The Vogue Singapore Innovation Prize, now in its fourth year, has once again partnered with BMW, a global leader in automotive innovation, to empower the next generation of Asian entrepreneurs. The prize, which aims to identify and support groundbreaking ideas in the fashion and lifestyle industries, saw a surge in applications from across Asia this year.
Shortlisted applicants were invited to a two-day bootcamp curated by Vogue Singapore, featuring an impressive lineup of speakers. Global leaders shared their expertise on digital innovation, creative direction, design, media, brand storytelling, marketing, and more. Notable speakers included Corey Moran, Head of Industry, Fashion and Luxury at Google; Indian couture designer Gaurav Gupta; and Renzo Vitale, Creative Director of Sound Design at BMW.
The bootcamp provided valuable insights into the current landscape of the fashion industry and the opportunities presented by new technologies. Liz Bacelar, Executive Director of Global Tech Innovation at Estée Lauder Companies Inc., highlighted the potential of AI and digital tokens in revolutionizing retail experiences. Alexis Bonhomme, VP of Global Industry Partnerships at Farfetch, emphasized the importance of developing a strong brand image through price discipline, volume restriction, and strategic distribution.
Sustainability was also a central theme, with Zhang Ting Ting, Chief Executive Officer of the Singapore Fashion Council, discussing the challenges and opportunities in building a more sustainable fashion industry. The bootcamp also explored the role of innovation in creating products that are both functional and meaningful. Renzo Vitale, drawing from his experience collaborating with composer Hans Zimmer on the BMW Concept i4, stressed the importance of unlearning and relearning to drive impactful innovation.
Following the bootcamp, ten finalists were selected: Off/Script, Kibo, PAKT, GoPlay Cosmetics, Carl Jan Cruz, FabriX, ANGUS TSUI, Sodhani Biotech, Supermodel, and KHAAR. These businesses will now participate in a mentorship phase, where they will be evaluated on their innovation, execution, design, and sustainability. The winner will receive an all-expenses-paid trip to Monaco, including mentorship sessions, workshops, investor meetings, and events.
The Vogue Singapore Innovation Prize is a testament to the power of collaboration and the potential of emerging talent to drive positive change in the fashion industry. The bootcamp provided invaluable insights and connections for the shortlisted businesses, and the competition continues to provide a platform for groundbreaking ideas to flourish.
