UK fashion SMEs are invited to apply for thefashion adaptor programme 2025, hosted by the European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT) Culture & Creativity. It is a 10-week training programme designed to help brands transition from conventional production to circular, resource-conscious models. It aims to support SMEs to set measurable goals and build a practical roadmap for transformation via mentoring, peer collaboration and a digital circularity tool. Although the programme does not offer financial support in 2025, the travel costs will be covered to attend the final event.The deadline for applications is 2September 2025 at 6pmBrussels time / CET.Applications are welcomed from SMEs that:are established in an EU Member State or Horizon Europe associated country(UK companies are eligible to apply)meet theEuropean Commission's SME definitionare developing circular solutions aligned with EIT Culture & Creativity's challengesalready have products available through stockists or direct-to-consumer channelshave a sound financial plan for 2026/2027Up to two representatives per SME can participate in mentoring, coaching and peer sessions. It is expected the cohort will include up to 30 SMEs.The programme involves:seven mentoring and coaching sessionspeer-to-peer collaboration with fellow SMEsuse of a digital circularity tool to input real data, benchmark performance and test scenariosThe curriculum is built around four pillars of capital, quality, globality and material innovation.It will conclude with a demo day where SMEs showcase their strategies and outcomes.By the end of the programme, organisers say the SMEs will have:a clear strategy for circular transformationa structured approach to minimising waste and overproductionmeasurable targets for recycled and regenerative materialsa roadmap toward durable, repairable productstransparent impact communication toolsevidence of social impact across the fashion value chainFind out more and apply
