Footlocker has made a $2 million investment into Pensole Inc. which operates Pensole Footwear Design Academy.
The two companies will collaborate on new educational programs as well as the design and manufacturing of exclusive products for Footlocker.
Pensole was founded by former Jordan design director D’Wayne Edwards to bring new designers into the footwear industry by ‘offering free tuition and a learn-by-doing curriculum that teaches students the entire footwear and apparel design process.’ According to a press release.
The Pensole design programme has helped 400 graduates into the sneaker industry since its first class in 2010.
"I am excited to deepen our relationship with Foot Locker so we can empower consumers to create their future through innovative educational programs," said Edwards. "It has always been our joint mission to foster the next generation of emerging footwear and apparel design talent, and I am confident that our collaboration will contribute to the continued growth of the academy, success of our students, and accelerated innovation in the footwear industry."
