With the ever-growing need to nurture and build creative talent across the globe, Paul Smith’s Foundation and the CFDA have joined forces to award one American designer the opportunity to join the Fashion Residency at Studio Smithfield in London for its second-year cohort alongside six UK-based designers.

The recipient of the inaugural Paul Smith’s Foundation x CFDA Designer-in-Residence will receive a complimentary 400-square-foot studio space for 12 months supported by Projekt, mentoring from industry leaders and business-planning training, visa, flights as well as a significant contribution to their living.

From August 14, CFDA will be inviting designers to apply, and in September, shortlisted candidates will be interviewed by a panel including Sir Paul Smith, Steven Kolb, Chief Executive Officer and President at CFDA, and Sara Kozlowski, Vice President of Program Strategies / Education & Sustainability Initiatives at CFDA, in New York City, where the recipient will be determined.

The UK and U.S. have shared a strong and enduring partnership, and at a time when funding for the arts and access to education is at an all-time low, both the CFDA and Sir Paul’s unconventional approach, tried and tested methods and enduring success can help guide talent towards growing their own sustainable businesses and fulfilling careers.

“Partnering with the CFDA to have this opportunity to have an American based designer join the Fashion Residency is delightful and hopefully it will be a life changing experience for them,” said Sir Paul Smith. “We formalized the Paul Smith’s Foundation a few years ago but I have been told quite flatteringly we’ve been running one for years without realizing it! I have had designers come to me for years, like John Galliano and Alexander McQueen . . . who have come for very practical advice, and that’s what I am very proud of what our foundation does.”

“Fashion is a truly global business, and an opportunity such as this will provide one American talent with invaluable experience and exposure in an international market,” said Steven Kolb, CFDA CEO and President. “The chance to work alongside peers in the UK fosters creative exchange, builds cross-cultural understanding, and strengthens our industry as a whole. We are deeply grateful to Sir Paul Smith for his continued collaboration and dedication to nurturing the next generation of talent.

For more information and eligibility requirements, please email Programs@CFDA.com.