Training Institute
The Custom Collaborative Training Institute is a free, 15-week workforce development program that provides education and training, equipping women with skills to design, sew, and sell sustainable fashion.
74%
retention of Training Institute participants across 15 Cohorts
Where Ambition & Access Meet
Open to all experience levels, the program blends technical training in garment construction and made-to-measure clothing with business education, leadership development, and hands-on sustainability practices.
The curriculum builds skills progressively each week, covering everything from garment construction and finishes to marketing, sourcing, ethical manufacturing, and personal finance.
Participants also receive financial coaching, a stipend, and transit fare assistance to reduce barriers to participation.
They end the program with a public runway showcase and leave with portfolio-ready work, a completed business plan, and the toolkit to launch a career in fashion.
Ready to apply?
Check our eligibility requirements to see if this opportunity is right for you.
Penny’s Story
Photo courtesy of Theory
With the right support, Penny turned determination into a career.
Penny came to Custom Collaborative with zero sewing experience — just a strong desire to learn. Training Institute Manager Delia Alleyne quickly recognized her natural aptness for the craft, particularly in pattern making, which many participants find particularly challenging.
After graduating from Cohort 9, Penny stayed connected to the CC community, making her a top contender when Theory sought apprentices for their Theory for Good program. During the six-month apprenticeship, she upcycled damaged products at Theory's NYC atelier and proved so capable that other departments requested her help when they needed extra hands.
At the end of her internship, Penny was offered a permanent position as a Mark Maker — an opportunity she never would have dreamed possible. Though many at the atelier have worked there for 15–20 years, she has quickly become a valued part of the team!
"She had a yearning and a quest for learning. 'Let me help; let me learn.' Not everybody has that." — SVP of Sustainability, Theory
For Partners
None of this happens alone. Learn what you can do to support our proven training model.
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Contribute your knowledge and resources as a guest instructor! Partner with us to develop and enhance our curriculum, offer workshops, or provide mentorship to our participants.
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After 15 weeks of training, our participants celebrate with a public runway showcase. Support our graduates by hosting us in your event space.
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Work in fashion or own a business? Host a tour or immersion experience for our participants and help expand their understanding of industry opportunities through firsthand experts like you.
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Sponsoring our graduation showcase is a direct investment in emerging talent. From refreshments to videography to financial backing, every contribution helps bring the future of fashion to life.
Iisis, Cohort 10:
"The Training Institute helped me tremendously by giving me the confidence to believe that I can accomplish anything I set my mind to."
