Apply now: The concept competition for Berlin Fashion Week is entering its next season

Berlin, 28 August 2025:For the AW 2026 season, Fashion Council Germany and the Senate Department for Economic Affairs, Energy and Public Enterprises / Project Future are initiating the concept competition for Berlin Fashion Week once more. For the seventh time, creative presentation formats will be systematically promoted – a clear sign of Berlin Fashion Week's commitment as a platform for new design talent. From 28 August to 22 September 2025, designers and fashion labels can apply for funding of up to 25,000 euros. Support will be given to innovative shows, presentations and event concepts that will be implemented during the upcoming Berlin Fashion Week from 30 January to 2 February 2026. The competition is co-financed by the State of Berlin and the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) as part of the state initiative Project Future and will once again be held in two categories: Berlin Contemporary and Studio2Retail.

BERLIN CONTEMPORARY (BC)

The award recognises the 19 most innovative show and presentation concepts, which are distinguished by their sustainable and creative approach. During the evaluation both the submitted concepts, past collections and presentations will be considered. The focus is particularly on design performance, craftsmanship as well as commercial and economic potential. After Berlin Contemporary was opened to international labels last season, up to five international labels can now be awarded in the AW26 season, including at least one brand from an African country.

STUDIO2RETAIL (S2R)

In the STUDIO2RETAIL category, six B2C event concepts from German fashion labels and retailers will be awarded 5,000 euros each. These are intended to offer the general public the opportunity to experience Berlin Fashion Week besides the catwalks. Evaluation criteria include sustainability, innovation and diversity, as well as a potentially above-average media impact. The additional sixth prize money will again be provided by Berliner Sparkasse this season. Beyond the competition, the STUDIO2RETAIL initiative offers a diverse store overview and an ‘Open to Public’ event calendar with events that will be accessible to all fashion enthusiasts during Berlin Fashion Week.

At the end of the application phase, a jury of international and independent industry experts will select the winners in both categories. The winning concepts are expected to be announced in mid-October 2025.

Further information about the competition and application can be found here.

Application period: 28 August – 22 September 2025