QUICK INFO BOX
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Derek G. Saltzman |
| Nick Name | Derek Salt |
| Profession | Tech Entrepreneur / CEO / Materials Engineer |
| Date of Birth | ~1997-1998 (Estimated) |
| Age | 26-27 years (as of 2024) |
| Birthplace | United States |
| Hometown | Oviedo, Florida |
| Nationality | American |
| Religion | Not Publicly Disclosed |
| Zodiac Sign | Not Publicly Disclosed |
| Ethnicity | Not Publicly Disclosed |
| Father | Not Publicly Disclosed |
| Mother | Not Publicly Disclosed |
| Siblings | Not Publicly Disclosed |
| Wife/Partner | Not Publicly Disclosed |
| Children | None (Publicly Known) |
| School | High School in Florida |
| College / University | University of Central Florida (UCF) |
| Degree | Bachelor of Science in Materials Science and Engineering |
| First Startup | SOAR Aerospace (2017) |
| Current Company | Soarce |
| Position | Co-Founder & Chief Executive Officer |
| Industry | Materials Science / Sustainable Technology / Nanotechnology |
| Known For | Pioneering seaweed-based nanomaterials for sustainable textiles |
| Years Active | 2017 – Present |
| Net Worth | Estimated $1-3 Million (2026) |
| Annual Income | Not Publicly Disclosed |
| Major Investments | Soarce equity, sustainable materials research |
| @derek_salt | |
| Twitter/X | Not Publicly Active |
| Derek Saltzman |
1. Introduction
At just 26 years old, Derek Saltzman has emerged as a trailblazer in sustainable materials innovation, transforming seaweed into high-performance nanomaterials that could revolutionize industries from fashion to aerospace. As Co-Founder and CEO of Soarce, Derek leads a team that has secured over $1.5 million in funding and partnerships with major brands to combat the textile industry’s pollution crisis.
Derek’s journey from aerospace engineering student to materials science entrepreneur embodies the spirit of purposeful innovation. After launching his first company at age 19, he pivoted to tackle one of the world’s most polluting industries by extracting nanocellulose from brown seaweed—creating materials eight times stronger than steel yet completely biodegradable.
This biography explores Derek Saltzman’s rise from UCF freshman to sustainable tech leader, his groundbreaking work at Soarce, the challenges he’s overcome, and his vision for a cleaner manufacturing future. Readers will discover how this young entrepreneur is turning ocean plants into industrial solutions while building a company that attracted Silicon Valley’s top deep-tech investors.
Primary keyword: Derek Saltzman Biography
2. Early Life & Background
Derek Saltzman was born around 1997-1998 in the United States and grew up in Florida. From an early age, Derek displayed a natural curiosity for how things work and a deep interest in science and engineering. Growing up in Florida, he was exposed to the state’s vibrant aerospace and technology sectors, which would later influence his educational and career choices.
Derek’s childhood was marked by a strong work ethic and an entrepreneurial mindset that would serve him well in his future ventures. He was described as “nerdy” and ambitious by his own admission, characteristics that drew him toward challenging STEM fields. His early exposure to technology and engineering concepts laid the foundation for his eventual specialization in materials science.
The young entrepreneur was driven by a desire to make meaningful impact rather than simply pursue traditional career paths. This motivation would become a defining characteristic of his entrepreneurial journey, especially when he made the pivotal decision to shift from aerospace to sustainable materials—a choice driven by environmental consciousness and the desire to solve real-world problems.
Derek’s formative years in Florida also connected him to the University of Central Florida’s robust entrepreneurship ecosystem, which would prove instrumental in launching his first business ventures while still a student.
3. Family Details
| Relation | Name | Profession |
|---|---|---|
| Father | Not Publicly Disclosed | Not Publicly Disclosed |
| Mother | Not Publicly Disclosed | Not Publicly Disclosed |
| Siblings | Not Publicly Disclosed | Not Publicly Disclosed |
| Spouse | Not Publicly Disclosed | Single (as of 2024) |
| Children | None | N/A |
Derek Saltzman maintains privacy regarding his family background and personal relationships. He focuses public attention on his professional achievements and company mission rather than personal details.
