RIYADH: The Fashion Commission and luxury group Kering have launched the selection process for the winners of the Kering Generation Award X Saudi Arabia.
The initiative aims to support innovative startups making a significant impact on the fashion industry, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
The application process began in November 2024, inviting startups to submit applications and promote sustainability. More than 100 startups applied, with 20 selected to participate in a three-day training camp in Riyadh.
The program featured workshops focused on key performance indicators, goal setting and pitching skills, SPA reported.
On Jan. 14, the shortlist of 20 startups gathered in Riyadh for the final presentation, where each applicant was evaluated on customer engagement, circular economy and water protection.
Following the presentations, the evaluation process began to select the top 10 proposals, which will be assessed by the jury based on innovation, relevance, fashion connection, and potential impact on nature and society.
The awards ceremony will take place on Jan. 27 in Riyadh, where the top three winning startups will be announced.
Winners will have the opportunity to travel to Paris for exclusive mentoring with Kering’s sustainability teams and present their innovations at the ChangeNOW 2025 summit.
Fashion Commission CEO Burak Cakmak said that sustainability was central to the commission’s vision for the future of the industry.
He added that the award aimed to showcase and support startups driving innovation in circular fashion and environmental stewardship.
Cakmak emphasized the commission’s commitment to advancing solutions that address current challenges and pave the way for a sustainable future in fashion.
