Where design gets down to business
From Wharton experts to industry luminaries, the Philadelphia Fashion Incubator brings Philly together around entrepreneurship. Together, we transform design talent into fashion companies with a defined presence in the marketplace.
About the Program
How It Works
Each year, we select a diverse range of dedicated designers and business people, focused on taking their vision to the next level, to participate in our designers-in-residence program. Over the next twelve months, our dynamic workshop-centered program connects them with the education, resources, connections, and business strategies necessary to grow their brands. We tap into our network of production pros, business buffs, marketing mavens, and entrepreneurial experts to guide these talented designers to their goals, step-by-step. Our active alumni community continues to stay connected through programming and events.
The Program
True-to-fashion-form, these areas are tailored to the needs and goals of the selected designers.
Business boot camp
A one-week immersion covering the full spectrum of business objectives:
Business Development
Merchandising
Marketing
Sales
Legal
Public relations
PA business set-up
Business workshops
Over fifty business workshops with a monthly focus, taught by industry leaders throughout the entire twelve-month program.
Retail critique
Business owners share their buying, pricing and merchandising strategies. Our designers present samples from their collections, leading to sales opportunities.
Industry Visits
Monthly trips to New York City give our designers the opportunity to attend wholesale trade shows, national press conferences, and to meet with industry leaders such as Steven Alan, Fern Mallis, Tommy Hilfiger, and Teri Agins.
Meetings and Consultations
Business owners share their buying, pricing and merchandising strategies. Our designers present samples from their collections, leading to sales opportunities.
Events
Pop-up shops, fashion shows, trunk shows and other special events increase our designers' exposure and provide them with valuable opportunities to showcase and sell their work.
Resources
Mentoring
A team of mentors supports our designers during the course of their residency, serving as a sounding board and advising designers on the development of their businesses and professional skills, along with design collection feedback.
Business Office Hours
Our designers meet monthly with Denise Dahlhoff, Research Director at Wharton, to receive input on their market research, brand strategy, and business plans.
Legal Office Hours
Our designers meet monthly with lawyers for pro-bono assistance with trademark and copyright registration, non-disclosure agreements, and contracts.