The Next Thread Initiative Designer Award
Overview
The CFDA x Bezos Earth Fund Next Thread Initiative Designer Award will provide $3M over three years to independent American brands and designers working to advance sustainable fashion. In 2026, the Initiative will award a total of $1M in individual awards, with CFDA determining award size by the scope of the proposed work and readiness to execute. Award winners exhibiting exceptional design or innovation can qualify for additional funding to further develop their efforts.
The Next Thread Initiative is looking for designers who see sustainability not as a constraint, but as one of today’s most important creative challenges. Awards will range from $100,000 to $300,000. The strongest submissions will show genuine engagement with fashion’s climate and nature footprint.
Click the “Apply Now” button below to submit your eligibility application.
Eligibility
- Brand is founder-led, i.e. operated or creatively directed by the founding designer, with fewer than 30 full-time employees (including founder), not including vendors, contractors, or freelance consultants
- Brand has been actively in business for at least two years and currently generates $100,000 or more in annual gross revenue
- The business is legally registered and headquartered in the United States
- Participating designer(s)/founder(s) are legally authorized to work in the United States
- Brand specializes in fashion apparel, accessories, jewelry, or fashion textiles/materiality including knitwear, fiber, and surface design
- Designer(s)/founder(s) can travel to New York for key in-person engagements and events
Award Brief
To preview the application requirements, timeline, and process, download the Designer Award Brief.
Key
Key Program Details
For any and all questions, please reach out to our team at TheNextThread@CFDA.com.
How do I know if I'm eligible?
Review the eligibility checklist above. All requirements must be met at the time of submission. If you’re unsure about your eligibility, please reach out to our team before the eligibility application deadline.
Where do I apply?
What is the application process?
There are two-phases to the application process. First, all applicants must submit proof that they meet the eligibility requirements along with a Brand Book. Eligible applicants are then invited to submit a full application consisting of a written proposal and supporting slides. Download the Brief above to learn more about the required application materials.
When is the application deadline?
The application deadline is Monday, August 31, 2026.
What is the selection criteria?
Applications will be evaluated on:
- Ingenuity / Creative Capital: originality of the design-led approach and its power to inspire and influence
- Tangibility + Viability: a clear, credible, and executable proposal
- Feasibility to Scale: potential for the work to grow beyond the funded project and be adopted more broadly
- Impact Potential: significant environmental improvement over conventional practice
Do I need letters of recommendation?
Selected finalists will be required to provide two (2) letters of recommendation from industry professionals.