Established by Hardison with help from the CFDA, the Designers Hub champions Black designers and Black-owned fashion brands and businesses, offering guidance and growth opportunities. Made possible by the CFDA‘s and Vogue’s “A Common Thread” fund and supported by Tom Ford International, the financial support is geared for businesses dealing with economic fallout caused by the coronavirus crisis.
In total, $150,000 is being distributed among the 10 recipients with each receiving about $15,000. After reuniting with the members of the Designers Hub in June for the first time since February, Hardison wanted to know how they were doing and she learned about the struggles they were facing. Ford said in a statement, “I have enormous respect for Bethann and her important work to bring diversity and equity to fashion. As both an American designer and chairman of the CFDA, I am happy that we are able to support the Designers Hub and help Black talents build their businesses, make their voices heard and leave their mark on the industry.”
About two months ago she learned via the aforementioned e-mail that Ford’s donation to A Common Thread was to be earmarked for her group. The funding will help the 10 companies pay invoices, buy fabrics, cover the costs of having garments finished and other expenses.