Kenji Higashi, Spiber’s Executive Vice President of Sustainability, has been selected to serve as an advisory board member for the Kering Generation Award x Japan. This prestigious award program, launched in March 2024, seeks to identify and support promising startups and innovations that bring positive environmental and social impact within the sustainable fashion and beauty sectors.

The Kering Generation Award focuses on two key sub-themes: Alternative Raw Materials / Manufacturing (Group A) and Retail / Consumer Engagement (Group B). This year’s program attracted over 120 applications from forward-thinking startups and professionals. After a rigorous selection process, 11 finalists were chosen to participate in an intensive program featuring special lectures by experts and mentorship by the CIC Institute.

On November 8, the finalists presented their ideas at a pitch session held at Kering Japan’s headquarters in Omotesando, Tokyo. The selected top three, who will be announced at a ceremony in March 2025, will receive unique opportunities, including a special training session in Europe to connect with industry leaders in fashion and beauty. The first-place winner will also receive a monetary prize of 10 million yen to further develop their project.

Spiber congratulates all the finalists and looks forward to contributing to this impactful program through Kenji’s role on the advisory board.