Natural Fiber Welding (NFW), a Peoria, Illinois-based materials science company developing high-performance, plant-based alternatives to petroleum-derived plastics and synthetics, said it has secured a strategic joint investment from Provest Equity Partners and CTW Venture Partners.
The company said the financing will support its next phase of growth, including commercialization and global scaling of its low-carbon materials platform built on proprietary green chemistry and materials science. Financial terms were not disclosed.
NFW is expanding production of two flagship innovations: PLIANT, described as the world’s first naturally cured performance rubber outsole, and MIRUM, an all-natural, plastic-free leather alternative. The company said these technologies form a scalable, regenerative circular materials platform designed to replace petroleum-based plastics and synthetic materials across industries without sacrificing performance, durability, or aesthetics.
NFW said the newest version of PLIANT is currently available for orders, with broader market expansion underway. The company is targeting continued growth across footwear and fashion, as well as automotive and industrial applications.
The company said it has previously attracted strategic backing from global brands and investors, including BMW iVentures, Ralph Lauren Corporation, Allbirds, and Asahi Kasei. NFW said the new partnership with Provest and CTW will emphasize operational execution, manufacturing scale, product innovation, and long-term value creation as it expands commercialization.
KEY QUOTES:
“This partnership marks an important inflection point for NFW as we continue our mission of bringing sustainable, high-performance materials to market. Provest’s operator-driven approach aligns closely with our needs as demand from global brand partners continues to grow. Together with CTW, we are strengthening the foundation required to scale responsibly and advance the next generation of plant-based materials.”
Steve Zika, Chief Executive Officer, Natural Fiber Welding
“NFW represents the type of platform we seek to support, where breakthrough science meets real industrial relevance. Our role is to help translate innovation into scalable, profitable growth as the company enters its next phase.”
Suhas Uppalapati, Chairman, Natural Fiber Welding; Managing Partner, Provest Equity Partners
