Startup of the Week: Earthbound™ (formerly Miret d.o.o.)

In this edition, we present Earthbound™, a pioneering Croatian footwear brand that’s changing the game with its eco-friendly sneakers. Founded in 2018, Earthbound™ is on a mission to transform the footwear industry by offering sneakers made from 97% natural materials, including hemp, cork, and wool. Their sneakers are crafted with sustainability in mind, without sacrificing on comfort or style. Earthbound™ is not just about making shoes; it’s about creating a product that reflects a commitment to the planet and a new way of doing business.

About Earthbound™

Earthbound™ is redefining what it means to be a sustainable sneaker brand. With a dedication to using 97% natural materials—including hemp, cork, wool, and natural rubber—the brand provides eco-conscious consumers with a sneaker that’s durable, stylish, and comfortable. Earthbound™ is the world’s first footwear brand to receive the OEKO-TEX® STANDARD 100 certification and proudly holds the title of Croatia’s first certified B Corporation, earning an impressive B Impact Score of 89.3. Their commitment to sustainability doesn’t stop at the products; it extends to the entire business model, from sourcing to production.

The Founders’ Journey

Brothers Hrvoje and Domagoj Boljar grew up in a footwear family, surrounded by shoes and materials. After realizing the environmental impact of traditional footwear, they decided to create Earthbound™ to offer a sustainable alternative without compromising on style or performance .

Challenges in Entrepreneurship

Balancing their mission with business realities has been challenging. Communicating the long-term value of sustainability in a market focused on quick returns requires resilience and adaptability .

Funding Hurdles

Securing funding has been tough, as investors often favor tech startups with rapid scaling potential. Earthbound™ has had to work harder to prove that a product-based, impact-first brand can be scalable and profitable .

Rewards of the Journey

The most rewarding aspect has been seeing their values reflected in customer feedback. Knowing their sneakers are changing perceptions and contributing to a more sustainable future keeps the team motivated .

Learn more about Earthbound™ and their mission by visiting their website: earthbound-sneakers.com