Zalando and VORN – The Berlin Fashion Hub Launch Fourth Edition of Design Academy: NOVA
Zalando and VORN – The Berlin Fashion Hub Launch Fourth Edition of Design Academy: NOVA
Berlin, April 7, 2025 – Zalando, Europe’s leading online multi-brand fashion destination, in partnership with VORN – The Berlin Fashion Hub, is proud to announce the launch of the fourth edition of their Design Academy, named NOVA. This unique educational programme is dedicated to empowering emerging designers across Europe by providing unparalleled access to cutting-edge material innovations and industry expertise.
At a time when the fashion industry is undergoing significant change due to technological innovations, increased sustainability awareness and changing social and regulatory requirements, the Design Academy wants to be a catalyst for positive change. NOVA is therefore focusing on material innovation, a key lever for a more sustainable fashion industry.
Material innovations – whether bio-based, cellulose-based, recycled or technologically advanced – are currently rare and rather expensive for independent designers and smaller labels. NOVA is trying to close this gap by offering participants the unique opportunity to explore and experiment with these materials and integrate them into their design processes. This will unlock new creative potential and ultimately trigger more innovative applications in the future.
About the Design Academy
Beyond providing access to rare resources, the Design Academy offers applicants now for the 4th time a comprehensive learning experience. Participants will work with seasoned mentors from a wide range of backgrounds, including design, materials science, sustainability and business development. The mentors will equip emerging talent with the knowledge and skills they need to navigate and influence the evolving fashion world. Through shared learning and mutual support, participants will become part of a growing European network for emerging young talents who break down barriers and drive innovation together.
Who can apply
Freelance designers and designers from emerging and established brands are eligible to apply. Brands must be based in Europe, and accessory brands are excluded from participation.
Applications can be submitted from April 7 to May 12, 2025, through VORN’s website, where more details about the criteria for participation can be found.
NOVA is looking for bold talents who dare to step out of their comfort zones and combine their creative vision with a forward-thinking mindset. Designed for those who see design not just as an aesthetic endeavour, but as a powerful tool for social and environmental change, this fourth edition of the Design Academy offers a rare opportunity to be part of a movement that is transforming the fashion industry from within.
Zalando SE Boiler Plate EN
About Zalando
Founded in Berlin in 2008, Zalando is the leading European technology platform for fashion and lifestyle. Connecting 62 million active customers with more than 7,000 brands across 29 markets, our business is built on a unique AI-powered data and infrastructure platform. For our customers, our multi-app approach - comprising Zalando, ABOUT YOU, and Lounge by Zalando - delivers an inspiring, highly personalized shopping experience, serving different customers with different needs. For our partners, we are building the operating system for e-commerce. Through ZEOS, Tradebyte, and SCAYLE, we open our logistics, software, and service capabilities to brands and retailers, enabling them to seamlessly scale their businesses across borders.
For further information, please visit: corporate.zalando.com/en
Contact Corporate Communications
Corporate Communications
press@zalando.com
About VORN – The Berlin Fashion Hub
VORN – The Berlin Fashion Hub is a collaborative platform dedicated to fostering innovation and sustainability in the fashion industry. Based in Berlin, VORN brings together designers, technologists, and industry experts to explore new ideas and drive the future of fashion.