eBay UK launches Circular Fashion Innovator’s Fund for second year with British Fashion Council

Following the launch of the Circular Fashion Fund in 2022, eBay UK has announced its £100,000 initiative will return for a second year, in partnership with The British Fashion Council.

Offering up to six £25,000 grants to small businesses, this exists to invest in and bring new technology and services to the circular economy, with a particular focus on innovation around customer experience, circular inventory and services and social commerce.

Environmental charity, Hubbub will also support in an advisory role, drawing on its experience in delivering high profile grant funds.

Applications are open from now until Friday 20th October 2023, and innovative tech startups and small businesses can apply via a form on eBay’s website here.

The judging criteria is focused on four key assessment areas; innovation, circularity, scalability and sustainability. A shortlist of ten businesses will be invited to pitch to a panel of fashion and sustainability industry experts and organisations.

Alongside the financial support, finalists will receive a six-week mentoring programme, industry networking opportunities and a platform to showcase their innovative circular fashion solutions to a wider audience.

eBay’s Global GM of Fashion, Kirsty Keoghan, says: “The UK fashion industry is at the forefront of innovation driving to make circularity the future of fashion.”

“At eBay, we’ve seen first hand that startups and small businesses are a significant driving force behind this ambition for change. Following the hugely successful first year of the fund, we’re committed to identifying and scaling more UK businesses to help make the change we all want to see.”

Caroline Rush, CEO at the British Fashion Council, says: “We are excited to announce our renewed partnership with eBay after a successful first year. We aim to support and assist businesses in preparing for positive change by embracing innovation, which is fundamental to our mission.”

“We firmly believe that everyone has a role to play in building a brighter future for the fashion industry and aiding the growth of companies that are accelerating the circular economy in fashion is key to this. We look forward to continuing to champion the remarkable advances which are being made in the industry.”

2022 finalist Oli Pepper at Circular Inc, which provides circular design and sustainable manufacturing to accompany radio frequency identification (RFID) assisted commercial repair and upcycling of clothing, says: “The eBay Circular Fashion Fund was an excellent opportunity. From a simple application to becoming one of finalists, the process was clearly handled and the rewards great.”

“Not only from the financial point of view but importantly from the superb mentorship and the valuable connections with other businesses in the circular economy. The programme has made people, brands and organisations sit up and take notice of what we have achieved.’’