F.A.S.T Accelerator Program has officially launched, led by FashionEVO and 360 Creative Innovation Hub, to support and scale emerging African fashion entrepreneurs. Specifically, the six-week hybrid program equips designers and creative founders with essential business skills, strategic mentorship, and access to markets. As a result, participants are better positioned to build sustainable, globally competitive fashion brands.
FashionEVO, in collaboration with 360 Creative Innovation Hub, created the F.A.S.T Accelerator Program (Fashion Advancement & Startup Training) to strengthen the business foundations of early-stage and emerging fashion businesses across Africa.
Bridging Critical Gaps in the African Fashion Ecosystem
The F.A.S.T Accelerator addresses long-standing gaps in the African fashion ecosystem. In particular, it targets weak business structures, limited market readiness, and scalability challenges. To tackle these issues, the program refines brand identity, strengthens operations, and improves pricing and production systems. Additionally, it enhances export readiness and promotes sustainable business practices.
Participants complete a two-week virtual learning phase. Following this, they participate in four weeks of intensive in-person training in Lagos, Nigeria. Together, these phases provide a practical, hands-on learning experience that produces measurable business results.
A Hybrid Fashion Accelerator Built for Scalable Growth
The F.A.S.T Accelerator supports fashion founders who want to scale with intention rather than guesswork. Specifically, it targets designers and creative entrepreneurs seeking clarity in operations, production planning, pricing strategy, and long-term growth.
Mentors with industry experience guide participants through structured sessions. At the same time, participants gain access to the extensive networks of FashionEVO and 360 Creative Innovation Hub. These networks include buyers, manufacturers, media platforms, and key stakeholders across Africa and beyond.
Needs-Driven Curriculum Rooted in African Market Realities
The program delivers training that is relevant, practical, and aligned with each participant’s specific business challenges. Moreover, it blends global fashion business best practices with African market realities. Beyond technical learning, the accelerator fosters peer learning, collaboration, and community building. In doing so, it creates a supportive environment where participants grow together while solving real business problems.
Industry Leaders Speak on the Vision Behind F.A.S.T
Dr. Yetty Ogunnubi, Founder of FashionEVO, explained that Africa has immense creative talent but often lacks the business structure for sustainable growth. For this reason, F.A.S.T combines creativity with strategy, access, and opportunity.
Mrs. Blessing Ebere, Founder of 360 Creative Innovation Hub, emphasized that the program removes barriers for emerging designers. She explained that F.A.S.T combines practical business training, access to infrastructure, and hands-on mentorship. Ultimately, the program focuses on building viable fashion businesses rather than promoting theory alone.
Who Can Apply for the F.A.S.T Accelerator Program
The F.A.S.T Accelerator Program welcomes emerging and early-stage fashion businesses across Africa. However, applicants must commit to the full six-week duration. In addition, they must participate in the needs-assessment process and show openness to mentorship, collaboration, and continuous learning.
By the end of the program, participants demonstrate stronger business structures. Furthermore, they develop clearer brand positioning and storytelling. Most importantly, they leave with actionable next steps to scale their fashion businesses.
Applications Now Open
Applications for the 2026 F.A.S.T Accelerator Program are now open. Interested applicants must submit their applications by February 13, 2026.
Apply here: https://bit.ly/FASTAccelerator2026
For sponsorship and partnership enquiries, contact: info@fashionevo.style
About FashionEVO
FashionEVO promotes African fashion and supports designers through innovative programs, events, and strategic partnerships. Its mission is to elevate the African fashion narrative globally, with a focus on sustainability, creativity, and long-term growth.
About 360 Creative Innovation Hub
360 Creative Innovation Hub is Nigeria’s pioneering fashion co-sewing and business acceleration hub. It addresses two major barriers for African designers: limited production capacity and weak business structures. Through co-sewing spaces, training programs, and access-to-market platforms, the Hub helps fashion entrepreneurs build structure, improve product quality, and reach local and global customers.
Together, FashionEVO and 360 Creative Innovation Hub remain committed to empowering the next generation of African fashion entrepreneurs to thrive locally and internationally.
