Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Madeline Miller. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Madeline, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. What’s the backstory behind how you came up with the idea for your business?

I started this business after studying marine ecosystems and textile waste at the University of Miami’s Rosenstiel School. My research focused specifically on the contribution of the textile and apparel industry to landfilled waste and the resulting environmental impacts. I was interested in the ways that landfill gas affects nearby vegetation, but also interested in why so many textiles were being discarded and how the fashion industry might do better at diverting some of this waste from landfill. As I researched fashion manufacturing and materials, I learned about secondary uses for textile waste, started to understand how some of the waste is processed, and saw building insulation as a fit for repurposing some of the these textiles. I quickly learned that many manufactures throughout the region and several in my hometown Detroit had been looking for a solution for their textile waste and hoping to find a company like NexTiles. This business model is able to help solve the waste problem for manufacturers while providing a low-cost insulation solution.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

My name is Madeline Miller. I am a 27 year old small business owner and PhD student. I own a Detroit-based textile recycling company and study at the University of Michigan School for Environment and Sustainability. My company, NexTiles, works to help manufacturers divert waste from landfill. My academic journey is focused on using valuable waste materials to create building products like insulation and how these products may improve energy affordability for residents. I’m most proud of my business journey and the opportunities I’ve had to talk about textile waste and exchange knowledge in different rooms.

Can you tell us about a time you’ve had to pivot?

Well, I pivoted from engineering to study environmental science in undergrad. I’d say it was a good pivot that I’m proud of, but I was definitely anxious about the decision at the time.

How did you put together the initial capital you needed to start your business?

I am fortunate enough to have formed amazing relationships with people and organizations in my home state and have been awarded grant dollars and a lot of pro bono business consulting to start this business. I am extremely grateful for all of the funding and support I’ve received, but also find it so impressive that I find that here in Michigan.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.nextiles.org
• Instagram: nextilesdetroit
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/madeline-miller-5976a419b/

Image Credits
LMC Entertainment (Warehouse Photo and Shredded Material Photo) Justin Milhouse (Sample in Trees & Headshot)