The R|Elan Circular Design Challenge (CDC) returns for its eighth season as a flagship partnership under the India-France Year of Innovation 2026.
The platform continues to champion emerging design talent while deepening international collaboration in circular design, material innovation and sustainable fashion.
Since its 2018 launch in India, the Challenge has grown into a globally recognised accelerator for circular fashion entrepreneurs, designers and innovators.
The initiative was launched by Reliance Industries Limited’s R|Elan, the United Nations in India and Lakme Fashion Week as its founding partners.
Strategic collaborations with the Embassy of France in India and the Federation de la Haute Couture et de la Mode (FHCM) have since expanded its international reach significantly.
These partnerships have broadened mentorship opportunities and market access across Paris, London, Hong Kong and India for participating designers.
The 2026 edition attracted over 220 applications from around the world, with 23 semi-finalists shortlisted for regional jury rounds.
Regional jury rounds are scheduled to begin in Paris on 5 July, followed by the United Kingdom on 9 July, APAC on 24 July and India on 28 July.
Mr. Hemant D. Sharma of Reliance Industries said the Challenge equips emerging talent with the platform, mentorship and material innovation needed to transform circular ideas into commercially viable solutions.
UN Resident Coordinator Mr. Stefan Priesner highlighted India’s opportunity to lead the global transition towards circular fashion at scale.
Representatives from the French Institute in India and FHCM emphasised the role of international collaboration in accelerating sustainable innovation and nurturing the next generation of fashion entrepreneurs.
Following the regional rounds, finalists will enter an intensive mentorship programme before presenting their work to the Grand Jury at the United Nations Headquarters in New Delhi.
The eighth edition will culminate in a showcase at the French Embassy during Lakme Fashion Week x FDCI, where winners will be announced before industry leaders, media and sustainability advocates.
Reliance Industries Limited, India’s largest private sector company, ranks among the world’s leading businesses on the Fortune Global 500 and Forbes Global 2000.
The FHCM brings together luxury houses and emerging talent, organising Paris Fashion Week and Haute Couture Week while representing the broader French fashion ecosystem globally.