WHO WE ARE

Fashion Trust U.S. is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to recognizing and supporting the next generation of U.S.-based emerging fashion designers. Launched in 2022 with its first Award Gala in 2023, the Fashion Trust U.S. initiative provides financial support and fashion industry mentorships to promising designers across the U.S.

Founded by Tania Fares, her vision began in 2011 with the launch of the British Fashion Council’s Fashion Trust in the U.K., which she led for a decade. Tania now serves as co-chair of the British Fashion Council (BFC) Foundation.

Each year, winners receive financial grant funding and a one-year intensive mentorship covering budgeting, brand strategy, marketing, social media optimization, merchandising, and overall business growth. As part of the program, each winner is also flown to London to take part in the British Fashion Council’s Fashion Trust initiative, an immersive mentorship experience designed to help scale fashion businesses. There, designers are connected with respected industry voices, who generously share their insights, experience, and strategies for long-term success. It’s a strong network and community that embodies the true spirit of Fashion Trust.

The initiative is guided by an esteemed leadership team, including Tania Fares, Carlos Nazario, Karla Welch, and Maha Dakhil, with our head of mentorship program led by Leonardo Lawson.

U.S.-based designers in the categories of Ready-to-Wear, Jewelry, Accessories, as well as recent fashion school Graduates, are invited to apply during the open application period from June through end of November. Eligible designers are required to be in business between two to seven years.

Four designer finalists in each of the categories are selected, with a total of 16 finalists annually. From these, awardees receive grant money that is distributed based on their submitted and shared business needs. Each year, approximately $500,000 in funding is distributed among the winners, who are announced each April at the prestigious annual Fashion Trust U.S. Awards Gala.

One finalist who demonstrates exemplary sustainable practices will be recognized and rewarded, encouraging environmentally responsible fashion.

Designers are invited to apply now online, no application fee required.