In a move set to ignite opportunities and break down barriers, Nordstrom has joined forces with ICON360, the philanthropic arm of Harlem Fashion Row, to offer funding to aspiring Black designers and fashion enthusiasts across Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).

The newly launched 360 Fashion Scholarship is a beacon of hope for rising sophomores and juniors enrolled in HBCUs, paving the way for students with dreams of making it big in the fashion industry. Spanning various disciplines such as fashion design, marketing, journalism, business administration, and public relations, the scholarship opens doors to a myriad of career pathways.

With the application window remaining open until March 15, 2024, eligible students are encouraged to seize the opportunity to secure not only financial aid but also a priceless semester-long mentorship with seasoned leaders in the retail fashion domain.

At the core of ICON360's mission lies a dedication to leveling the playing field for Black designers. By offering crucial financial resources and invaluable professional development opportunities, the organization aims to dismantle systemic inequities and empower the next generation of fashion trailblazers.

Past initiatives spearheaded by ICON360, including transformative internships and scholarships in collaboration with BELK and the Closing the Gap Initiative for HBCUs, underscore the organization's unwavering commitment to supporting and nurturing Black students along their fashion career journeys.

it was ICON360's authentic relationships with HBCUs that support students' fashion education that was appealing to Nordstrom and its' goals. Colleen Mitchell, Nordstrom's Senior Director of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging, emphasized the importance of investing in enhanced pathways for burgeoning talent in the fashion, design, and retail spheres, “Nordstrom set ambitious marketplace diversity and equity commitments. To reach these goals, we need to invest in improved pathways for fashion, design and retail talent.” 

Since its inception in 2007, Harlem's Fashion Row, under the leadership of CEO and Founder Brandice Daniel, has served as a catalyst for change, bridging the gap between designers of color and esteemed brands such as Target, Covergirl, Pandora Jewelry, BET, and Macy's.

Nordstrom's collaboration with Harlem Fashion Row is far from a one-off endeavor, with the retail giant actively engaging with HBCUs through recruitment initiatives and employment opportunities for HBCU alumni. Recent endeavors, including the launch of Computing Career Exploration and Introduction to Tech Product Management courses at Morehouse College, underscore Nordstrom's commitment to nurturing talent within historically marginalized communities.

Furthermore, Nordstrom's dedication to fostering excellence extends beyond the classroom, with the company's coaching efforts propelling students from Fisk University, Huston-Tillotson University, and Morehouse College to victory in the esteemed HBCU Battle of the Brains.

As Nordstrom and ICON360 join forces to chart a new course towards inclusivity and empowerment within the fashion industry, their collaborative efforts serve as a beacon of hope and a testament to the transformative power of partnership.

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