The Fashion Manufacturing Initiative (FMI), created in 2013 between the CFDA and Andrew Rosen, in partnership with the New York City Economic Development Corporation, celebrated its 10th anniversary last year, marking a decade of continuous support of local New York City fashion manufacturers.

The FMI Grant Fund, the tentpole program under FMI, is entering its ninth round of funding to nurture, elevate and preserve local fashion manufacturers through financial grants for a myriad of business support areas. 

Since the first round’s closing in 2014, the FMI Grant Fund has invested over $5 million across New York City to support businesses advancing diverse voices, as well as innovative and sustainable business trajectories. Last year alone, over $1 million was invested to 18 recipients.

The grant requests can include support for: upgrading machinery and/or equipment; acquiring new and innovative software and/or non-machinery technology; implementation of workforce training or upskilling; hiring consultants to strategize and implement business goals and evaluate current structures; investments to advance sustainable strategies and processes; capital improvements to support expansion; and relocation between NYC’s five boroughs. 

All prospective applicants should review all of the relevant program information, qualifications, and timelines associated with the FMI Grant Fund, included in the 2024 FMI Grant Fund Program Brief, accessible here. 

Applications launch today (Jan. 25) and will be accepted until March 1, 2024 at 5:00PM Eastern Standard Time (EST). Late submissions will not be accepted. Access the 2024 FMI Grant Fund application here.

Questions regarding the application and for scheduling 1:1 time to speak with the program team, can be routed to supplychain@cfda.com.