Transforming the manufacturing process.

ZILA’s bioresin helps decrease the carbon footprint of everything from snowboards to wind turbine blades

The Opportunity

Epoxy resin is found in a broad range of products including fiberglass and carbon composites used in sporting and recreational equipment and wind turbines. The resin system provides the binder, helping to impact the cost, stability, heat and chemical resistance, and flammability. But traditional epoxy resins include chemicals produced from non-renewable fossil fuels. With the global demand for decarbonization, there is a huge opportunity for innovative and sustainable resins. 

The Challenge

ZILA has created a resin from hemp oil that is up to 85% bio-based, creating a dramatically improved carbon footprint. Crops of hemp can also be regenerative adding carbon to the soil, adding even more environmental benefit. Most importantly, ZILA had early indication that the resin met the standards of industry. But they needed to validate the resin in real-world products at scale. They partnered with Burton, a global leader in outdoor sports equipment, for a 100-snowboard pilot program.

NPC’s Solution

NPC provided ZILA with just over $183,000 to support the work in the 100-snowboard pilot. ZILA was able to gather key data and identify alternate partnerships and strategies to create efficiencies and quality control in their processes. And most importantly, ZILA was able to continue to build their relationship with Burton to help them decarbonize their products. In addition, NPC was able to introduce them to an investor who led their next capital raise, solidifying their future success.