What if the clothes you wore could be completely biodegradable, eliminating the need for harmful plastics and dyes? Join the host Steve Melito as we dive into the world of sustainable textiles with Valentina Gomez, co-founder and COO of Werewool. Valentina’s path from a denim mill in Colombia to pioneering innovations in biodegradable fibers is a testament to the power of passion and purpose. Her story unfolds from the bustling environment of the Fashion Institute of Technology, where she and her co-founder, Chewie, embraced the Biodesign Challenge and uncovered nature’s secrets in creating sustainable fabrics. Their vision? To change the textile industry by engineering proteins that mimic nature, offering eco-friendly alternatives that fit seamlessly into existing manufacturing systems.
As we reflect on the challenges of navigating the startup landscape, Valentina opens up about Werewool’s funding journey and pivotal milestones, including their first pilot program and revenue achievements. We’re excited to share news of their groundbreaking work on the world’s first biodegradable spandex, poised to disrupt the industry by addressing the need for blended fibers. For those eager to connect with the forefront of textile innovation, upcoming events like the New York State Innovation Summit in Syracuse present golden opportunities. Don’t miss this enlightening conversation with Valentina Gomez, as we explore the future of sustainable textiles and the profound impact of Werewool’s pioneering technology.
Listen to the podcast here.