PLC Detroit partners with Foot Locker’s Community & Impact to evolve the 2024 and 2025 THREADED programs into a nationwide accelerator platform to identify, develop and select the next generation of apparel brands to be sold at Foot Locker online.

Earn the opportunity to have your brand sold online at Foot Locker!

APPLY NOW

Program Format
Virtual Instruction
- Tuesdays & Thursdays
3:30 - 5:30PM ET (To be confirmed)
Dates
- Class Start: January 12, 2027
- Class End: March 18, 2027
You'll Receive
- Access to resources and mentorship from Foot Locker and PLC Detroit
- Free Tuition
- Industry Credential Certificate
- Networking Opportunities
- Increased Brand Equity
- Strategic Growth Support
Design Tracks
- Apparel Design
(must own your own brand)
Costs
- None
Class Size
- 15 Students

Key Dates:

Application Period: September 10, 2026 - October 18, 2026

Final Submission Due: October 18, 2026 11:59PM ET

Class Start: January 12, 2027

Final Presentation Day: March 18, 2027

Class End: March 18, 2027

01
Review the Playbook

Get all the key information like dates, submission requirements, class details and other information here.

View Threaded Playbook
02
Submission Example

Review the submission requirements and see an example for a quality application for your design track.

View Submission Example
03
Apply Now

Submit your application by:
October 18, 2026 @ 11:59PM.

Good Luck!

Apply Now

Why join THREADED?

We believe independent creators are connected by more than fashion—they're united by the stories they tell, the communities they represent, and the culture they help shape. THREADED exists to cultivate a network of emerging apparel brands and entrepreneurs, providing access to mentorship, industry resources, and meaningful connections. Selected participants will also have the opportunity to showcase and sell their products online through Foot Locker, bringing their unique perspective to a broader audience.

Choose Your Design Track

  • Apparel Design

    You must own your own apparel company that is currently in business

Build. Brand. Expand.

Got a clothing brand you're building from the ground up? THREADED by Foot Locker, Powered by PLC Detroit is back. With only 15 exclusive spots available, we're seeking entrepreneurs who are dedicated to their craft, committed to their vision, and ready to grow their impact.

APPLY NOW

  • Access to Resources and Mentorship: Gain valuable resources from Foot Locker and PLC Detroit, coupled with expert mentorship to help validate your brand and design ideas.
  • Networking Opportunities: Engage with industry experts and peers to expand your network, enhancing your brand's visibility and exposure.
  • Strategic Growth Support: Learn essential business strategies for the apparel and footwear industry, receive tailored advice for maximizing retail growth, and access tools to effectively build your brand.
  • Increase Brand Equity: Validate your brand ideas while increasing your customer base and overall brand equity through targeted insights and resources.

PROGRAM INSTRUCTORS

Dr. D'Wayne Edwards

President, PLC Detroit

Foot Locker Guest Lecturers

Industry Experts

Special Industry Expert Guests

Frequently Asked Questions
Tuition for the Threaded by Foot Locker/Powered by PLC program is 100% FREE
No, the Threaded by Foot Locker/Powered by PLC program is 100% virtual.
Yes, you can have 1 additional business partner participate in the program with you.
Any person 18 years of age + and a resident of the United States are eligible. You must currently own and operate an apparel brand. You also must complete all activities that fulfill the application requirements must be completed by the program's application deadline.
You will not be responsible for any costs of the program. Tuition is 100% FREE.
submission brief is a document that provides applicants with direction on their design submission. Our submission brief is a two-part brief that consist of the following: Part I - Show us your work For apparel and footwear design you must submit a pdf presentation of your original design. Your presentation should include a consumer, theme, inspiration, ideation, and final design. For color & material design you must submit a pdf presentation that consists of a consumer, theme, and moodboard and color palette. Part II - Tell us About Yourself Submit a 2-minute video answering a set of questions included in the video prompt.

Program Partners