Deep Tech Startup Nibertex Scores Funding for 'Groundbreaking' Textile Technology

Nibertex, a deep tech startup based in both Singapore and the Philippines, is set to boost the development of its groundbreaking PFAS-free membrane technology after successfully closing an oversubscribed funding round.

The undisclosed investment was led by Philippine venture capital fund Foxmont Capital Partners and backed by a consortium of Southeast Asian families.

With the additional funding, Nibertex is optimistic it could speed up the launch of its innovative PFAS-free membrane technology. It will also pave the way for the startup to expand their current capacity to meet more of the demand for their innovation.

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PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), usually found in textiles, is referred to as the “forever chemical” — components of which don’t break down quickly. It is used to make products grease, water, and stick-proof; as well as stain-resistant.

What Nibertex’s membrane offers, on the other hand, is breathability and water resistance without PFAS; and is thus “an environmentally safe, high-performance alternative.”

"Our aim is to pioneer material science innovations that are environmentally sound, serve our customers, and positively impact society,” Jae Hyung Park, one of two co-founders of Nibertex, said. 

“This funding not only validates our technology, but [also] greatly strengthens our market presence.”

Jelmer Ikink, founding partner at Foxmont, said it was “exciting to see that a technology with the potential to be applied to so many different use cases at a global scale has come from the Philippines.”

Nibertex, which claims to have a global presence in two countries and exports to more than 15 nations, was founded in 2019. It makes use of a proprietary electrospinning process to produce 100% PFAS-free nanofibers for various applications, starting off with textiles.

"As a leading provider of PFAS-free solutions, we are ready to assist brands and manufacturers in moving away from detrimental chemicals,” Jae Min Park, another co-founder of Nibertex, said.

"We are not just meeting new regulations. We are setting a benchmark for sustainable innovation across industries."