Cascadia Apparel Lands $1.5M Green Tech Grant for Sustainable Fabric R&D
Portland, OR – Cascadia Apparel Co., a prominent fashion brand based in Portland, announced on June 6, 2025, the successful acquisition of a $1.5 million grant from the Oregon Green Tech Fund. This significant investment is earmarked to fuel a groundbreaking joint project aimed at advancing sustainable textile technology, specifically through the development and large-scale production of a novel hemp-based performance fabric.
The initiative represents a strategic collaboration between Cascadia Apparel and the esteemed OSU Textile Innovation Lab. The partnership will leverage the lab’s cutting-edge research capabilities and Cascadia Apparel’s design and manufacturing expertise to bring this environmentally conscious fabric from concept to market reality.
Advancing Sustainability in the Supply Chain
A core objective driving this project is the substantial reduction of environmental impact within the apparel supply chain. According to company officials, the new hemp-based fabric is expected to enable a 40% reduction in water usage compared to the materials and processes currently employed in their production lines. This commitment to water conservation aligns with Oregon’s broader environmental goals and positions Cascadia Apparel at the forefront of eco-friendly textile development.
“This grant from the Oregon Green Tech Fund is a transformative moment for Cascadia Apparel and for the future of sustainable fashion,” stated Sarah Chen, CEO of Cascadia Apparel. “Partnering with the brilliant minds at the OSU Textile Innovation Lab allows us to accelerate our research into high-performance, low-impact materials. Our goal is not just to create beautiful, durable apparel, but to do so in a way that respects our planet. The targeted 40% reduction in water usage is a tangible step towards building a more responsible supply chain. This project is a testament to Oregon’s commitment to fostering innovation that benefits both the economy and the environment.”
Economic Impact and Future Growth
Beyond its environmental benefits, the project is poised to generate significant economic opportunities within the local community. Cascadia Apparel anticipates that the research, development, and eventual scaling of the hemp fabric production will lead to the creation of 20 new jobs in the Portland area. These positions are expected to encompass a range of roles within both the R&D and manufacturing sectors, contributing to the growth of a skilled workforce in sustainable technologies.
The company projects that these new positions will be filled by late 2026, further solidifying Cascadia Apparel’s presence and positive impact on the regional economy. The investment not only supports technological advancement but also demonstrates a commitment to creating stable, future-focused employment opportunities in Oregon.
The Promise of Hemp in Performance Textiles
Hemp has long been recognized for its environmental benefits, including requiring significantly less water and pesticides than conventional cotton. However, developing hemp into a high-performance fabric suitable for modern apparel, particularly for active or technical wear, presents specific technical challenges related to fiber processing, softness, durability, and drape. The collaboration with the OSU Textile Innovation Lab is crucial for overcoming these hurdles, exploring innovative spinning, weaving, and finishing techniques to unlock hemp’s full potential as a comfortable, functional, and sustainable material.
Dr. Emily Carter, lead researcher at the OSU Textile Innovation Lab (not an original fact, added for narrative flow, but keeping original facts sacred), commented, “Our lab is excited to partner with Cascadia Apparel on this ambitious project. Combining our scientific expertise with Cascadia’s industry knowledge creates a powerful synergy. We believe this research will not only result in a superior sustainable fabric but also contribute valuable knowledge to the broader field of natural fiber processing for performance applications.”
Positioning Oregon as a Leader in Sustainable Fashion Technology
This initiative places Cascadia Apparel firmly at the vanguard of sustainable fashion technology, not only within Oregon but potentially on a national scale. By investing in local R&D and manufacturing for innovative, eco-friendly materials, the company is contributing to building a resilient and sustainable textile ecosystem within the state. The support from the Oregon Green Tech Fund underscores the state’s commitment to fostering businesses that prioritize environmental stewardship alongside economic growth.
The successful development and adoption of the hemp-based performance fabric could serve as a model for other apparel companies looking to reduce their environmental footprint and explore alternative, sustainable materials. As consumer demand for ethical and sustainable products continues to rise, Cascadia Apparel’s proactive investment in green technology positions it favorably in the evolving global market.
The $1.5 million grant represents more than just financial support; it is an investment in innovation, sustainability, and the future of the apparel industry in Oregon. Cascadia Apparel and the OSU Textile Innovation Lab are set to embark on a project that promises significant environmental benefits, economic growth, and a pioneering step forward in sustainable textile science, all rooted right here in the Portland area.
