For the AW 2026 season, the Fashion Council Germany and the Berlin Senate Department for Economics, Energy and Public Enterprises / Project Future are once again launching the concept competition for Berlin Fashion Week. For the seventh time, creative presentation formats will be specifically supported – a clear indication of Berlin Fashion Week's commitment as a platform for emerging design talent. From August 28 to September 22, 2025, designers and fashion labels can apply for funding of up to €25,000. Support will be provided for innovative show, presentation, and event concepts that will be implemented during the upcoming Berlin Fashion Week from January 30 to February 2, 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 again be held in two categories: Berlin Contemporary and Studio2Retail.

BERLIN CONTEMPORARY (BC)

The 19 most innovative show and presentation concepts, distinguished by their sustainable and creative approach, will be awarded prizes. The evaluation will consider both submitted concepts and past collections and presentations. Particular emphasis will be placed on design achievement, craftsmanship, and commercial and economic potential. Following Berlin Contemporary's expansion to include international labels last season, up to five international labels can now be recognized 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 brick-and-mortar retailers will once again be awarded €5,000 each. These concepts aim to offer the general public the opportunity to experience Berlin Fashion Week beyond the catwalks. Evaluation criteria include sustainability, innovation, diversity, and potentially above-average media impact. The additional sixth prize money is once again being provided by Berliner Sparkasse.

Beyond the competition, the STUDIO2RETAIL initiative offers a diverse store overview as well as 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 period, 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 and application details can be found at: https://fashionweek.berlin/talent-support/concept-competition-aw26.html

*In addition to the prize money, this fashion label will receive support for show production and PR, including guest management through a local production agency. The winning brand is responsible for organizing travel, including travel and accommodation costs, as well as shipping the collection and handling customs clearance.