AFFOA Selects Four Companies to Accelerate Textile Innovation

The PAFF 3.0 initiative grants selected companies access to AFFOA’s prototyping facilities, testing infrastructure, and domestic supply chain network. By removing technical barriers, the program aims to expedite time-to-market for high-performance materials and advanced manufacturing processes.

Each awardee brings a distinct focus to the cohort. The Lycra Company plans to integrate 3D garment simulation software to modernize fit trials, while Gentex Corporation will utilize the partnership to automate labor-intensive helmet sewing operations. Ecotune is set to scale its bio-based, plastic-free textile coatings, aiming for price parity with conventional polyurethane. Finally, MacroCycle Technologies will leverage the collaboration to refine its SolvoGenesis platform, which converts post-consumer polyester waste into virgin-quality resin. According to AFFOA CEO Sasha Stolyarov, the selection process prioritized companies committed to solving real-world manufacturing challenges, such as production efficiency and sustainable material development.