MIT-backed programme to support smart fabric entrepreneurs
17/04/2018
AFFOA was created in 2016 with over $300 million in funding from the US and regional governments. Its aim is to develop new fabrics and fibre-based products. To this end, in June 2017 it opened an advanced fabrics headquarters in Cambridge, Massachusetts.
Its partnership with MIT has resulted in the launch of the Advanced Fabrics Entrepreneurship Programme (AFEP). Those taking part in this year-long programme will have access to AFFOA’s advanced prototyping resources and to VMS’ mentoring expertise and educational services.
Its aim is to help early-stage entrepreneurs to get new commercial ventures off the ground. It will include workshops, lectures, networking events, one-on-one mentoring and other activities around the MIT campus.
The first 24 entrepreneurial teams began the programme this month. Among their ideas are: printed stretchable batteries; a smart bra that can detect early signs of heart disease; undergarments for soldiers that detect trauma and activate a tourniquet; and translucent athletic shoes.
In line with a key pillar of AFFOA’s mission, all participants in AFEP must agree to manufacture only in the US.
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