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Woolmark Performance Challenge

The Competition

BE AT THE FOREFRONT OF INDUSTRY CHANGE

The Woolmark Performance Challenge is a problem-solving platform, bringing together leading performance apparel brands with a global pool of world-class talent. It is designed to facilitate innovative, environmentally-considerate product solutions for the sports and performance market, by harnessing the unique natural properties of Australian Merino wool.

The challenge also provides a unique learning experience for participants and awards the finalists and winners with opportunities for international travel, financial rewards, and potential for career development.

2023 Woolmark Performance Challenge

From Merino wool blended with marine waste to Merino wool/rubber blended materials, glucose-releasing technology and more, this year’s Woolmark Performance Challenge finalists drive fresh applications of Merino wool for the Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli sailing team.

Learn More

2023 COMPETITION PARTNER

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Past Partners

2022 Competition Partner 2021 Competition Partners 2020 Competition Partner 2018 and 2019 Partner

2023 Prizes Available

Finalists’ educational workshops

Finalists’ educational workshops

Pending global travel advisories, all finalists will be invited to attend a group workshop, providing international travel and networking opportunities.

Finalist Innovation Accelerator Program

Finalist Innovation Accelerator Program

A three-month mentoring scheme designed to accelerate the finalists’ concepts, enhance their skills as a creative thinker, and provide real-world advice on the practicalities of innovating for the textiles and apparel industry.

Internship within the Prada Style Depart

Internship within the Prada Style Depart

Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli will present the finalist deemed to have the most innovative design with an internship within the prestigious Prada Style Department.

Global Final Event Attendance

Global Final Event Attendance

All finalists will be hosted at an event where their innovations will be celebrated on stage amongst industry heavyweights.

The Research Bursary

The Research Bursary

A cash prize of €10,000 will be awarded to one finalist, who is deemed to have the best research-led proposal with most potential for development.

Institution Development Award

Institution Development Award

In recognition of their role in developing and supporting the growth of some of the most innovative minds, a €10,000 cash prize will be awarded to the institution that is judged to have encouraged the highest number of quality student submissions.

 

How to Enter

Step 1 Step 2 Step 3 Step 4

Step 1

Check your eligibility

To enter the Woolmark Performance Challenge, you must be currently enrolled in tertiary level education at a participating university. The challenge is open to all students at all levels of tertiary-level academia (from foundation/undergraduate to post-doctorate level), for individual entry only.

Your institution must also be registered for you to be eligible. Check the 2023 participating universities by clicking the link below. If your institution is not yet registered, please speak to your tutor or lecturer about participating and direct them to the link below.

View Participating Universities

Step 2

Register to gain access to learning resources

Student registrations are now open. While the submission deadline isn’t until 16th July 2023, make sure you register early to gain access to the category briefs and exclusive educational resources.

Step 3

Develop your proposal

Now is the time to think about the next big wool innovation. Whether you are a fibre scientist or fashion designer, our education program is designed to build your knowledge of Merino wool while you work on your innovation. 

Step 4

Submit your proposal

Once submitted, your proposal will be reviewed and judged by a panel of industry experts to determine the finalists, who will proceed to the finalist workshops and judging events.

KEY DATES (GMT)

20
Jul
2023
Student submissions closed
20
Oct
2023
Selection of the 2023 Woolmark Performance Challenge Finalists
28
Nov
2023
2023 Woolmark Performance Challenge Winner announced
Participating Universities

EDUCATIONAL PARTNERS

Educational partners

"EXPERIENCE THE POWER OF HUMAN CREATIVITY AND GOODWILL WHEN PEOPLE WORK TOGETHER TOWARD BETTERMENT OF HUMANITY."

HYOKYOUNG LEE, WPC 2019 WINNER
HYOKYOUNG LEE, WPC 2019 WINNER
Watch Now
Discover the 10 Woolmark Performance Challenge innovations set to shake up performance markets