AZ ACADEMY: BUSINESS FOR DESIGNERS

We are honoured to announce our participation in the AZ Academy: BUSINESS FOR DESIGNERS programme, the new initiative launched by Richemont, created to honour the vision of the late Alber Elbaz in supporting emerging designers.

Born from the synergy between AZ Factory, Accademia Costume & Moda (ACM), and the Richemont Creative Academy, AZ Academy: BUSINESS FOR DESIGNERS aims to bridge a crucial gap by offering an unprecedented programme designed to equip designers with the essential skills and knowledge needed to transform their creative ideas into successful, investor-ready businesses.

Starting from May 2024, graduates and former students from all international fashion schools will be invited to apply for this new programme. Emerging creatives with proven talent (fashion, leather goods, accessories), recently graduated designers, and professional designers already active in the industry and at a turning point in their careers are all encouraged to submit an application.

In September 2024, the AZ Academy: BUSINESS FOR DESIGNERS jury of excellence, composed of key professionals shaping the fashion industry, will select the designers who will be awarded the prestigious scholarship sponsored by Richemont, and invite them to join the 12-month programme, which will take place in Milan starting from January 2025.

Creativity, innovation, sustainability, production, finance, legal, marketing, inclusivity, along with an immersive experience with suppliers and tutorship, are just some of the topics that will be explored throughout the AZ Academy: BUSINESS FOR DESIGNERS programme. The final stage of the programme will be a final presentation of a fully refined business proposal ready for pitching, including a collection and an industrial plan, aimed at potential investors interested in supporting new fashion ventures.

Lupo Lanzara, President of Accademia Costume & Moda, and Furio Francini, CEO of Accademia Costume & Moda, commented:

“We are truly delighted to be part of the AZ Academy project and would like to express our sincere gratitude to Richemont, the Creative Academy, and AZ Factory for the trust they have placed in us. Since its foundation, ACM has been committed to nurturing and supporting young talents, providing them with a solid foundation to pursue their passions and embark on a professional career.”

Philippe Fortunato, CEO of Fashion & Accessories Maisons at Richemont, commented:

“AZ Academy introduces a unique opportunity to help independent fashion designers turn their creative visions into successful businesses. Through this programme, Richemont reaffirms its commitment to supporting independent creation, in direct continuity with the story that began with AZ Factory.”

Nicolas Bos, CEO of Van Cleef & Arpels and President of the Creative Academy, commented:

“For over 20 years, the Creative Academy has been offering a unique design programme tailored to the ever-evolving needs of the luxury world. With AZ Academy, we are further expanding this support to independent fashion designers. We are thrilled to collaborate with an institution like Accademia Costume & Moda on this journey.”

Mauro Grimaldi, Strategic Advisor to the CEO of Fashion & Accessories Maisons at Richemont, commented:

“At AZ Academy, we will build a bridge between designers and investors, transforming creative visions into actionable business plans to attract investment. What better way to honour Alber Elbaz?”