eBay has announced the global expansion of its Circular Fashion Fund (CFF), aimed at helping fashion start-ups develop circular solutions, including rental, repair, and recycling services. Applications for the fund are open until November 15, with eBay inviting “innovative tech start-ups and small businesses” to apply via its website.
First launched in the UK in 2022, the fund, supported by the British Fashion Council, has already helped 15 businesses scale their circular initiatives. Among the beneficiaries are The Seam, a care and repair service, and RCYCL, a program focused on recycling unwearable clothing at home.
After a successful expansion to Australia last year, the CFF is now extending its reach to the US and Germany. eBay said the global expansion will help invest in businesses that introduce new technology and services, encouraging shoppers to think more sustainably.
The CFF will provide $1.2 million in global investment by the end of 2025. Start-ups in the relevant markets will also receive over 200 hours of mentoring and networking opportunities with industry experts.
Additionally, eBay Ventures will select one winner from the global finalists to be named ‘Circular Fashion Innovator of the Year’ and receive a $300,000 investment.
In the UK, the winner will receive a £50,000 cash prize, while the two runners-up will each receive £25,000. All three finalists will benefit from tailored mentoring sessions, educational workshops, and networking opportunities.
The UK judging panel includes industry leaders such as Caroline Rush, Chief Executive of the British Fashion Council; Charlotte Mair, founder and managing director of The Fitting Room; and Jane Shepherdson, chair of My Wardrobe HQ, among others.
Kirsty Keoghan, Global General Manager of Fashion at eBay, said the CFF is “a catalyst for collaboration” by combining eBay’s global reach with the innovation of start-ups. “We’re not only helping scale circular solutions but also uniting experts to reshape the future of fashion,” she said.
Last year’s UK winner, Vicky Fuller, co-founder of Swoperz, praised the impact of the fund. Swoperz, which runs a child-led clothing swapping service, used the prize to partner with new organizations and expand its sustainable fashion education to over 500 schools nationwide.
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