CFDA x Bezos Earth Fund The Next Thread Initiative
About
About
The CFDA x Bezos Earth Fund Next Thread Initiative is a $6.25 million partnership between the Council of Fashion Designers of America Foundation and the Bezos Earth Fund to advance innovation and education in sustainable fashion. The Initiative will support independent designers and emerging talent who redefine fashion.
Over three years, the partnership will support a range of efforts designed to empower sustainable innovation across the U.S. fashion ecosystem:
Independent Designer Awards — $3 million total in grants will recognize American designers leading the way in sustainable materials, circular design, and low-impact production.
Scholarships for Aspiring Designers — $1.5 million total in Scholarships will be awarded to undergraduate and graduate students pursuing sustainable fashion design, helping remove financial barriers and strengthen the industry’s talent pipeline.
Events and Storytelling — CFDA will showcase grantees and program learnings through curated events, exhibitions, and digital storytelling, evolving from industry-focused engagement to public showcases of sustainable design excellence.
Photos: 2026 Next Thread Scholarship Award Finalists
The Next Thread Initiative Scholarship Award
The Next Thread Initiative Independent Designer Award
About
About the Bezos Earth Fund
The Bezos Earth Fund is helping transform the fight against climate change with the largest ever philanthropic commitment to climate and nature protection. Jeff Bezos has committed $10 billion to protect nature and address climate change. By providing funding and expertise, we partner with organizations to accelerate innovation, break down barriers to success, and create a more equitable and sustainable world. Join us in our mission to create a world where people prosper in harmony with nature.
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