Fashion Week San Diego, an event designed to grow the San Diego retail industry and serve as a launching pad for emerging designers, has announced the launch of Fashion Art Business Authority, a nonprofit organization dedicated to assisting developing fashion, art and other creative businesses. The organization will be led by Fashion Week founder and director Allison Andrews. Serving as a resource for San Diego entrepreneurs and small businesses, the authority will offer complimentary workshops and events within a range of creative fields, connecting developing businesses with industry leaders and peers for networking and mentorship opportunities. In addition, the authority will offer an annual ‘Be FAB’ award to financially assist these organizations and help them participate in Fashion Week runway shows or other relevant events within their appropriate space. “Small businesses are the engines of economic growth,” Andrews said. “Our mission is to provide the right tools and resources to help entrepreneurs thrive and contribute to the San Diego economy. Fashion Week San Diego has been a major supporter of emerging designers since inception, and we are thrilled to now have the FAB Authority in place to further aid the creative industry and help small business achieve their goals.” FAB Authority’s first workshop will be held on April 16 at the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising, 350 10th Ave. downtown, and will be focused around creating and optimizing websites to drive awareness and build brand image. For more information on Fashion Week San Diego, visit fashionweeksd.com.