eBay UK and BFC reveal 'Circular Fashion Innovators Fund' finalists

eBay UK and the British Fashion Council (BFC) have announced the 2024 Circular Fashion Innovator’s Fund finalists, who have the "potential to transform the fashion industry".

All six finalists are early-stage businesses that incorporate sustainable practices from rental models to curated children’s pre-loved clothes boxes.

The Fund was first established in October 2022 and has been introduced for a second time, demonstrating eBay and the  BFC's dedication to creating a sustainable future for fashion.

The Fund, which aims to propel circular fashion, offers £15,000 for each selected small business with an additional £10,000 for the overall winner.

Alongside the financial support, finalists embark on a six-week mentoring program, gain access to industry networking opportunities and receive invaluable support from environmental charity Hubbub, an ongoing advisor for the Fund.

The six finalists are as follows:

•  Swoperz is a subscription-based preloved kids' clothing community with a difference: it is run by kids and managed by grownups.
• Give Your Best is a circular platform where people and brands donate clothes online, so vulnerable people in the UK such as refugees or trafficking victims can shop clothes online for free with the agency and dignity they deserve.
• Supercycle enables rental business models on Shopify. Their beta product Supercycle allows merchants to offer rental membership, manage inventory and returns, and sell via Shopify.
• Finds World is a social marketplace that lets people use videos to buy and sell the best secondhand, vintage and handmade fashion.
• Thrifthood is a female-founded online retailer of second-hand childrenswear. Any items not resold are donated to families in need.
• Loanhood is a circular commerce platform including a fashion rental marketplace app and a B2B solution for SMEs.

Jemma Tadd, Head of Fashion, eBay UK, said: "We are dedicated to empowering the UK's most innovative thinkers who are pioneering solutions for fashion waste and driving a circular fashion economy. I am immensely proud of this initiative and can’t wait to see this year’s Circular Fashion Innovator’s Fund winners grow with our support. Together, we are truly reimagining the future of fashion."

Caroline Rush, CEO of the British Fashion Council, added: "We are delighted to work with eBay again on the Circular Fashion Innovator’s Fund. As an organisation, we have an important role to play in supporting and empowering businesses in preparing for positive change by embracing innovation. I look forward to following the remarkable advances which are being made in this year’s finalists."