British Council scheme open to support sustainable R&D in apparel sector

The British Council in collaboration with the University of the Arts London Fashion, Textiles and Technology Institute (UAL FTTI) has invited proposals for its second Fashion, Textiles and Technology (FTT) New Landscapes Catalyst R&D Grant Scheme with the goal of supporting research and development in sustainable fashion and textiles between the UK and other eligible nations for international ODA.

In order to assist the fashion, textile, and related technology (FTT) industries in rethinking and reevaluating their effects on both people and the environment, a pilot program was introduced in October 2021. The success of the initial pilot program serves as the foundation for the new initiative.

The New Landscapes: Fashion, Textiles and Technology Catalyst R&D Grant Scheme will award five collaborative grants totaling GBP120,000 (US$144,350), up to a maximum of GBP6,000 in cash and GBP15,000 in in-kind support for proposals.

Develop international networks to facilitate the use, testing, and experimentation of sustainable design and industrial approaches that spur positive environmental change.

Encourage small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) to share techniques for creating and producing in a way that is more environmentally friendly and socially responsible.

Encourage young designers to promote sustainable, ethical, and socially engaged fashion, textiles and related technologies.

The deadline for submitting a proposal is Monday, February 6, 2023. The funding is accessible to all designers, design entrepreneurs, and SMEs from the UK and Official Development Assistance (ODA) nations.

Professor Jane Harris, director of FTTI, said that the New Landscapes R&D pilot report shows how much potential there is to apply established research and implement environmentally and socially responsible practices in the fashion and textiles sector on a global scale. As the SME case studies demonstrate, the impact made possible by this knowledge exchange project in such a short amount of time greatly inspires us.