Future Fungi
Welcomes You
Less room for plastic, more room for mushrooms
Future Fungi was founded with a clear mission: to combat the environmental crisis posed by plastic and Styrofoam waste by pioneering innovative, 100% biodegradable, plant-based, and eco-friendly materials.
Unlike traditional production processes that rely on harmful chemicals and petroleum, Future Fungi harnesses the power of naturally grown mycelium, a unique and sustainable resource. By addressing the toxicity of non-biodegradable waste, which threatens our most precious ecosystems, Future Fungi is at the forefront of a green revolution.
Our materials not only replace hazardous plastics but also protect and nurture the environment, paving the way for a more sustainable future.
Innovative Material
and Process
Future Fungi has developed a groundbreaking, patent-pending process that combines agricultural by-products with mushroom spores to create materials with exceptional properties.
These 100% biodegradable prototypes include mycelium-based cups/planting pots, packing peanuts, and boards/panels. Each material is engineered to be lightweight, buoyant, and remarkably strong, with superior shock absorption, heat resistance, and waterproof capabilities.
Once these products have fulfilled their purpose, they can be seamlessly integrated into compost or used as natural fertilizers, initiating a rapid biodegradation process that enriches the soil.
These prototypes are not merely conceptual—they are tangible proof that creating environment-friendly materials is not only feasible but can be achieved efficiently and cost-effectively.
Leadership
Nima Shahab Shahmir, the innovative mind behind Future Fungi, is an entrepreneur dedicated to reducing plastic usage in daily life through sustainable solutions.
With a Bachelor of Science in Information Systems and a minor in Business Administration from West Virginia University Institute of Technology and Master's from Maryland Institute College of Art, Nima’s interdisciplinary expertise has been instrumental in driving the success of Future Fungi.
Under his leadership, this West Virginia-based green business has gained recognition for its pioneering approach to growing marketable items from mycelium and agricultural waste.
Nima’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond his business, as he actively engages in academic and community initiatives, contributing to broader discussions on environmental innovation and sustainable practices.
Nima presenting Future Fungi, LLC to members of the Environmental Protection Agencies of the United States, Canada, and Mexico at the 2018 Commission for Environmental Cooperation National Conference, where Future Fungi, LLC was selected to represent the United States.
Awards & Press release
Awards:
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Patent-Pending Business
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Represented the United States during Commission for Environment Cooperation Youth Innovation Challenger national conference
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Panelist during West Virginia University (WVU) Foundation A State of Mind: The Campaign for WVU
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Panelist during the West Virginia Community and Development HUB Project
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Finalist during West Virginia University Show of Hands Business Pitch Competition
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Presented during 2018 15th Undergraduate Research Day at the Capitol Charleston, WV
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Finalist during Saint Louis University 2017 “Real Elevator” Business Pitch Competition
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Project accepted for National Science Foundation I-Corps short course program, STEM marketing
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Graduate from Robert C. Byrd Institute Ten50 Business Accelerator Program
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$10,000 Robert C. Byrd Institute Vanguard Agricultural Challenge Business Assistant Grant
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$500 pitch prize New River Gorge Development and Authority Common Grounds Competition
Press Releases:
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Article on Medium published by Commission for Environmental Cooperation February 2020
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Featured on The Neuron, West Virginia Science & Research magazine Spring 2017 Edition
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West Virginia Living, Morgantown Living, WVU Magazines December 2018 - 2019
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Register Herald Newspaper September and December 2018
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U.S. Environmental Protection Agency July 2018
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Mediaterre - French global information website for sustainable development June 2018
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WOAY TV, WVVA TV News Channels July, August 2019 and October 2018
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Mountain Messenger Newspaper August 2017 and June 2018
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Register Dispatch Newspaper September and February 2017
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Featured on The Neuron, West Virginia Science and Research Magazine Spring 2017 issue
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New River Gorge Regional Development Authority January 2017
Visit LinkedIn under "Accomplishments" for a complete list.