ABOUT
The BROOKLYN Fashion Incubator, Inc., is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization focusing on diversifying talent in the fashion industry by mentoring U.S. emerging fashion entrepreneurs. In the 12-month program, The BFI assists each Fashion Entrepreneur in Residence, very individually, to achieve their next individual level of growth and their overall business development.
In 2017 the BFI added a Remote Program for Fashion and Lifestyle businesses located outside of the Brooklyn metro area around the country and the world. The BFI is assisting businesses from Florida, Nevada, Pennsylvania, Illinois, and Massachusetts.
These benefits mirror the Designer in Residence program with the exception that the businesses are not housed at the Brooklyn Fashion Incubator.
MANAGEMENT TEAM
Executive Director
Maria Barraza
Maria is founder, president and chief designer of BARRAZA Associates, Ltd. - a NYC based, 26 years in business, manufacturing, and wholesale apparel firm with a retail division - BARRAZAStyle.
Partnerships Director
Rafael Romero
Rafael Romero is founder of TheROMEROgroup, a cause related media firm. Mr. Romero manages BFI's brand partnerships and sponsorships.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Gustavo Carvajal
Gustavo is the International Cultural Ambassador for Patronato Ruta de la Amistad (Mexico68.org) - 2012 World Monuments Watch, and Board Member of BFI. Gustavo holds degrees in Hotel & Tourism Business Management and Marketing.
Tatiana Whytelord
Tatiana is an Intellectual Property, Branding & Advertising Law Expert with over 25 years of experience gained at top tier law firms and multinationals in Canada, USA, France, Monaco, Italy, Mexico, UK and Australia.
Felipe Vasconcelos
Felipe Vasconcelos is a serial entrepreneur based in New York City. He started his first business at the age of 9, building and selling kites to neighborhood kids in Brazil. Felipe has owned successful businesses in a diversity of fields, including information technology, manufacturing, fashion, and cosmetics.
Tim Ceci
A senior retail executive with extensive leadership experience with; Saks Fifth Avenue, Banana
Republic, Gap International, Pier 1, Nike, Barneys New York and most recently VP North America
Retail for Celine/LVMH.