Explanation
Background
This ordinance authorizes the City Clerk to enter into a grant agreement with CMH Fashion Week, Inc. in support of Fashion Week Columbus programming.
CMH Fashion Week (dba Columbus Fashion Council) advances Columbus’ fashion and creative economy by discovering, developing, celebrating, and showcasing local talent. The organization creates opportunities for designers, models, entrepreneurs, and creative professionals to connect, grow, and gain visibility while strengthening Columbus as a destination for fashion and culture.
Fashion Week Columbus is a weeklong celebration of fashion, creativity, entrepreneurship, and cultural expression that connects Columbus residents with local designers, models, artists, retailers, and creative professionals. The program serves emerging and established fashion talent, with a focus on increasing opportunities for historically underrepresented entrepreneurs. Through runway shows, educational programming, networking opportunities, and community partnerships, Fashion Week Columbus provides participants with visibility, professional development, and access to new audiences and markets.
Grant funding will support essential program and event expenses, allowing Fashion Week Columbus to deliver accessible, high-quality programming while strengthening Columbus’ creative economy and showcasing local talent. No grant funds will be used for any food or beverage expenses.
Since the organization lacks the funding necessary to operate the program fully on a reimbursement basis, funds will be advanced to CMH Fashion Week, Inc. in support of Fashion Week Columbus programming.
Fiscal Impact: Funding ($20,000.00) is available within the Neighborhood Initiatives subfund.
Emergency Designation: Emergency legislation is requested in order to ensure a timely issuance of grant funds in support of the program. Fashion Week begins November 8, 2026 and runs through November 14, 2026. Thirty day legislation would not go into effe...
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