The Textile Innovation Engine of North Carolina has received $16 million in renewed funding from the National Science Foundation (NSF). The Textile Innovation Engine is a research initiative of The Industrial Commons and supports more than a dozen projects led by North Carolina State University (NC State) researchers. The funding could be extended to up to $45 million over three years.

The Textile Innovation Engine was launched in 2024 to support textile manufacturing, bolster supply chain resilience and foster the development of next-generation textile technologies.

“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,” says Krista Walton, vice chancellor for research and innovation, NC State. “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.”

Researchers from NC State’s Wilson College of Textiles are leading 19 of the Textile Innovation Engine’s research projects. These range from converting used military uniforms into new yarns and fabrics to transforming cotton textile waste into bio-based feedstock for 3D printing. NC State researchers are also involved in four translation projects, collaborating with startup companies to help move textile technologies closer to commercial viability.

“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,” says David Hinks, the Prakash Chand Kochhar Dean of NC State’s Wilson College of Textiles. “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.”

“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,” says Anne Wiper, CEO of the Textile Innovation Engine.

The engine’s region of service encompasses the textile supply chain in central and western North Carolina and extends into the Appalachian regions of upstate South Carolina, eastern Tennessee, and southern Virginia.

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