The Fashion Commission, Collateral Good, IE University, Mohammed Bin Salman Nonprofit City “Misk City”, Entrepreneurs’ Community by Misk, and Proaltus Capital Partners, proudly announce the successful conclusion of Saudi Fabric of the Future: Sustainability, Innovation & Investment, held on Tuesday at Misk City in Riyadh.
Hosted at the heart of Misk City, the forum gathered policymakers, investors, academics, brands, and entrepreneurs to shape the next chapter of textile innovation in the Kingdom. Discussions focused on sustainable materials, advanced textile technologies, climate-positive supply chains, and the role of venture investment in driving impactful solutions.
A highlight of the forum was the debut of garments made from Red Sea seaweed—a striking example of the Kingdom’s commitment to eco-conscious fashion. The innovative textile was developed in collaboration between the Fashion Commission, KAUST, and PYRATEX. The project brings together scientific research, responsible resource use, and advanced sustainable textile manufacturing to create a fully traceable, eco-conscious fiber.
The forum’s startup pitch contest showcased exceptional talent and innovation. The winners were:
• Best Sustainable Innovation: Sci-Lume Labs
• Best Business Model: Texula
• Best Pitch: Faircraft
The three winning startups, recognized for Best Sustainable Innovation, presented by Hugo Boss, Best Business Model, presented by Collateral Good, and Best Pitch, presented by IE University, received a comprehensive package to accelerate their growth. Hugo Boss will host an Immersion Day at HUGO BOSS Headquarters in Metzingen, and IE University will offer strategic mentoring from the Fashion Department & Entrepreneurship Centre, and a partial scholarship for a master's degree. Next, a full day of strategic mentoring with Collateral Good on IP, scaling, fundraising, and business development. Additionally, all winners will gain exclusive membership in the Entrepreneurs Community by Misk, with access to mentorship, investors, ecosystem leaders, media exposure, and tailored business support, including potential investment opportunities.
Burak Cakmak, CEO of the Fashion Commission, said: “At the Fashion Commission, we are committed to positioning Saudi Arabia as a center for sustainable innovation in the global fashion industry. Our role is to act as a catalyst, connecting local talent, international startups, investors, and industry partners to build new pathways for material innovation, responsible manufacturing, and long-term sector growth. By bringing together the right ideas, capabilities, and collaborations, we are laying the groundwork for a fashion ecosystem that is future ready, competitive, and rooted in sustainability.”
Michael Kleindl, Founder & Managing Partner at Collateral Good, added: “We - as Innovation and Circularity investors are truly inspired by the warm welcome, the energy, the opportunity and the commitment of the Kingdom towards a full Circular Textile System. Todays event represents a remarkable starting point in our partnership with Saudi Arabia.”
