The Fall 2026 runway season in Paris has ended, but fashion never pauses. Following the extraordinary wave of change last season, the fall shows presented the outcomes, alongside debut collections from Meryll Rogge at Marni, and the first official runway shows from Rachel Scott at Proenza Schouler in New York and Demna at Gucci in Milan. As editors now head home, our attention turns back to the future of fashion in New York. Are you—like Scott, the 2024 CFDA Emerging Designer of the Year—helping shape that new vision?
Starting today at 9 AM EST, applications for the 2026 CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund will be available on CFDA.com. The application window closes at 11:59 PM EST on Friday, April 10. Late applications will not be considered.
All applicants must be primarily based in the United States and have been in business for at least two years. Eligible businesses cannot have more than 30 employees or exceed $10 million in annual revenue.
This year’s selection committee includes CFDA CEO Steven Kolb and CFDA Chairman Thom Browne, along with Vogue’s Head of Editorial Content Chloe Malle and Vogue Runway Global Fashion News and Features Director Nicole Phelps. They are joined by Aurora James, founder of Brother Vellies and the Fifteen Percent Pledge; Eva Chen of Instagram; Rickie De Sole of Nordstrom; and model Paloma Elsesser. The committee will announce the 10 CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund finalists in June.
Frequently Asked Questions
Of course Here is a list of FAQs about the CFDAVogue Fashion Fund written in a natural conversational tone with clear direct answers
General Eligibility
Q What exactly is the CFDAVogue Fashion Fund
A Its a prestigious annual competition and mentorship program for emerging American fashion designers The top prize is a large cash grant and a year of expert mentorship to help grow their business
Q Who is eligible to apply
A The fund is open to American designers who have been in business for a minimum period and can show a viable existing readytowear business Specific annual requirements are posted when applications open
Q Is it only for womenswear designers
A No While historically focused on womenswear the fund has expanded Designers of menswear genderneutral collections and accessory designers have been finalists and winners in recent years Check the specific years guidelines
Q When are applications for the 2026 fund due
A The exact deadline for 2026 has not been announced yet Applications for a given year typically open in the spring You should check the CFDA website regularly starting in early 2026 for the official announcement
Q Is there an application fee
A No applying for the Fashion Fund is free
Application Process Requirements
Q What do I need to submit with my application
A You will typically need a comprehensive business plan financial statements a lookbook of your current collection a bio and statements about your brands vision and why you need the fund The exact required documents are listed in the application packet
Q How detailed does my business plan need to be
A Very detailed The judges are looking for a clear understanding of your market production sales strategy and financial projections They want to invest in a business not just a creative talent If youre unsure seek help from a business advisor
Q My brand is very small Do I have a chance