In a groundbreaking initiative, the Adan Zalando Black-Owned Brands Accelerator has set a new benchmark for fostering belonging and innovation within the fashion industry. The six-month programme, designed to upskill small Black-owned fashion brands, has been a beacon of hope and progress for underrepresented entrepreneurs. The accelerator featured seven remarkable brands: BAPTISTE, EMEKA, Emile Vidal Carr, Gravalot, LarAllan, Imi & Kimi, and Omi Woods. Each of the brands brought unique stories, creativity and a commitment to sustainability making them stand out in the competitive fashion landscape.
“The Adan Zalando Accelerator has been a transformative experience for our brand,” shared the team at BAPTISTE. “The mentorship and resources provided have equipped us with the tools to scale our business and reach new heights. We are grateful for the opportunity to showcase our bold designs and handmade heritage on a larger platform.” Such testimonials underscore the profound impact of this accelerator on participating brands.
The need for accelerators like this cannot be overstated. Systemic inequalities and biases have long been barriers for underrepresented founders in the fashion industry. Programmess like the Adan Zalando Accelerator are crucial in addressing these issues by providing tailored support and resources. By leveling the playing field these initiatives empower underserved entrepreneurs to thrive, contribute to economic growth and increase their visibility and customer base.
“Being part of this accelerator has been an incredible journey,” remarked EMEKA. “The focus on upcycling and sustainability aligns perfectly with our brand values. The support and guidance from the mentors have been invaluable in helping us navigate the complexities of the fashion industry.” This sentiment is echoed by the other brands highlighting the accelerator’s emphasis on sustainability and fair practices.
What sets the Adan Zalando Accelerator apart from others is its emphasis on mentoring. The programme provided intensive personal mentoring, which has been proven to significantly enhance the success of early-stage entrepreneurs. The mentors, who were deeply involved in the selection process, offered invaluable guidance across six critical dimensions: entrepreneurial human capital, network expansion, fundraising skills, legitimacy, psychological development, and operational progress. “The Adan Zalando Accelerator has been a game-changer for us,” said Emile Vidal Carr. “The comprehensive curriculum and hands-on mentoring have provided us with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in the competitive fashion market. We are excited to continue our growth and innovation.”
The six-month duration of the accelerator was meticulously planned to cover all elements necessary for brands to upscale to wholesale and e-commerce platforms. The programme included modules on brand building, onboarding requirements, marketing presence, product assurance, safety, logistics, and finance operations, a comprehensive curriculum that equipped the brands with the knowledge and skills required to succeed on major e-commerce platforms like Zalando. “The modules on brand building, marketing, and logistics have been particularly beneficial,” noted LarAllan. “We are honored to be part of this initiative and look forward to a sustainable future.”
One of the highlights of the accelerator was the pitch day to Zalando buyers. This event provided the participating brands with a unique opportunity to present their collections and business strategies to industry leaders. “The Adan Zalando Accelerator has provided us with a platform to showcase our unique blend of French savoir-faire, Afro heritage, and American culture,” said Imi & Kimi. “The mentoring and support have been exceptional, and we are excited about the future prospects for our brand.”
The culmination of the Pitch Day was an engaging panel discussion, which included representatives from Fashion Minority Alliance. Our involvement was a testament to the collaborative spirit of the programme which made being a part of the selection process, and the pitch day, an honour as it aligns perfectly with our mission to promote diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging for all in the fashion industry.
Reflecting on the success of the accelerator, Zalando stated, “The Adan Zalando Black-Owned Brands Accelerator represents our commitment to fostering diversity and inclusion in the fashion industry. By providing tailored support and resources, we are helping to level the playing field for Black-owned brands and ensuring their success on major e-commerce platforms. We are proud of the progress made and look forward to continuing this important work.”
Zalando’s commitment to leading the dialogue on sustainability and inclusivity is evident through initiatives like this accelerator. By fostering partnerships with underrepresented brands and providing them with the tools to succeed, Zalando is setting a precedent for a more equitable and sustainable fashion industry. “The accelerator has been a pivotal moment for our brand,” emphasized Omi Woods. “The guidance and resources provided have helped us refine our business strategies and expand our reach. We are grateful for the opportunity to be part of this transformative program.”
Fashion Minority Alliance is proud to have been involved in this transformative journey and we look forward to continuing our collaboration to create a brighter future for all brands. “Mentorship has been a cornerstone of this accelerator and its impact is evident in the success of the participating brands,” added Fashion Minority Alliance co-founder, Barbara Kennedy-Brown. “The hands-on approach and personalised guidance have empowered these entrepreneurs to navigate the complexities of the fashion industry and achieve their full potential. We are excited to see the continued growth and innovation from these talented brands.”