Giving creators tools, networks and confidence

Through the Textile Movement Talent programme, ten creators had the opportunity to develop their businesses, deepen their understanding of the industry ecosystem, and find their role in the circular transition. The result was both personal and professional growth and a growing network of designers committed to building the future of sustainable fashion.

A programme for the future of sustainable fashion

The Talent programme was part of Textile Movement’s focus area Talent, which supports the next generation of creators and businesses in the textile and fashion sector.
Its goal was to explore how a targeted support programme can help creators grow, as entrepreneurs, and as co-creators of a more sustainable industry.

– We wanted to create a setting where creators not only develop their design, but also understand their role within a larger system – how business, sustainability and innovation are interconnected. When you’re given the right conditions and feel part of something bigger, that’s when ideas really start to grow. – Nana Sacko

The project was led by Nana Sacko at Lindholmen Science Park, who coordinated the initiative and connected the participants with key actors across West Sweden’s innovation ecosystem.

Collaboration that builds confidence

In the spring, ten companies were selected through an open call, based on their creative quality, sustainable practices and potential to contribute to circular solutions.
Through an intensive programme, participants took part in workshops, mentoring and hands-on learning in collaboration with Swedish Fashion Council, Tillskärarakademin Göteborg, Wargön Innovation, Drivhuset Göteborg och Nordiska Textilakademin.

The mix of inspiration and practical assignments covered topics such as budgeting, brand positioning, textile sorting, local production and 3D design. Many participants described how meeting different stake holders gave them a more holistic view of the links between creativity, business and sustainability. Several said the programme gave them courage to think bigger, set clearer goals and move forward with their businesses.

The programme was well-planned and clearly structured. You could tell there was a common thread and purpose behind every step

Kristine Boström

Growing together

Beyond knowledge and tools, the programme fostered a strong community where designers could share experiences, challenges and ideas. For many, it was the first time they had found a professional context that truly recognised their role and allowed them to grow together.

It’s been so valuable to exchange experiences with other independent fashion designers, I’ve really missed that sense of community.

Linda Dekhla

For several participants, the programme provided motivation and courage to take the next step in their own business. Through recurring assignments and individual guidance, they received support to create structure, set clear goals and turn ideas into concrete action.

The evaluation shows that the participants gained a deeper understanding of the textile ecosystem in West Sweden, what resources and collaboration partners exist, and how to actually connect with them. What had previously felt distant or unclear has become more accessible and easier to act on.

I’ve gained a better understanding of the infrastructure in Västra Götaland. I knew which actors existed, but now I understand how I can collaborate with them.

Matilda Sundkler

A model with potential for the creative industries

The programme also raised visibility for both participants and Textile Movement Talent through several panel talks in collaboration with Röhsska Museum. These became important platforms to highlight local talent, showcase opportunities and challenges within the industry, and create valuable meeting points for knowledge exchange and networking.

Being part of Textile Movement’s talent programme has felt like a stamp of trust, it’s made both me and my company more visible.

Audrey Baba

The initiative has shown strong potential for the region’s creative industries by gathering and supporting emerging talent within fashion and textiles. Nana Sacko sees great promise in the method and hopes the experience can inspire similar programmes, not only in fashion and textiles, but across the wider creative sector.

The programme demonstrated how targeted efforts can create real value for creators and laid an important foundation for future talent development initiatives. It strengthens Västra Götaland as a creative and innovative region for the fashion and textile industry.

– By offering more talents the right environment and tailored support from experts, while also meeting the needs of the industry , we aim to keep developing and refining the model to create the best possible conditions for growth. – Nana Sacko.

participants of the programme 2025

Missing from the group photo is Sara Muñoz, who left the programme early due to maternity leave.