CFDA & NYEDC / Fashion Manufacturing Initiative (FMI)

In 2013, NYCEDC and CFDA launched the FMI’s Grant Fund to provide local production facilities with funding for equipment and technology upgrades, employees skills training, business development consultants, capital improvements to their facilities, and relocation costs in New York City. FMI has also included business development opportunities for grant recipients, such as subsidized industry trade show participation, CFDA designer Open Houses and consumer-focused retail partnerships merchandising NYC designed and made apparel to a global audience. The initiative also seeks to encourage and motivate emerging and established designers to produce in New York City, strengthening the value proposition and consumer demand for locally manufactured products to a U.S.-based and global audience.