New York City Economic Development Corporation (NYCEDC) and the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) today launched Design Entrepreneurs NYC, a free, intensive, classroom-style “mini-MBA” program that will equip select New York City based fashion designers with the skills needed to successfully run a fashion label. Classes will be taught by FIT faculty and other industry professionals and will focus on fashion business marketing, operations, and financial management. The program will culminate with each participant writing and refining a business plan with the help of industry experts. Participants who successfully complete the program will have the opportunity to present their plans to and receive feedback from a panel of influential fashion leaders.
Up to 35 applicants will be accepted to the Design Entrepreneurs NYC program. To be eligible, the designer’s business must be based in New York City and have been open for at least one year. Applications are due no later than March 31, 2012. The application form is available online at designentrepreneursnyc.com.
The program will kick off with an orientation on June 1, 2012, followed by three intensive weekends of instruction – Saturdays and Sundays, from June 2 – June 17. Between June and September, participants will formalize their business plans with the assistance of instructors, ending the program with a live presentation of their business plans to a panel of industry leaders.
Additionally, Design Entrepreneurs NYC participants will have free access to a number of FIT programs, including workshops, personal tours of The Museum at FIT, and lectures by iconic fashion figures.
