Natural Fiber Welding Inc., a Peoria, Illinois‑based developer of high‑performance, plant‑based materials, received a strategic investment from Provest Equity Partners and CTW Venture Partners.

The amount of the deal was not disclosed. In conjunction with the funding, Suhas Uppalapati (Managing Partner of Provest Equity Partners) is joining the company’s board as Chairman.

The company intends to use the funds to accelerate the commercialization and global scaling of its low‑carbon materials platform, specifically expanding production for its flagship innovations.

Led by CEO Steve Zika, Natural Fiber Welding develops plastic‑free materials made from renewable plants, including PLIANT™, a naturally cured performance rubber, and MIRUM®, an all‑natural leather alternative.

The company has already received strategic backing from global brands such as BMW iVentures, Ralph Lauren Corporation, Allbirds, and Asahi Kasei, and has made its newly improved PLIANT™ material available for market orders.