Uncaged Innovations and The Collective have partnered to launch Elevate, the world's first grain-based leather alternative.

Elevate is produced by fusing plant collagen with other bio-based elements, with 95 per cent fewer greenhouse gas emissions, 89 per cent less water and 71 per cent less energy, without sacrificing performance or luxury.

In November 2024, Uncaged became the first next-gen sustainable leather company to launch globally with 10 boutique brands, marking the largest next-gen leather debut to date.

The companies in 'The Collective' include vegan brands, as well as established fashion houses that have previously only used animal leather.

Elevate is made from grain by-products, including corn, wheat and soya, as well as natural rubbers and natural pigments, derived from a wide array of sources, including coffee bean shells and rock minerals.

"To further customise our material, we also use the scent extracts from flowers, enabling brands to create their signature scent," said Uncaged.

This project has been longlisted in the material innovation category of Dezeen Awards 2025.

Studio: Uncaged Innovations and The Collective
Project: Elevate