Oliver Shafaat of Sci-Lume Labs (11/13/2024) Pitch Presenter

In this episode of the Oklahoma Venture Forum podcast, host Lindsey Miller and guest Oliver Shafaat, CEO of Sci-Lume Labs, explore sustainability in the fashion industry.

Oliver shares his journey from a chemist working with spider silk in Japan to founding Sci-Lume Labs, which focuses on creating sustainable apparel fibers from protein-rich agricultural waste. They discuss the environmental impact of textile waste, with 85% ending up in landfills, and the importance of cost-competitive sustainable solutions.

Oliver Shafaat, '00:07:58', "In the US, the latest EPA numbers are about 85% of apparel fibers are either landfilled or incinerated for energy. Less than 1% of apparel is recycled back to apparel. That is staggering."

The episode also highlights the supportive entrepreneurial ecosystem in Oklahoma and the significance of networking and community support for startups.

Sci-Lume Labs, the Sustainable Clothing of the Future - https://www.sci-lumelabs.com/

The Oklahoma Venture Forum (OVF) is the state’s preeminent organization fostering innovation and economic growth. We introduce investors, mentors and support organizations to entrepreneurs, providing collaborative venues for sharing ideas. OVF champions small businesses and economic development by connecting and recognizing venture talents. Since our beginning, we have acted as the preeminent ecosystem for business innovation and entrepreneurship development. Our diverse membership includes investors, entrepreneurs, and service providers from a wide array of statewide industries. https://ovf.org