CFDA | Genesis House AAPI Design + Innovation Grant
Bespoke Mentorship
The program will provide three emerging AAPI fashion designers with invaluable education and mentorship from industry leaders across fashion, business, retail, and innovation.
The 2026–2027 mentor and advisor network will support participating designers throughout the program through a variety of engagements, including selection committee participation, workshops, resource connections, office hours, and more.
- Genesis House NYC
- Steven Kolb, CEO & President, CFDA
- Sara Kozlowski, SVP, Sustainability & Program Strategies, CFDA
- Wen Zhou, CEO & President, 3.1 Phillip Lim
- Jodie Chan, VP, Marketing & Communications Americas, Bottega Veneta
- Thakoon Panichgul, Designer & Founder
- Gena Smith, Chief Human Resources Officer, J.Crew
- Sara Chenoweth, Director of Buying and Brand Partnerships, Dover Street Market New York
- Instagram Fashion
- Dao-Yi Chow, Designer and Co-Founder, Public School New York
Design Challenge & Grant Funding
The Design Challenge is the creative core of the program — pushing each designer to expand their creative boundaries through innovation, craftsmanship, and cultural storytelling.
This year, the program introduces a new milestone-based funding model that emphasizes the collective growth and shared journey of the cohort. Each designer will receive up to $60,000 over the course of the program ($40,000 to support the Design Challenge and $20,000 toward broader business growth).
Spring Cultural Showcase
A new showcase moment — the program will culminate with the Spring Cultural Showcase during AAPI Heritage Month in May 2027.
Seoul Immersion Trip
The program includes a one-week all-expenses-paid immersive cultural trip to Seoul — one of the world’s most dynamic creative capitals — designed to ignite the Design Challenge, a sustained creative push against each designer’s own limits to explore the boundaries of innovation and cultural storytelling.
Spotlight & Industry Recognition
As finalists in the program, designers may gain visibility within CFDA’s network, potentially opening doors to future opportunities and connections. Additionally, their brands may receive exposure through Genesis House and CFDA’s social media platforms and other promotional initiatives, amplifying their work, achievements, and fostering connections within the fashion community.