Barbour launches new scholarship with BFC to support next generation of designers

The British Fashion Council (BFC) has launched a new education collaboration with British premium lifestyle brand Barbour for 2026, introducing a fashion design scholarship under the BFC Foundation.

The initiative aligns with the BFC’s recently launched strategy, BFC 2030: Access, Creativity, Growth, led by Chief Executive Laura Weir.

As part of this strategy, the organisation aims to triple the number of named branded scholarships across fashion, creative excellence and education, reaching a total value of £500,000 over the next three years.

The new partnership contributes toward that target and reflects the BFC’s broader commitment to supporting designers at every stage of their careers through education, funding and industry access.

Laura Weir, Chief Executive, British Fashion Council: "As set out in the BFC’s recently announced strategy, we are committed to increasing the number of named, brand-partnered scholarships across fashion, creative excellence and education and this scholarship is a direct delivery against that ambition.

"Scholarships like this are about more than funding. They open access and opportunity, ensuring creativity is not confined to geography or privilege but reaches talent wherever it exists across the UK. Barbour’s reputation for heritage and innovation makes them a brilliant collaborator on this mission."

The scholarship will provide financial support and mentoring to a BA or MA student studying at a BFC Colleges Council member university. Inspired by Barbour’s focus on innovation and craftsmanship, it is designed to support early career development and help recipients transition from education into the fashion industry.

It will join existing BFC Foundation scholarships backed by major fashion houses and designers, including Chanel, Dior and Joe Casely-Hayford.

Chair Dame Margaret Barbour added: "We are delighted to be partnering with the British Fashion Council on this exciting initiative. The launch of the BFC x Barbour Scholarship is an important step in supporting and mentoring the next generation of designers.

"For over 130 years, Barbour has been committed to British craftsmanship, innovation and quality; through this partnership, we look forward to sharing our heritage, expertise and values to guide and inspire young designers on their creative journey."

Earlier in the year, Barbour also launched a student competition through the BFC Colleges Council, reinforcing its support for arts education.

The competition is centred on the brand’s campaign, “The Original & Authentic Barbour Tartans”, and invites students to reinterpret tartan through a modern lens while preserving its heritage.

Three winners will be selected this spring, each receiving £5,000 and the opportunity to participate in an activation with Barbour during London Fashion Week September 2026.