Saudi Fashion Forum Honors Winners for Sustainable Innovation

The Fashion Commission, Collateral Good, IE University, Misk City, Entrepreneurs’ Community by Misk, and Proaltus Capital Partners announced the winners of the Saudi Fabric of the Future competition on Tuesday at Misk City in Riyadh. The competition focused on sustainability, innovation, and investment in the Kingdom’s textile and fashion sectors.

The forum brought together policymakers, investors, academics, brands, and entrepreneurs to discuss the future of textile innovation in Saudi Arabia. Participants explored topics such as sustainable materials, advanced textile technologies, climate-positive supply chains, and the role of investment in supporting innovative solutions.

A highlight of the event was the unveiling of garments made from Red Sea seaweed. This innovative fabric is a result of collaboration between the Fashion Commission, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), and PYRATEX. It demonstrates the Kingdom’s commitment to eco-conscious fashion, combining scientific research, responsible resource use, and advanced sustainable textile manufacturing to create fully traceable and environmentally friendly fibers.

The forum also included a startup pitch competition, which celebrated creativity and innovation in the fashion industry. The three winning startups were recognized in different categories: Sci-Lume Labs won Best Sustainable Innovation, Texula received Best Business Model, and Faircraft earned Best Pitch.

Each winning startup will receive a comprehensive growth package. This includes participating in an Immersion Day at HUGO BOSS Headquarters in Metzingen, strategic mentoring from IE University’s Fashion Department and Entrepreneurship Centre, and partial scholarships for master’s programs. They will also benefit from full-day mentoring with Collateral Good covering IP, scaling, fundraising, and business development. Additionally, winners will gain exclusive membership in the Entrepreneurs’ Community by Misk, providing access to mentorship, investors, media exposure, and tailored business support, including potential funding opportunities.

Burak Cakmak, CEO of the Fashion Commission, said the Kingdom is committed to becoming a hub for sustainable fashion innovation. “Our role is to connect local talent, international startups, investors, and industry partners. By combining ideas, expertise, and collaborations, we are building a future-ready fashion ecosystem that is competitive and sustainable,” he said.

Michael Kleindl, Founder and Managing Partner at Collateral Good, praised Saudi Arabia’s focus on circular fashion and sustainability. He said, “The Kingdom’s energy, opportunities, and commitment to a circular textile system are inspiring. Today’s event marks a strong start to our partnership with Saudi Arabia.”

Through the forum, the Fashion Commission continues to support a sustainable and innovation-driven fashion industry. The event included keynotes, roundtables, and networking sessions that created opportunities for local talent to collaborate with global experts. By using Misk City as a hub for creativity and entrepreneurship, the commission empowers innovators to shape a sustainable and forward-looking fashion ecosystem across nonprofit and private sectors.