TORONTO -- Target is teaming up with the Toronto Fashion Incubator to give an emerging designer a chance to create a line to be sold at its Canadian stores.
The discount giant is partnering with TFI for the TFI New Labels fashion design competition. The annual contest is dedicated as a showcase for a select group of up-and-coming Canadian designers.
The TFI New Labels winner will receive a $25,000 cash award from TFI supporter and philanthropist Suzanne Rogers, as well as the chance to create an exclusive collection to be sold in Target stores across Canada in 2014. The winner will also receive a full-page editorial feature in Flare magazine.
Edmonton native Sid Neigum was named the TFI New Labels winner at TFI's 25th anniversary gala in May.
TFI is a non-profit, small business centre that offers support and mentorship to budding Canadian fashion designers and entrepreneurs. The organization's concept has been adopted by cities worldwide, including New York, London, Milan, Melbourne, Auckland and Amsterdam.
"We are proud to partner with an organization that has paved the way for so many up and coming designers and are excited to showcase great design and make it accessible to our guests across the country," said John Morioka, Target's senior vice-president of merchandising, said in a statement.
TFI executive director Susan Langdon said with a guaranteed in-store collection on the line "the stakes are even higher" for their young designers.
"Target is known for their exclusive designer partnerships, and we are so pleased to be able to give one of our own such an amazing opportunity."
The TFI New Labels winner will be announced next April.
Target plans to open 125 to 135 stores in Canada starting next year.
