Fashion Zone inducts first class of Joe Fresh Innovators

01 Oct '15

3 min read

The Joe Fresh Centre for Fashion Innovation, in partnership with the Fashion Zone at Ryerson University, announced the first class of Joe Fresh Innovators to join the Centre.

“The inaugural class, winners of a national competition, spans the spectrum of the fashion industry, representing some of Canada's most promising innovators and entrepreneurs,” a press release said.

Exclusive benefits for the Joe Fresh Innovators include; access to start-up funding up to $50,000 and mentorship and networking opportunities with Joe Fresh and Ryerson leadership teams.

Other benefits too include; academic recognition from Ryerson University following completion of the program; unique showcasing opportunities and one dedicated working desk in The Joe Fresh Centre.

The Joe Fresh Centre for Fashion Innovation, made possible with a $1 million investment from Joe Fresh, will develop and fund Canada's emerging fashion-inspired businesses through the Fashion Zone.

In the 18-month program, which begins in October, businesses will work with academic and business advisors to develop their business models, products and go-to-market strategies.

The Joe Fresh Centre, located in Toronto, is modeled after Ryerson University's highly successful DMZ, Canada's top-ranked university incubator, and Ryerson Futures, its affiliated business accelerator.

“The mission of the Joe Fresh Centre is to identify and develop Canadian startups in all fashion-related fields, including design, production, technology and professional services,” the press release added.

Fashion Zone at Ryerson University is one of Canada's first communities for fashion-inspired businesses and its members receive business know-how to advance their startups to the next level.

The participants have access to their own space, prototyping equipment, and a network of fashion and business experts.

Backed by the industry's best, The Fashion Zone is a key player in helping to strengthen and fuel the growth of successful fashion ventures

"This first group of Joe Fresh Innovators is remarkably diverse as it includes designers, tech start-ups, a skincare line and a fashion brand that aims to raise our collective social conscience,” Mario Grauso, president of Joe Fresh said.

“By combining that unique talent with the resources and support of the Joe Fresh Centre, we hope to support Canadian entrepreneurship and bring these ideas to a wider consumer audience," he added.

"We're thrilled to open the doors to the Joe Fresh Centre for Fashion Innovation," said Robert Ott, executive director of the Fashion Zone and the Joe Fresh Centre at Ryerson University.

"The selected candidates will be the first to tap into the tremendous resources provided by the partnership between Joe Fresh and Ryerson University," Ott stated. (AR)

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