Kickstarter appoints fashion advisory board to support independent designers

Crowdfunding platform Kickstarter has launched a fashion advisory board featuring designers behind Collina Strada, Luar and Brandon Blackwood, as it expands support for independent fashion creators through its one million dollar Culture Fund.

The five-member board comprises Hillary Taymour of Collina Strada, Raul Lopez of Luar, Brandon Blackwood, Recho Omondi, founder of fashion podcast The Cutting Room Floor, and stylist and creative consultant Milton Dixon III, who is also a fashion ambassador at Kickstarter.

The initiative aims to connect emerging and independent designers with industry expertise, networks and funding opportunities, helping them develop projects while retaining creative control and ownership.

Through the end of 2026, the advisors will provide guidance to creators, participate in media engagement and contribute content to raise the visibility of independent fashion businesses.

The board builds on Kickstarter’s Culture Fund, launched in August 2026 with funding for independent creators across art, fashion, film and music. Financed entirely by Kickstarter and open to creators worldwide, the fund provides direct financial contributions to selected live campaigns hosted on the platform.

“Independent designers are shaping culture, but often face challenges finding the resources and support to bring their ideas to life and build sustainable businesses,” said Everette Taylor, chief executive officer of Kickstarter.

The fund and advisory board form part of the platform’s Power of Belief campaign, which centres on the role of community support in bringing creative ideas to life.