Federica Leonetti
Project & Public Relations Manager | International Business Advisor amid Enterprise Europe Nework | Expert in Global SMEs Expansion & Strategic Partnerships
Dynamic and results-driven International Business Advisor and Project Manager with over 12 years of experience empowering SMEs and entrepreneurs in internationalization, innovation, and global market expansion.
Operating within Unioncamere Piemonte (Regional Union of the Chambers of commerce of Piedmont Region) —proud member of the **Enterprise Europe Network** (EEN), the world’s largest support network for SMEs—I specialize in forging meaningful connections, navigating European funding opportunities, and driving sustainable business models.
A recognized leader in the textile and fashion industry, I coordinate the Sector Group Textiles within EEN, uniting European fashion and textile producers to foster commercial partnerships, strategic collaborations, and sustainability initiatives.
As part of a team of 40 experts, I guide entrepreneurs in adopting forward-thinking business models while advocating for European policies on sustainable textiles.
Beyond Europe, I play a key role as Coordinator of Outreach & Engagement with non-EU countries within EEN’s Internationalization Thematic Group—facilitating global brokerage events, strengthening international networks, and bringing new markets into the fold.
I am deeply involved in #TorinoFashionWeek, an international platform spotlighting #emergingfashion, #innovativebrands, and #nichemarkets. I scout talent and companies worldwide, helping them gain visibility and access new opportunities. As Project Manager of #TorinoFashionMatch, the exclusive matchmaking event of TFW, I orchestrate high-level networking experiences to connect industry leaders, brands, and investors in fashion and textiles.
Passionate about international business development, strategic partnerships, and creative industries, I thrive on fostering innovation-driven ecosystems where entrepreneurs can scale and succeed globally.
3. How can the Middle East fashion sector balance rapid growth with sustainable practices, particularly in luxury and fast fashion?
The Middle East fashion sector is booming, with luxury and fast fashion driving rapid expansion—but sustainability is no longer optional. Middle East is not just catching up—it’s carving out a unique path where luxury, innovation, and sustainability can thrive together
To balance growth with responsible practices, the region is embracing a multi-pronged approach:
Government-led initiatives like Saudi Arabia’s Green Fashion Festival and the UAE’s Vision 2030 are promoting eco-conscious design and production.
Local designers and global brands are integrating sustainable materials, upcycling, and ethical labor practices into their collections.
Consumer awareness is rising—nearly half of Emirati shoppers say they’re willing to pay more for sustainable fashion, pushing brands to evolve.
Cultural heritage meets sustainability: Gen Z is driving demand for fashion that reflects identity and history, encouraging slower, more meaningful production.
4. How can governments in the region encourage sustainable fashion practices through policy, incentives, and consumer awareness campaigns?
Governments in the Middle East can play a transformative role in advancing sustainable fashion by combining smart policy-making, financial incentives, and targeted consumer awareness campaigns. Here's how they can make it happen:
Policy and Regulation
Set clear sustainability standards: Implement eco-design regulations and guidelines for textile production, waste management, and carbon emissions.
Support circular economy models: Encourage reuse, recycling, and repair through legal frameworks—like the UAE’s “Zero Waste to Landfill” initiative and the Dubai Sustainable Fashion Pact.
Create certification systems: Establish national labels for sustainable fashion to help consumers identify ethical products and reward compliant brands.
Incentives for Businesses
Tax breaks and subsidies: Offer financial incentives to brands that use sustainable materials, adopt low-impact production methods, or invest in local supply chains.
Funding for innovation: Support startups and designers working with bio-based textiles, digital fashion, or upcycling through grants and incubators.
Public-private partnerships: Collaborate with retailers and manufacturers to scale sustainable infrastructure, such as textile recycling facilities or green logistics.
Another important aspect is to create synergies with international networks that can support SMEs in scaling and innovating globally. The Enterprise Europe Network, supported by the European Commission, is one of the most prominent networks helping entrepreneurs grow and innovate at an international level. Active in over 40 countries, its global nodes assist SMEs in building international connections, fostering innovation, and establishing strategic partnerships that can elevate their business potential.
Consumer Awareness Campaigns
Education through media and schools: Launch national campaigns that highlight the environmental impact of fast fashion and promote conscious consumption.
Promote modest and sustainable fashion: Leverage cultural identity to align sustainability with traditional values, especially in countries like the UAE where modest fashion is prominent.
Support resale and rental platforms: Encourage consumers to explore second-hand and rental fashion through visibility and incentives, making sustainability aspirational and accessible.
2. How are European regulations, such as the EU Strategy for Sustainable and Circular Textiles, shaping global standards in sustainable fashion?
European regulations are rapidly becoming a blueprint for global sustainability in fashion. Europe isn’t just regulating—it’s leading a global movement toward a more ethical and resilient fashion ecosystem
By setting ambitious goals for 2030, such as ensuring all textile products are durable, repairable, recyclable, and largely made from recycled fibers, the EU is pushing brands to rethink design and production from the ground up. The introduction of Digital Product Passports, eco-design requirements, and Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) schemes is creating a ripple effect, encouraging transparency and accountability across supply chains.
These measures don’t just impact European markets—they influence global brands that want access to the EU and inspire other regions to adopt similar frameworks. As fast fashion faces increasing scrutiny, the EU’s stance is helping shift the narrative toward quality over quantity, circularity over disposability, and collaboration over competition.
1. How can the fashion industry scale the adoption of bio-based and circular materials while remaining affordable and accessible to consumers?
To scale the adoption of bio-based and circular materials while keeping fashion affordable and accessible, the industry must rethink its entire value chain. Affordability doesn’t mean cutting corners—it means designing smarter systems that benefit both people and the planet.
Invest in innovation at scale: Bio-based fibers from algae, fungi, and agricultural waste are becoming more cost-effective thanks to biotech advances and regenerative farming. Scaling production reduces unit costs and makes these materials competitive with synthetics.
Build circular infrastructure: Repair, resale, rental, and recycling models—especially when supported by digital tools like product passports—extend product life and reduce waste. This lowers the overall cost for consumers while promoting sustainability.
Collaborate across sectors: Partnerships between brands, suppliers, governments, and tech platforms can unlock shared resources and reduce duplication. Pre-competitive collaboration, like the Circular Fashion Partnership, shows how collective action can drive systemic change.
Educate and engage consumers: Transparency and storytelling matter. When consumers understand the environmental impact and value of circular fashion, they’re more likely to support it—even at a slightly higher price point.