Expression of Interest: Circular Fashion Hub & Young Makers Programme Partner
The Opportunity
The HW&FI CDT are offering a rent-free, high-quality studio for a year to a fashion and textile-focused business that aligns with circular economy principles. As part of this partnership, you will be expected to continue to deliver the fantastic Sustainable Young Makers programme into its third year, including facilitating workshops, mentoring participants, and supporting their project development.
This opportunity is about more than just a workspace; it’s a chance to contribute to the local community, make a mark in local young people’s lives and take an active role in advancing the acceleration of the circular economy in East London.
Welcome to The Loop
We’re leading a revolution in East London, a paradigm shift where community members aren’t just passive beneficiaries but active owners of change. At The Loop, we offer affordable spaces, free business support, and community forums designed to empower local people.
What We’ve Achieved So Far
● Built East London’s first circular economy hub The Loop.
● Re-Launched the Hackney Wick Town Hall
● Launched the Textile Reuse Hub and Sustainable Young Makers programme, in collaboration with Yodomo.
Over two years, we’ve welcomed hundreds of visitors, diverted significant wastefrom landfill, and helped 12 young makers achieve their dreams.
Year Three: A Call for New Energy and Vision
We are looking for a committed partner, (an individual or organisation), who understands East London’s spirit and can build meaningful connections. This partnership is about creating lasting impact through creativity, local engagement, and sustainable innovation. A business that can build on our success, refine our approach, and take our impact to the next level.
What We’re Offering:
● A rent-free, high-quality studio for a year.
● The opportunity to lead the Sustainable Young Makers programme, (funded and supported by us and our partners).
● A platform to educate residents and drive the shift from a linear to a circular economy, all from a street-facing retail studio.
● Access to our growing network to help sustain and grow your enterprise.
● A fully-equipped studio with a cutting table, industrial sewing machine and domestic machines for workshops, and a loom.
Expectations and Support
● You will be expected to deliver the Sustainable Young Makers programme, including facilitating workshops, mentoring participants, and supporting their project development.
● Regular check-ins and reporting will be required to track progress and outcomes related to agreements with our mission and our funders requirements.
● Studio use must align with sustainable fashion and circular economy principles. Personal projects are welcome but should complement rather than conflict with the overall mission.
Interested? Fill in the EOI form and we’ll get back to you.
Deadline for expressions of interest: Fri 21st March 2025
Frequently Asked Qustions
● Is the partner an existing organisation or individual? Either is welcome, as long as they align with the programme’s goals.
● What does ‘taking it to the next level’ mean? We’re looking for someone who can refine the experience, expand the reach, increase public engagement, or enhance financial sustainability.
● Is running the Sustainable Young Makers programme a prerequisite? Yes, applicants should be prepared to continue this initiative.
● Can the studio be used for other work? Of course, the space is for your business to operate from, but it support programme members and have a public facing element.
● Do you offer support for business development and sustainability? Yes, we will work with you throughout the process, supporting where we or our partners can, including access to our network and joint-funding bids.
● Who should people forward this to? We welcome applications from local talent but are open to those from outside Hackney Wick and Fish Island if they bring exceptional value.
● What happens after the rent-free year? Currently we only have an agreed year with our superior landlord. The partner may have the option to stay at a subsidised rate or reapply for support based on the success of the programme and status of the business.
● How many studios are available? One.
● What studio costs do I have to cover? Utilities, business rates, insurance.
● What makes a strong application? We are looking for sustainability-focused businesses with a clear community impact, strong leadership, and an inclusive approach.