MycoWorks

MycoWorks is a biotechnology company based in Emeryville, California that produces leather-like products using a process involving mycelium. The company was founded in 2013 by Philip Ross, Sophia Wang, and Eddie Pavlu.

History
Co-founder and chief technical officer Phil Ross's work with mycelium began before the formation of the company, which has assisted in the company's developments. In 2017, Matthew L. Scullin signed on as chief executive officer. In early 2020, the company raised Series A financing, and later that year, $45 million in Series B financing with Natalie Portman and John Legend participating.

Technology
Fine Mycelium is a patented technology by MycoWorks that engineers mycelium cells during their growth to form proprietary, interlocking cellular structures for unparalleled strength and durability. Fine Mycelium refers both to MycoWorks’ proprietary process and to a new category of materials used in the fashion, footwear, automotive, and decor industry.

Products
Reishi was the first commercially available product from MycoWorks, followed by Reishi Doux, Reishi Natural, and Reishi Pebble in 2023. The product has been used in a number of luxury retail items such as handbags and hats. Commercial-scale manufacturing began in September 2023 at a plant in Union, South Carolina.