The Visa Young Creators programme is now accepting applications from individuals based in Europe who have owned a business for at least one year.
Eligible fields include upcycling, textiles, accessories, footwear, or apparel, with applicants required to operate mainly within Europe and focus their businesses on activities such as resell, repair, rental, refill, return, or redistribution.
A total of 15 winners will be chosen by a jury composed of industry professionals, including Laura Ingham of Vogue, Kirsty Keoghan from eBay, Shailja Dubé of the British Fashion Council, and Philip Konopik of Visa Europe.
Gemma Styles, serving as ambassador for Recycle the Runway, will also participate as a jury member.
Financial awards are structured with ten winners sharing €50,000 to invest in their businesses.
Four additional winners will each receive €10,000 along with invitations to the Global Fashion Summit: Copenhagen Edition 2026, individual guidance from solution providers to co-create products, mentorship sessions, promotional opportunities, and industry visibility.
One Grand Prize Winner will receive €20,000 and all aforementioned benefits.
Global Fashion Agenda CEO Federica Marchionni said: "Through Recycle the Runway, we are proud to support the next generation of creators who are reimagining how fashion is designed, produced, and experienced. This initiative helps turn circular ideas into viable businesses that can shape a more regenerative future for fashion. By connecting creative talent with funding, mentorship, and industry platforms, GFA keeps accelerating the transition towards a more circular fashion system."
Applicants must be able to attend the Global Fashion Summit in Copenhagen on 6–7 May 2026 if shortlisted.
The Visa Young Creators: Recycle the Runway programme aims to highlight new talent while promoting business models built around circularity.
Finalists will gain access to financial backing and industry mentorship as part of efforts by GFA and Visa to encourage continued progress towards a circular fashion system.
Visa Europe Nordics and Baltics Group country manager Philip Konopik commented: "Through Visa Young Creators: Recycle the Runway with Global Fashion Agenda, we're proud to empower the next generation of creators and spotlight how those purpose-led small businesses can speed the shift to a more regenerative fashion economy."
