Open Call: Global Edit

The comprehensive programme is designed to follow designers in their journey from concept to global market launch while addressing the unique challenges faced by designers. Adapting the programme to designers’ individual needs provides necessary support from the initial to final stages of their creative and business process, from realization of the collection to facilitating opportunities to regional and international markets.  

Selected designers will receive tailored mentorship and brand consultation in areas of:

• Artistic Direction 
• Collection Development 
• Buyer Relation 
• Sales and Marketing  
• Distribution strategy 
• PR and Communication   
• Budget and Finance  
  

They will also have the opportunity to present their collections at major fashion events regionally or internationally depending on which track the designer will be selected on in Dubai, Riyadh, Milan, and Paris, fostering connections with global industry leaders and buyers. 

CALLING FOR:

Experienced fashion designers within the following category:

• Ready to wear (Prêt-à-Porter)
• Evening Wear /Formal Wear
• Haute Couture
• Traditional Wear
• Accessories and Leather Goods
• Footwear

SELECTION CRITERIA:

Regional Track:

• Open to fashion designers who are looking to expand regionally.
• Applicants brand must be registered in Qatar.
• Applicants must have operational experience for a minimum of 1 year.
• Applicants must display individuality, compelling storytelling that conveys the essence of their brand.

International Track:

• Open to fashion designers seeking guidance to navigate the international fashion market.
• Applicants brand must be registered in Qatar or in the Middle East region.
• Applicants must have operational experience for a minimum of 3 years.
• Applicants must display individuality, compelling storytelling that conveys the essence of their brand.
• Applicants must display cohesiveness in their collection and show potential and growth.
• Designers must be capable of producing commercially viable collections.

Following an initial screening process, preselected applicants will be invited to introduce their brand to a jury panel composed of industry experts and M7 team.

Designers selected in the programme will receive year-long guidance from M7 including dedicated mentorship starting from June 2025.

Please fill out the application below and submit the necessary documents required to process your application.  

Last Application deadline: 8 March 2025.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ)

Q: Who can apply for the Program?
A: The program is open to designers in all fashion categories with at least one to three years of operational experience and the ability to develop and produce a commercially viable collection.

Q: How long is the duration of the Programme?
A: The Global Edit lasts approximately 4 to 7 months, depending on the track you are selected for, which, when combined with the international showcase and other development opportunities, totals one year of support. After this period, participants may continue to receive ongoing guidance as needed to help grow their brand and explore new opportunities.

Q: What is expected from designers when I join this Program?
A: Designers are expected to actively engage in mentorship sessions, commit to creating a collection, share relevant brand/business details, and stay on schedule. Sessions may be online or in-person. You may also be asked to cover your own travel expenses for international opportunities included in the program. The M7 Team will determine the best fit for each designer regarding those opportunities.

Q: If not selected, can I apply to the next wave?
A: Yes, if you are not selected, you are welcome to apply for the next wave of the program. We encourage you to continue developing your work and stay engaged with the M7 Team, as new opportunities may arise. Each wave may have different criteria or opportunities, so we recommend staying updated and refining your application for the next round.

Q: What kind of mentorship is provided?
A: Mentorship covers a wide range of areas, including Brand Identity & Positioning, Marketing and E-Commerce, Business Planning, Collection Development, International expansion, Sales & Distribution, Buyers relations and more, tailored to the specific needs of each designer.

Q: Will participants have the opportunity to showcase their work?
A: Yes, participants will have the opportunity to showcase their collections at major fashion events in cities like Dubai, Riyadh, Milan, and Paris, offering invaluable exposure and networking opportunities. The specific city and event will be selected in consultation with your mentor and the M7 Team, based on where your brand has the greatest potential for growth and expansion.

Q: Is the Programme open only to Qatari Brands?
A: No, the programme is open to fashion brands from across the Middle East region. However, only locally based brands in Qatar are eligible for the regional track. Brands from other Middle Eastern countries can apply for the international track, as long as they meet the criteria. If selected for the international track, they will be supported in establishing a presence in Qatar by opening a business branch.

Q: What if my brand is not registered in Qatar?

A: M7 has introduced the 'Creative Licensing' program, which can guide you through the process of registering your business in Qatar. For more details, please check the link below: Creative Licensing - M7

Q: How does this Programme align with M7’s mission?
A: The program supports M7’s mission by enhancing industry skills, promoting international scalability, aligning designers with global fashion timelines, and elevating their visual identities to meet international standards.

Q: Is there a cost to participate in the Programme?
A: There is no upfront cost to participate in the program. However, participants may be asked to cover their own travel expenses for international opportunities or showcases included in the program.