Natural Fiber Welding secures fresh investment

26/01/2026

Provest Equity Partners and CTW Venture Partners have invested in Natural Fiber Welding Inc as it expands production of its flagship innovations.

These include Pliant, a naturally cured performance rubber outsole, and Mirum, a material from natural raw materials that will work in shoe uppers and accessories.

The newly improved Pliant is currently available to place orders, with broader market expansion under way.

Steve Zika, CEO of NFW, said: "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."

NFW has attracted backing from BMW iVentures, Ralph Lauren Corporation, Allbirds and Asahi Kasei.

At the end of 2024,  founder Dr Luke Haverhals stepped down as CEO, just days after missing out on an award of £1 million from The Earthshot Prize.