About

Program Overview: 

Created in partnership with New York State, the CFDA x NY Forward Grant Fund supports Garment District-based fashion manufacturers and brands with in-house production facilities. The program is designed to drive innovation, strengthen local production, and ensure the Garment District remains a vital hub for the fashion industry.

The grant fund offers partially matching grants covering up to two-thirds (⅔) of the cost for eligible businesses to invest in new machinery, associated software, initial training to enhance production capabilities, and related capital improvements.

Eligibility Requirements:

 Applicants must lease or own production space within the Garment District Strategic Investment Area (with at least three years remaining on the lease at the time of award), be a registered business generating revenue for at least two years, and have under $10M in annual net revenue. Eligible businesses include contract manufacturers of fashion products, manufacturers of innovative fabrics or materials, or brands with small-batch in-house production. Certified minority- and women-owned businesses that meet these criteria are encouraged to apply.

Launch
The fund is scheduled to launch in 2026, with additional details to be shared closer to that time. To receive updates, please complete this interest form. You may also include any questions, and the team will respond within a few business days.