Applications Now Open: Sustainable Young Makers Programme Returns for 2026
Supporting the next generation of sustainable designers and makers through practical skills, mentoring and studio access.
Facilitated by FibreLab in partnership with The Trampery and the Hackney Wick & Fish Island Community Development Trust, the programme is back for another year with two new pathways designed to support emerging creatives at various stages of their journey.
Previous Sustainable Young Makers Cohort, Image courtesy of Yodomo
The programme reflects a shared commitment to making creativity more accessible and inclusive. As a purpose-led, B Corp-certified enterprise, The Trampery centres its mission on making business a positive force in society by supporting under-represented entrepreneurs, promoting inclusion, championing sustainable business practices and helping communities thrive. Through this partnership, we are working together to remove barriers to creative careers while strengthening East London's growing circular economy.
Originally developed and facilitated by Yodomo, the Sustainable Young Makers Programme has supported young creatives through practical skills development, mentoring and industry connections. Building on this strong foundation, FibreLab is proud to facilitate the next chapter of the programme, expanding opportunities for emerging makers through its Circular Textile Recycling & Innovation Hub and growing network of partners.
Two Pathways for Emerging Makers
This year's programme has been redesigned into two complementary pathways, recognising that young creatives are often at different stages of their journey.
Cohort 1: Explore
Applications now open
Explore is the first pathway of the Sustainable Young Makers Programme, designed for young people aged 16–25 who are passionate about sustainable fashion, textiles and making.
Participants will receive:
Five days of intensive, hands-on creative workshops commencing 24th - 28th August
Training in textile recycling methods, spinning, weaving, natural dyeing and upcycling
Three months of supervised studio access with industrial sewing machine
One-to-one mentoring from industry professionals
Access to specialist equipment at the Innovation Hub in Fish Island
The opportunity to exhibit work in a public showcase
Who can apply?
Young people aged 16–25
An interest in sustainable fashion, textiles or circular design
Priority will be given to applicants living, studying or working in Hackney, Tower Hamlets, Newham and Waltham Forest
Available to attend all days of the workshop training
Applications close: Thursday, 13 August 2026 at 11:59pm
Cohort 2: Evolve
Launching January 2027
The second pathway, Evolve, is designed for emerging creative entrepreneurs and sustainable businesses looking to develop their professional practice. Alongside hands-on making, participants will explore circular business models, sustainable brand development and industry readiness through specialist workshops, mentoring and continued studio access. Full details and applications for Evolve will be announced later this year, closer to the programme launch.
A Community Effort
The Sustainable Young Makers Programme is built on collaboration, and we're inviting our wider creative network to get involved.
If you're a designer, maker, educator or industry professional and would like to contribute mentoring, guest workshops, professional expertise, materials or other in-kind support, we'd love to hear from you. Every contribution helps provide meaningful opportunities for the next generation of sustainable creatives.