Epoch Biodesign, a biotechnology startup developing enzymatic recycling technology, has raised £9 million in funding from lululemon, KOMPAS VC, Happiness Capital, Extantia and Leitmotif. The investment will accelerate the commercialisation of its recycled Nylon 6,6 and support the scaling of production from its pilot facility to a larger demonstration site to validate commercial-scale output.
The business is developing a Nylon 6,6 material that does not require virgin feedstock. Its process transforms waste garments and other nylon materials back into their original chemical building blocks, including adipic acid and HMDA, which are then used to produce new polymer and yarn at virgin quality. This enables recycling of materials that would otherwise be sent to landfill or incineration, including blended textiles, multi-layer laminates, coated fibres and mixed automotive plastics.
The funds will be used to accelerate global commercialisation and deepen partnerships across apparel and automotive sectors. The raise follows a memorandum of understanding with INVISTA and comes as Epoch approaches completion of its second and largest Nylon 6,6 biorecycling facility. The company aims to progress from multi-tonne production to multi-kilotonne scale and supply recycled Nylon 6,6 to partners across multiple industries.
We’re delighted to announce the closing of this strategic funding round, which includes investment from both existing investors and exciting new partners. From the apparel industry, we’re proud to receive fresh backing from lululemon, an athletic wear brand known for innovation and quality. We also welcome Leitmotif, a deep tech investor with strong ties into the automotive industry, which is a key sector for Epoch. Nylon 6,6 is a key material for both apparel and automotive industries, but a circular solution has yet to be successful at scale.
