TômTex – Revolutionizing textiles with nature-inspired innovation

The textile industry is facing increasing scrutiny for its environmental impact, particularly in the production of traditional leather and synthetic fabrics, which are resource-intensive and environmentally damaging. TômTex, founded in 2020 by Uyen Tran, is a New York based biomaterial company aiming to change this narrative. Inspired by the significant textile waste she witnessed during her career in fashion design, Tran set out to create sustainable alternatives that mimic the aesthetics and functionality of leather, without the environmental burden.

Reimagining waste into sustainable textiles

TômTex utilizes chitosan – a biopolymer derived from shrimp shells and mushroom waste – to create a leather-like material that is 100% bio-based and biodegradable. Chitosan, the second most abundant biopolymer on Earth, oZers incredible versatility and environmental benefits. TômTex’s proprietary process involves extracting chitosan from seafood waste, which is then combined with other bio-based ingredients, such as mushroom mycelium, to create a durable and flexible material.

The production process is not only sustainable but also highly eZicient. TômTex’s materials are crafted using a low-energy, water-eZicient process that does not require toxic chemicals or high temperatures, unlike conventional leather tanning methods. Additionally, TômTex’s materials can be customized to replicate various textures, such as snakeskin or crocodile leather, and can be molded, stamped, or embossed in diZerent patterns. This versatility allows the material to be used across a wide range of applications, from fashion and accessories to home furnishings and automotive interiors. By turning food waste into high-performance textiles, TômTex is pioneering a new standard in sustainable materials.

Guiding through growth

Happiness Capital has played a crucial role in TômTex’s growth, providing the financial backing needed through a critical funding round in 2022, which allowed TômTex to scale its production and broaden its market reach. Beyond financial support, Happiness Capital has also offered strategic guidance, helping TômTex navigate the complexities of material science and enhance its product offerings. Their deep expertise in sustainability has been particularly valuable, perfectly aligning with TômTex’s mission to revolutionize the textile industry with eco-friendly materials. Additionally, Happiness Capital has utilized its extensive industry network to connect TômTex with key partners, facilitating essential collaborations that have significantly strengthened TômTex’s market position.

Scaling up for global impact

Since its founding, TômTex has achieved several key milestones, including securing $4.15 million in seed funding and advancing its production capabilities to support continuous roll-to-roll material production.

Looking ahead, TômTex is focused on scaling production, launching new products, and expanding its presence in global markets. The continued partnership with Happiness Capital remains a cornerstone of TômTex’s strategy, providing the resources, insights, and connections necessary to achieve their ambitious goals.