On December 8, UNCAGED Innovations, a biomaterials company developing sustainable grain-based leather alternatives, announced that Academy Award–winning actor and prominent animal welfare advocate Natalie Portman has joined the company as a strategic partner. The collaboration represents a symbolic step forward in accelerating the fashion industry’s shift away from animal-derived materials.
A New Generation of Luxury Materials, Born from Grains
UNCAGED Innovations was founded by serial entrepreneur Stephanie Downs and biomaterials scientist Dr. Xiaokun Wang. The company’s proprietary material, made from grains, replicates the texture and durability of traditional leather while achieving significant reductions in environmental impact:
- 95% lower greenhouse gas emissions
- 89% less water usage
- 71% less energy consumption
In response to the leather industry’s long-standing issues—greenhouse gas emissions, deforestation, and chemical pollution—UNCAGED offers a regenerative, rather than destructive, approach to material innovation.
Two Vegans with a Shared Mission Shape the Future
Portman shared her thoughts on joining UNCAGED: “UNCAGED is one of the most exciting businesses in the biomaterials space that I have seen. The significant market traction they have gained at such an early stage is proof of the demand for materials that are animal-free, luxurious and sustainable.”
“Stephanie and the team at UNCAGED are redefining the leather industry for the better. As a vegan, I’ve spent years advocating for animals, and teaming up with UNCAGED allows me to amplify that mission. Together, we’re using what we each do best to inspire real change.”
Downs also commented on the impact of Portman’s involvement:
“We’re incredibly excited to have Natalie on board as a strategic partner as her voice and credibility bring powerful momentum to our mission. Consumers and businesses alike are demanding sustainable alternatives and together, this collaboration aims to meet that challenge.”
“The biomaterials industry holds the key to a future where materials are regenerative and not destructive. But we are in a race against time to save our planet and evolve the leather industry. By combining biotechnology with design thinking, we’re accelerating sustainable change without compromising aesthetics or performance.”
The partnership sends a clear message to both industry and consumers: luxury must evolve beyond animal-derived materials. Both Portman and Downs—longtime vegans—have devoted their careers to advancing compassion for animals and care for the planet.
Moving forward, the collaboration will focus on increasing awareness and encouraging action across both consumer and brand communities, highlighting the positive impact of choosing high-quality, animal-free alternatives.
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