Refiberd’s Trailblazer win was announced at the Global Fashion Summit: Copenhagen Edition 2025, a premier event focused on sustainability within the fashion industry, hosted by Global Fashion Agenda (GFA).
A panel of industry specialists selected Refiberd for its potential systemic impact, as evidenced by their detailed application and presentation.
Go deeper with GlobalData
The company, chosen from the ‘Closed Loop Pathways’ category, has developed a technology that combines hyperspectral imaging with artificial intelligence to determine the material composition of textiles, which is crucial for advancements in recycling, resale authentication, and traceability in textiles.
Global Fashion Agenda CEO Federica Marchionni said: “At this year’s summit, we are challenging the industry to address its greatest obstacles and implement proven catalysts for change. Refiberd exemplifies how technological innovation can help bridge longstanding structural gaps in the fashion system. Their solution reflects the spirit of the Trailblazer Programme and the theme of ‘Barriers and Bridges’ by turning challenge into opportunity. We are proud to support their journey and continue fostering a space where collaboration across sectors enables transformation at scale.”
Refiberd will benefit from strategic business and operational support from PDS Group, as well as assistance in development and commercialisation from Positive Materials, a subsidiary focused on innovation.
Refiberd co-founder & CEO Sarika Bajaj said: “Having our technology be recognised by so many influential members of the fashion and textile industry is incredible validation for our team, and we are so grateful that the judges recognised the need for more accurate material data across the supply chain.
US Tariffs are shifting - will you react or anticipate?
Don’t let policy changes catch you off guard. Stay proactive with real-time data and expert analysis.
By GlobalData“This opportunity comes at a critical growth point for Refiberd, and we are thrilled to work towards scaling our technology with the support of the Trailblazer Programme, PDS Ventures, and Global Fashion Agenda.”
In its second year, it received applications from over 200 entities in 44 countries across six continents, which is almost twice as many as the previous year.
Nine innovators were chosen after thorough evaluation by a jury composed of members from Ralph Lauren, Fashion for Good, Zalando, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, GFA, and PDS Ventures.
This year’s programme focused on three innovation pillars crucial for sustainable fashion: Working With Nature, Closed Loop Pathways, and Tech Powered Transformation.
Runners-up included Manny AI for its AI platform under Tech Powered Transformation and Material under Working With Nature for its less toxic polymer production method.
PDS executive vice chairman Pallak Seth said: “Now in its second year, the Trailblazer Programme has seen incredible momentum, attracting applicants from six continents and showcasing a diverse mix of pioneering solutions. This growing global response reflects the commitment of PDS Ventures, in collaboration with Global Fashion Agenda, to empower founders who are reimagining fashion for a more sustainable future. The 2025 edition sets a new benchmark for excellence, demonstrating the calibre of talent shaping the next era of fashion—one that is more circular, equitable, and climate-conscious.”
