by Addis Ababa, Ethiopia & Dubai, UAE – Sep 17, 2025
Meltex Textile Apparel Manufacturing and FasterCapital today announce a strategic partnership through the EquityPilot program to accelerate Meltex’s expansion of protective wear production. Effective immediately, the collaboration targets Ethiopia and regional markets to address rising demand for affordable, quality industrial and institutional uniforms using capital, tech and market-access support.
Market opportunity & problem statement
Ethiopia’s apparel market is expanding amid industrialization, service-sector growth and rising institutional demand for uniforms and safety wear. Despite 7.5 garments purchased per person annually and large unmet demand, local production is fragmented, supply chains are inefficient and access to modern machinery and finance is limited. Meltex targets a white space in protective wear—coveralls, jackets, trousers, aprons and uniforms—where cost, quality and customization are persistent pain points. This partnership aims to convert import-reliant demand into locally manufactured, higher-value supply.
Startup solution & differentiation
Meltex combines vertical integration, focused specialization in protective wear, and a quality-engineering approach to deliver durable, comfortable and affordable garments tailored to industry needs. By partnering with input suppliers, hiring skilled technicians and deploying modern sewing and finishing equipment, Meltex reduces unit costs, shortens lead times and offers customization at scale. Early traction includes 2023 revenues equivalent to USD 152,439 and projected first-year revenue of USD 310,000 at 70% capacity in 2024 estimates. Meltex’s defensible position stems from specialized product lines, local production agility versus imports, and an explicit social impact mission to improve workplace safety through accessible protective apparel.
FasterCapital partnership value
Through the EquityPilot program, FasterCapital provides Meltex with strategic mentoring, access to global investor networks, product-technology advisory, and support for capital raising and go-to-market execution. FasterCapital’s selective criteria ensure Meltex was chosen for strong unit economics, measurable impact potential and scalable operations. Expected outcomes include accelerated machinery procurement, deployment of ERP and quality-control systems, introduction to regional buyers, and an investor-ready growth plan within 6–12 months. FasterCapital’s track record and resources will materially shorten Meltex’s path to market leadership. Visit https://www.fastercapital.com for program details.
Executive quotes
“Hesham Zreik: “FasterCapital invests where strong local teams meet clear market demand. Meltex is a textbook example—specialized products, measurable social impact, and a plan to scale. EquityPilot will help convert operational readiness into commercial traction and investor interest,” said Hesham Zreik, Investment Lead.
Melaku Tegegn, Promoter & CEO of Meltex: “This partnership enables us to modernize our production, expand capacity and deliver quality protective wear to Ethiopian industries and institutions. FasterCapital’s guidance and network will accelerate job creation and improve workplace safety at scale.”
Growth trajectory & future plans
Near-term priorities include completing targeted machinery upgrades, implementing ERP and quality systems, and securing anchor contracts with manufacturing and service-sector buyers across Addis Ababa and regional hubs. Meltex plans phased capacity expansion, targeting a 5% yearly revenue growth and exploring export opportunities to neighboring markets within 18–24 months. Capital requirements will be addressed through combined grant support, EquityPilot facilitation and follow-on equity or debt rounds. Long-term vision: become Ethiopia’s leading supplier of protective apparel and a regional hub for sustainable, ethical garment manufacturing.
About Meltex Textile Apparel Manufacturing
Meltex is an Addis Ababa-based manufacturer specializing in protective wear and work uniforms. Founded and promoted by Eng. Melaku Tegegn, Meltex combines craftsmanship, vertical integration and community-focused production to supply durable, affordable garments to industry, health and education sectors while creating local jobs and improving workplace safety.
About FasterCapital
FasterCapital is a global venture builder and online incubator dedicated to co-funding and co-founding innovative startups. Established in 2014, we are now #1 venture builder in terms of number of startups that we have helped, money invested and money raised. It supports startups worldwide through various programs, including funding assistance, business development, and technical support. The EquityPilot program is designed to help early-stage startups build scalable solutions with mentorship, strategic guidance, and network support.
Media Contact:
Rasha Almasri
rasha.almasri@fastercapital.com
+1 (512) 400-0256
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Great teamwork!