Description
The Philadelphia Fashion Incubator is a nonprofit fashion business incubator based in Philadelphia, PA dedicated to transforming emerging fashion designers into sustainable companies. Through its year-long residency program (Designers-in-Residence), participants receive curriculum-based workshops, mentoring, business strategy sessions, industry visits (e.g., trade shows and fashion events), retail critique, and networking to build viable fashion brands and grow their businesses within the region’s fashion ecosystem.
Eligibility
• Designers residing or operating in the Philadelphia Region (specific counties in PA and NJ).
• 21 years or older with an active fashion business (6 months to 5 years of operation).
• Existing sales in marketplace demonstrating initial traction.
• Able to commit to the 12-month residency and devote time to programming and resource utilization.
Process
Application & Selection: Designers apply for the annual residency; applicants typically must have a fashion business active for 6 months to 5 years, with existing sales and region eligibility.
Commitment & Participation: Selected designers pay a program fee (e.g., $400/month in some cycles) and commit to regular workshops, mentorship, and use of workspace over 12 months.
Workshops & Curriculum: Participants attend business bootcamp, monthly workshops, retail strategy sessions, and industry lectures covering merchandising, sales, finance, marketing, and production.
Industry Exposure & Events: Designers participate in pop-ups, industry visits, trunk shows, and fashion events, gaining visibility and real-world selling experience.
Alumni & Ongoing Support: PFI’s alumni community remains connected through continued networking and exposure opportunities beyond the residency.
What an Applicant can Obtain
✔ Structured business mentorship and workshops covering key entrepreneurial topics.
✔ Workspace and showroom access in PFI’s facility for design and business operations.
✔ Monthly industry visits and networking opportunities with fashion professionals.
✔ Exposure through pop-ups, fashion shows, and retail showcases to build brand awareness.
✔ Access to a supportive community and alumni network of designers and mentors.
✔ Business strategy and growth support to help scale fashion brands sustainably.
