.

The pursuit of innovation in textile research received a significant boost in 2024 with the AATCC Foundation awarding $10,000 in grants to support academic endeavors across a diverse array of topics. From denim recycling to tissue engineering, the funded projects showcase the breadth and depth of exploration within the textile industry.

This year, 18 students from 7 universities were selected as recipients of the AATCC Foundation grants, reflecting the organization's commitment to nurturing talent and fostering academic excellence. Notably, the grants are not confined to traditional textile departments but extend to various disciplines such as consumer sciences, material science, bioengineering, and design, among others.

The grants, ranging from $500 to $4,000, are allocated towards materials and research expenses, providing vital support for students' endeavors to push the boundaries of textile innovation. Furthermore, recipients have the opportunity to receive a travel stipend, enabling them to showcase their work at professional conferences and engage with industry experts and peers.

AATCC ensures that the selected topics and final reports are publicized, aiming to inspire other members of the textile community to engage with and build upon the research findings. By fostering a culture of collaboration and knowledge-sharing, the foundation fulfills its mission of empowering an innovative, informed, and sustainable future for the textile industry.

As the curtain closes on the 2024 grant cycle, attention turns towards the future as the application period for the 2025 AATCC Foundation grant funding is set to open in June. With a deadline of October 15, 2024, aspiring researchers and academic institutions are encouraged to seize this opportunity to advance their textile-related projects and contribute to the ongoing evolution of the industry.

For those looking to support future research endeavors, the AATCC Foundation welcomes donations to further its mission of fostering innovation and excellence in textile research. By contributing to the foundation, individuals and organizations can play a vital role in shaping the future of the textile industry and driving impactful change on a global scale.

To learn more about the projects or to connect with the student or faculty advisor, please contact Diana Wyman (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.). For those interested in contributing to future research initiatives, donations to the AATCC Foundation can be made at www.aatcc.org/foundation. Let us join hands in advancing the frontiers of textile innovation and building a brighter future for the industry together.