On September 15, 2024, Governor Kathy Hochul announced a new grant program through the New York State Fashion Innovation Center, aimed at enhancing the state’s farm-to-fashion ecosystem. The initiative will provide grants of up to $10,000 to startups, small businesses, farmers, and researchers focused on innovations in agricultural production, sustainable materials, and textile technology.
The program encourages participants to develop projects that advance sustainable practices within the fashion industry. Alongside financial support, grant recipients will join a cohort that offers mentoring and access to specialized equipment and facilities to further their initiatives.
“Nothing is more synonymous with New York than fashion, and this industry generates over $25 billion a year in wages for hardworking New Yorkers,” said Hochul, emphasizing the importance of fostering innovation in sustainability.
The Fashion Innovation Center, established in 2022 with $10 million in state funding, promotes collaboration among universities, businesses, and agricultural leaders to utilize locally produced textiles. The initiative is part of a broader effort to position New York as a leader in sustainable fabric production.
State officials, including Agriculture Commissioner Richard Ball, highlighted the opportunity for the state’s robust agricultural sector to contribute to the fashion industry, bolstering both economic growth and environmental sustainability. The deadline for grant applications is November 15, 2024, marking a significant step towards a greener future for New York’s fashion landscape.
Learn more about the announcement: https://www.governor.ny.gov/news/close-out-fashion-week-governor-hochul-announces-first-round-grants-new-york-state-fashion
