Under the TechStyle Erasmus+ Project, France, Sweden, Spain, Greece, Italy, and Türkiye will collaborate to develop AI-driven solutions for “circular and regenerative fashion” within the apparel and garment sector. Funded by the European Union’s Erasmus+ Programme, the project titled “TechStyle: AI-Driven Circular and Regenerative Fashion in VET Education” aims to lead the sector’s digital and sustainable transformation. From Türkiye, the Aegean Apparel Exporters Association will have a role in this project.
As the Turkish economy undergoes a disinflation process, labor-intensive industries are seeking new strategies to remain competitive in global markets. Türkiye’s apparel and garment industry aims to strengthen its global competitiveness by integrating AI more effectively across all stages—from design to production.
“TechStyle will accelerate transformation through AI”
Burak Sertbaş, Chair of EHKİB, emphasized that the project aligns with the EU’s Sustainable and Circular Textiles Strategy and AI regulations, stating: “TechStyle will focus on digital transformation by providing AI-supported solutions that optimize raw material procurement, waste reduction, and production efficiency in apparel and garment manufacturing. Sweden and France, known for their AI initiatives, will share best practices with Greece, Spain, Italy, and Türkiye—countries with strong textile traditions but in need of greater digital and green innovation.”
He noted that the project, with a budget of €250,000, will run for two years, adding: “Through TechStyle, EHKİB will enhance the digital skills of the workforce and guide the sector’s transition to data-driven, AI-powered solutions. This project will make a strong contribution to the sustainable transformation of apparel and garment industry.”
Project kicks off in France in November
The TechStyle Project will officially launch in November 2025 with an opening meeting in France. Through this initiative:
A vocational training program will be developed to support the integration of AI-driven models and technologies in the apparel industry,
The program will be made available to partner country companies via the TechStyle Platform,
At the local level, AI-based entrepreneurship skills for women will be a key focus,
At the national level, the project will enhance the competitiveness of the apparel sector, contributing to economic growth and export expansion,
In line with the EU Sustainable and Circular Textiles Strategy, the project will accelerate the sector’s adaptation to AI applications, fostering a sustainable and circular economy.
Through TechStyle, apparel employees, designers, entrepreneurs, and new graduates in the Aegean Region will directly benefit from training programs developed at the EU level.
