Bec & Bridge took out the inaugural DHL Fashion Export Scholarship in 2010 and one year on, emerging labels have the chance to follow in its footsteps.
The scholarship is on offer again from logistics company DHL Express and aims to assist up-and-coming Australian fashion labels in achieving international business growth.
The scholarship prize includes $10,000 worth of international freight as well as coaching in freight and logistics from DHL Express.
The prize is open to designers who have been exporting for less than four years.
DHL Express Oceania senior vice president Gary Edstein said the scholarship was a “unique opportunity” for fashion designers to receive an education in export services.
“DHL is a proud supporter of the Australian fashion industry and we're excited to have the opportunity to work with some inspiring home-grown designers and assist them in reaching their international exporting potential,” Edstein said.
Applications for the scholarship are now open and close Friday June 3, 2011. Applicants must submit a design portfolio and resume. Among the scholarship judges this year is marketing and communications director at IMG Fashion Asia Pacific, Graeme Lewsey. IMG Fashion is the organiser of Rosemount Australian Fashion Week.
Designer Bec Cooper said the scholarship had been "an incredible learning experience".
“The overseas demand for our designs has been both overwhelming and gratifying, and with the support of DHL Express we are able to get closer to realising our international potential,” Cooper said.
The award has also been administered in New Zealand for a number of years. Past winners of the New Zealand export scholarship include Stolen Girlfriends Club and Twenty Seven Names.