Applications Open for R|Elan™ Circular Design Challenge: Rs 20 Lakh Prize for Sustainable Fashion Startups
Mumbai, 20th March 2025: The R|Elan™ Circular Design Challenge (CDC), a global platform supporting young fashion designers and entrepreneurs focused on circular solutions, has opened its application process for 2025. The challenge aims to promote sustainability in the fashion and textile industry by nurturing environmental champions and supporting circular business models.
Application Timeline:
Start Date: February 21, 2025
End Date: April 8, 2025
Result Announcement: October 9, 2025
Eligibility and Criteria:
Applicants must incorporate circularity in design and processes across the textile value chain, including fibre production, manufacturing, and post-consumer stages. Eligible practices include using recycled materials, adopting alternative dyes, improving resource efficiency, and reducing waste. Concepts must demonstrate measurable environmental and social benefits, such as pollution control, better working conditions, and improved livelihoods.
Preference will be given to solutions addressing multiple sustainable elements. Applicants must be Indian citizens or have a registered label in India. International applicants may apply under specific conditions.
Incentives:
Winner: ₹15 lakh cash prize sponsored by R|Elan™ and a solo showcase slot at Lakmé Fashion Week.
Runner-up: ₹5 lakh cash prize sponsored by R|Elan™.
Additional Incentives:
Stall space at Lakmé Fashion Week’s showroom with access to international buyers.
Six months of mentorship with a renowned international circular fashion expert.
Marketing and promotions through Lakmé Fashion Week channels and media.
All finalists benefit from a three-month mentorship program led by global experts in finance, design, business, and communications.
Focus Areas:
The challenge seeks innovators in areas such as circular fashion, upcycling and recycling, sustainable textiles and fabrics, footwear, accessories, and technology-driven solutions.
Submission Process:
Applications must be submitted by April 8, 2025, via the official website circulardesignchallenge.net. Shortlisted applicants will be informed via email.
For additional guidance, applicants can refer to the UNEP publication on Sustainability and Circularity in Textile Value Chain at this link.
Contact Information:
Organisation: R|Elan Circular Design Challenge
Contact Person: Amanda Cardoz (CDC Management)
Support Email: amanda.cardoz@ril.com
Application Inquiries: circulardesignchallenge@gmail.com
The R|Elan™ Circular Design Challenge aligns with India’s Mission LiFE, championed by the Prime Minister, promoting sustainable living and environmental responsibility in the fashion sector.
