Business Cases

Growing the Slow Fashion Industry

Small But Perfect

The Small but Perfectly Formed programme accelerates transnational fashion projects to launch open innovation, circular, and sustainable solutions in just eight months. Co-funded by the European Commission, it supported 28 SMEs with €10,000 each, alongside online modules, bootcamps in three European cities, mentoring sessions with market experts, and R&D support. The journey concluded with a showcase of the collaborative projects.

The briefing

Impact Hub Lisbon took on the challenge of designing and delivering an acceleration programme that bridged fashion SMEs from various countries to foster collaborative and sustainable solutions. This involved managing the scouting and application process, selecting the right SMEs, and coordinating with international partners to ensure alignment and impact. The programme needed to address the specific challenges of the fashion sector while driving open innovation, circularity, and scalability. Furthermore, the SMEs’ journey had to be practical and transformative, guiding them from the initial development phase to presenting innovative prototypes.

The strategy

Our strategic approach centred on creating a participant-focused acceleration experience, combining dynamic online modules with immersive bootcamps in Lisbon, Berlin, and Athens. Every step was carefully designed to facilitate synergies among companies while addressing each SME’s unique challenges. By bringing together market experts and integrating personalised mentoring with collaborative activities, we ensured a hands-on, results-driven experience. The ultimate goal was clear: to empower each SME to create viable, innovative solutions and conclude with a strong, scalable prototype presentation.

The outcomes

  • 250 entrepreneurs enrolled from 29 countries
  • €288.000 invested in the 28 selected SMEs
  • 5 online training modules
  • 5 individual mentoring sessions
  • 3 bootcamps in Lisbon, Berlin, and Athens

Partners

Supported Businesses

Some of the 28 selected SMEs leading the way in transitioning to circular and sustainable business models.

Impact in your inbox!

Sign up for our free global membership perks, incredible opportunities and monthly inspiring updates!

Impact in your inbox!

Sign up for our free global membership perks, incredible opportunities and monthly inspiring updates!