The NSF Textile Innovation Engine has received renewed financial backing from the National Science Foundation (NSF), strengthening efforts to accelerate textile innovation, advanced manufacturing and supply chain resilience across North Carolina and the wider Appalachian region.
The latest funding package provides $16 million to continue the initiative’s work, with the possibility of total support reaching $45 million over the next three years. The programme, launched in 2024 and led by The Industrial Commons, brings together researchers, manufacturers, entrepreneurs and industry partners to develop next-generation textile technologies and strengthen domestic manufacturing capabilities.
North Carolina State University remains at the centre of the initiative, with researchers from the Wilson College of Textiles leading 19 research projects covering a broad range of innovations. Current work includes converting discarded military uniforms into new textile fibres and fabrics, as well as transforming cotton waste into bio-based raw materials suitable for 3D printing applications.
The NSF Textile Innovation Engine also supports four technology translation projects that connect university research with startup companies, helping promising innovations progress toward commercial production.
Krista Walton, NC State’s vice chancellor for research and innovation, said: “The Textile Innovation Engine continues to help the NC State research community connect with projects that bring meaningful benefits to North Carolina and the nation. Our researchers are developing innovative solutions ranging from new wound-healing materials to embedded sensors that ensure seatbelts and load straps aren’t strained to the point of failure. We’re eager to continue translating research into real-world impact.”
David Hinks, dean of NC State’s Wilson College of Textiles, highlighted the wider economic significance of the programme.
“Through the Textile Innovation Engine, NSF is enabling transformative research to support the success of current and future entrepreneurs, create advanced manufacturing jobs that don’t yet exist, and power innovation here in North Carolina and beyond. This additional funding will empower the Engine and its partners to meet the challenges our industry faces with innovative advanced manufacturing solutions that benefit all.”
Looking ahead, the initiative plans to place greater emphasis on bridging laboratory research with industrial production while expanding the use of artificial intelligence and robotics to improve manufacturing performance.
Anne Wiper, CEO of the NSF Textile Innovation Engine, said: “The next three years will be focused on connecting research to real-world production, leveraging advancements in AI and robotics to support manufacturers, and building the workforce needed to compete globally.”
Led by The Industrial Commons, the initiative serves textile manufacturing clusters across central and western North Carolina while extending into parts of South Carolina, Tennessee and Virginia. By combining research, workforce development and commercial partnerships, the NSF Textile Innovation Engine aims to strengthen the competitiveness of the US textile industry and accelerate the adoption of advanced textile technologies.
