Project Funway 2025 Combines Fashion Innovation with Support for Homeless Women Through Fresh Start Home Benefit

Project Funway, an annual fashion design competition and runway show, demonstrates how creative innovation can drive meaningful social impact by supporting Fresh Start Home, a non-profit housing program dedicated to women experiencing homelessness. The event brings together University of Nebraska-Lincoln students and local designers who transform cast-off materials into stunning fashion pieces, highlighting sustainability while addressing critical community needs.

The integration of fashion and philanthropy creates a powerful platform for raising awareness and funds. A representative from Charity Ace, which assists with fundraising efforts, emphasized the event's dual purpose: "The essence of Project Funway lies in its ability to merge innovation in design with a meaningful impact on the community." This approach has proven successful, with the 2024 event featuring 49 unique designs that captivated over 260 attendees, demonstrating growing public engagement with both fashion and the cause it supports.

Scheduled for November 7 at The Marriott Cornhusker Hotel, the 2025 event continues this tradition while expanding its fundraising mechanisms. Beyond ticket sales, a special raffle package offers attendees additional ways to contribute, with prizes including a luxurious hotel stay, gift cards, and VIP tickets. Raffle tickets are priced at $10 each, making participation accessible while maximizing donations for Fresh Start Home's vital services.

The event's sponsorship structure further amplifies its impact, with various levels including Exclusive Runway, Red Carpet, Auction, Wine Pull, Trendsetter, and Vogue Small Business sponsors. These partnerships, combined with collaboration from the UNL Dept. of Textiles, Merchandising, and Fashion Design, ensure that Project Funway not only showcases emerging talent but also sustains long-term support for women transitioning out of homelessness through stable housing solutions.