Post by : Maya Rahman

On Tuesday at Misk City in Riyadh, the Fashion Commission, along with Collateral Good, IE University, Misk City, Entrepreneurs’ Community by Misk, and Proaltus Capital Partners, unveiled the winners of the Saudi Fabric of the Future competition. This initiative accentuated sustainability, innovation, and investment within the Kingdom’s textile and fashion industries.

This forum convened a diverse group, including policymakers, investors, academicians, brands, and entrepreneurs, to deliberate on the future landscape of textile innovation in Saudi Arabia. Key discussions revolved around sustainable materials, cutting-edge textile technologies, climate-positive supply chains, and the pivotal role of investment in fostering innovative initiatives.

A standout moment of the event was the presentation of garments crafted from Red Sea seaweed. This groundbreaking fabric emerged from a partnership between the Fashion Commission, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), and PYRATEX. It exemplifies the Kingdom’s dedication to eco-friendly fashion by melding scientific exploration, responsible resource management, and advanced processes in sustainable textile manufacturing to create fully traceable, environmentally-friendly fibers.

Moreover, the forum featured an exciting startup pitch competition that acknowledged creativity and innovation within the fashion sector. Three aspiring startups earned recognition across various categories: Sci-Lume Labs secured the title of Best Sustainable Innovation, Texula received the Best Business Model, and Faircraft was awarded Best Pitch.

Each winning startup is set to benefit from an extensive growth package, which includes participating in an Immersion Day at HUGO BOSS Headquarters in Metzingen, strategic mentoring from IE University’s Fashion Department and Entrepreneurship Centre, along with partial scholarships for master’s programs. They will enjoy immersive mentoring with Collateral Good, addressing topics such as intellectual property, scaling operations, fundraising, and business development. Additionally, winners will gain exclusive entry into the Entrepreneurs’ Community by Misk, offering mentorship, investor relations, media visibility, and tailored business support, including potential funding pathways.

Burak Cakmak, CEO of the Fashion Commission, underscored the Kingdom’s aspiration to become a nexus for sustainable fashion innovation. “We aim to connect local talent, international startups, investors, and industry partners. By merging ideas, expertise, and collaborations, we are developing a fashion ecosystem that is both competitive and sustainable,” he stated.

Michael Kleindl, Founder and Managing Partner at Collateral Good, lauded Saudi Arabia’s commitment to circular fashion and sustainability. He remarked, “The Kingdom’s drive, opportunities, and focus on a circular textile system are truly inspirational. Today’s event marks a significant step forward in our collaboration with Saudi Arabia.”

The Fashion Commission actively continues to bolster a sustainable and innovative fashion landscape. The forum featured keynote speeches, roundtable discussions, and ample networking opportunities, fostering collaboration among local talents and international experts. By establishing Misk City as a creative and entrepreneurial hub, the commission empowers innovators to cultivate a sustainable and forward-thinking fashion ecosystem across both nonprofit and private sectors.

#GCC News #Saudi Arabia News #Gulf News #Fashion