New York-based startup Everbloom is spearheading a significant shift in the fashion industry by transforming pre-consumer protein waste into high-quality luxury textile fibers. This innovative approach offers a sustainable alternative to traditional materials like cashmere and wool, and the company has successfully secured $10 million in funding, indicating strong investor confidence in its proprietary technology.
At the core of Everbloom's innovation is a patented process that regenerates proteins at a molecular level. This allows for precise control over the resulting fiber's characteristics, such as softness and durability, setting it apart from conventional recycling methods that often produce lower-quality materials. Everbloom's strategy is to complement, rather than replace, existing natural fibers, thereby creating new opportunities for brands to explore innovative applications and designs.
The company is actively collaborating with renowned luxury fashion houses and mills, including Filati Biagioli Modesto, to ensure its fibers meet the highest quality standards. These collaborations involve working directly with brands' product development and sustainability teams to refine the fibers for seamless integration into various product lines. Filati Biagioli Modesto, a key partner, demonstrates a commitment to sustainability through its use of 100% renewable energy and adherence to the ZDHC Roadmap to Zero for chemical management, aligning with Everbloom's environmental ethos.
Everbloom's business model is supported by the substantial availability of pre-consumer protein waste, with an estimated over 20 billion pounds generated annually worldwide. The company has secured off-take agreements with suppliers to ensure a consistent feedstock, which is crucial for scaling production and meeting market demand. Environmentally, Everbloom's fibers offer profound benefits, requiring 99% less land and water and generating 80% fewer greenhouse gas emissions compared to traditional wool or cashmere production. This reduction is particularly significant as the fashion industry faces increasing pressure to minimize its ecological footprint.
By repurposing discarded proteins, Everbloom facilitates localized fiber production in the U.S. and Italy, reducing reliance on extensive global supply chains and contributing to better climate outcomes. The company plans to adapt its fibers for a wider range of applications and markets while maintaining its commitment to quality. The recent funding will support the expansion of partnerships with fashion brands and continued investment in research and development, reinforcing Everbloom's position as a leader in sustainable textile innovation. The global eco-fiber market is projected to reach $120.99 billion by 2032, with a compound annual growth rate of 8.8%, highlighting the significant market opportunity for companies like Everbloom.