Fitbox, a monthly activewear subscription box service, said global fashion designer Rebecca Minkoff has become its new investor and mentor.

The partnership between Fitbox and Minkoff came about when founder and app developer Gregory Lowe presented his startup on an episode of Project Runway: Fashion Startup to the show’s panel of judges, which included Minkoff. At the conclusion of the show, Minkoff agreed to invest and mentor the startup.

“Fitbox offers a bridge in the unique intersection of membership and athleisure,” said Lowe, CEO of Fitbox. “Pairing excellent outfit curation and an easy to use mobile app, we look forward to working with Rebecca Minkoff to add structure to an oversaturated market.”

As an investor and mentor, Minkoff is assisting Fitbox in further developing its business model, securing key partnerships and expanding its footprint in the subscription box market. Minkoff introduced her first shopping concept at her flagship store in New York. The retail stores, also now in Los Angeles, San Francisco and Chicago, feature a digitally connected consumer experience that merges the online shopping experience with traditional brick and mortar.

“I was excited to partner with Fitbox because I saw a need in the market for replenishable, affordable athletic wear that one could have at their door monthly with brands they recognize and rely on,” said Minkoff. “I also love the mobile app and how it connects to everything you need to make your workouts successful with music, classes, and work out buddies.”

With athleisure wear growing into a $97 billion a year market, Fitbox said it is geared toward those who live an active and busy lifestyle and transition their athletic wear from the gym to work.

Photo courtesy Fitbox