media insiders and industry experts;
• The possibility to take part in online events and share insights on key sustainability challenges facing the industry;
• The publication of the winner’s story on the African Development Bank’s website and Fashionomics Africa platform;
• The possibility to attend a Fashionomics Africa webinar as a panelist;

The finalists (2) will have the opportunity to receive:

• A promotion package to advertise the brand on Fashionomics Africa social media for a month;
• A Fashionomics Africa certificate;
• A branding kit (new logo, color palette, recommended fonts, letterhead, business card, email signature).

The winner and finalists will also benefit from networking, mentoring and capacity building opportunities offered by the competition partners:

United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)

The winner and two finalists will havee the chance to:

• Present the brand’s sustainability journey at an online event organized by UNEP, with the participation of African and international companies, technical organizations, fashion institutes;
• Gain exclusive access to UNEP’s up-to-date expert network and receive exposure by being promoted through the organization’s newsletter database;
• Benefit from bi-lateral training sessions with UNEP fashion and textile experts and receive support on eco-innovation methodology;
• Gain exclusive access to UNEP’s up-to-date eco-innovation resources and materials on subjects related to fashion and textile sustainability.

BPCM

• Provide the winner with three online one to one mentoring sessions (three hours) to strengthen the business’ communication strategy.
• Provide each finalist with a one-to-one mentoring session to strengthen the businesses’ communication strategy.

Application Process