Subscription-based, preloved kids' clothing community Swoperz has been named winner of the 2024 Circular Fashion Innovator’s Fund, launched by eBay UK and backed by the British Fashion Council.

The Fund offers £15,000 for each of the six sustainable business finalists, with an additional £10,000 for the overall winner. It aims to invest in and propel new technologies and services to enable a circular economy for fashion.

Alongside the financial support, finalists embark on a six-week mentoring program, gain access to industry networking opportunities and receive invaluable support from environmental charity Hubbub, an ongoing advisor for the Fund.

Commenting on the success, Swoperz co-founder Vicky Fuller said: “Not only will the £25,000 help us scale our business but the access to mentorship from fashion industry leaders will truly take us to the next level.

“eBay and the British Fashion Council share our vision for a sustainable future for fashion, and we can’t wait to share an update on our progress over the next year.”

Swoperz aims to transform the fashion industry, offering a sustainable solution to fast fashion by enabling children to swap their clothes in a secure, verified environment, with all transactions overseen by parents and caregivers.

The platform’s growth coincides with a robust period of consumer demand for secondhand fashion. Every minute five pre-loved dresses, two pairs of pre-loved jeans and eight pre-loved tops are sold on eBay in the UK.

eBay UK built on the success of last year to extend the Fund for a second cohort. In collaboration with the British Fashion Council, the initiative demonstrates a lasting dedication to a sustainable future for fashion.

Jemma Tadd, Head of Fashion, eBay UK, commented: “We are dedicated to empowering the UK's most innovative thinkers who are pioneering solutions for fashion waste and driving a circular fashion economy. I am immensely proud of this initiative and can’t wait to see this year’s Circular Fashion Innovator’s Fund winners grow with our support. Together, we are truly reimagining the future of fashion.”

Caroline Rush, CEO at the British Fashion Council, said: “We are delighted to work with eBay again on the Circular Fashion Innovator’s Fund. As an organisation, we have an important role to play in supporting and empowering businesses in preparing for positive change by embracing innovation. I look forward to following the remarkable advances which are being made in this year’s finalists.”

Visit Swoperz at www.swoperz.com.