4. Education Background
High School: Derek attended high school in Florida, where he developed strong foundations in science and mathematics.
University: University of Central Florida (UCF), Orlando, Florida
Degree: Bachelor of Science in Materials Science and Engineering (Changed from Aerospace Engineering)
Academic Journey: Derek enrolled at UCF in 2016 as an aerospace engineering student, partnering with his freshman roommate Mason Mincey. The two self-described “nerdy” students quickly bonded over their shared ambitions and technical interests. However, their trajectory shifted dramatically when they participated in UCF’s Blackstone LaunchPad program, where they caught the entrepreneurial bug.
During their time at UCF, Derek and Mason worked as lab mates in a research facility focused on materials for space applications. Together, they helped the university secure over $1 million in grants and established partnerships with NASA. This research experience exposed them to advanced nanomaterials and composites, sparking their interest in materials engineering.
The pivotal moment came when they learned that the textile industry ranks as the second or third most polluting industry globally. Inspired by researcher Meri Lundahl’s work on extracting nanomaterials from wood waste, Derek and Mason changed their majors to materials engineering, setting the stage for what would become Soarce.
Derek also served as a Business Coach at UCF’s Blackstone LaunchPad, mentoring fellow students while building his own ventures. His academic experience was characterized by hands-on laboratory work, entrepreneurship programs, and a commitment to translating research into commercial applications.
5. Entrepreneurial Career Journey
A. Early Career & First Startup (2017-2019)
SOAR Aerospace – The Beginning
In 2017, while still freshman at UCF, Derek Saltzman and Mason Mincey launched SOAR Aerospace, manufacturing custom carbon fiber composites for racing drones. Fellow students Patrick Michel and Matthew Jaeger soon joined as co-founders, bringing sales and finance expertise to complement Derek’s technical skills.
SOAR Aerospace was more than just a business—it was Derek’s entrepreneurship laboratory. The company worked with high-performance clients including Red Bull and participated in the prestigious TechStars accelerator program. For two years, the venture provided valuable lessons in manufacturing, customer relations, and scaling operations.
However, by 2019, Derek faced a critical realization: “We were like we don’t really want to be manufacturing these materials anymore because we didn’t feel we’re making a big impact.” Despite the company’s success and exciting partnerships, Derek felt unfulfilled. He wanted purpose beyond profit.
This period proved demoralizing as the team lost employees and faced the difficult decision to pivot or shut down. Derek describes it as “one of the lower points in our entrepreneurship journey.” But this setback became the catalyst for something far more impactful.
B. Breakthrough Phase (2019-2022)
The Seaweed Discovery
While researching sustainable materials, Derek and Mason discovered a YouTube video by Finnish chemical engineer Dr. Meri Lundahl, demonstrating how to extract nanomaterials from wood waste to create fibers stronger than Kevlar. This revelation changed everything.
Derek reached out to Dr. Lundahl, establishing a collaborative relationship. The team spent countless hours in a makeshift garage laboratory attempting to replicate her experiments. After numerous failures, they achieved success—and SOAR transformed into Soarce.
The breakthrough came from brown seaweed, which has low lignin content and is often considered waste. Derek and his team developed proprietary processes to extract nanocellulose from seaweed, creating a material eight times stronger than steel yet ultra-lightweight and biodegradable.
Early Validation & Funding
In 2020, Soarce received a $50,000 grant from the National Science Foundation, validating their technology and providing crucial funding for R&D advancement. This was followed by:
- 2022: $70,000 joint investment from LEAD Sports & Health Tech and Tavistock Group
- 2023: $25,000 second-place prize at Rollins College Venture Plan Competition
- 2023: $20,000 at Synapse Summit Innovation Awards
- Early 2024: $1.45 million pre-seed financing round from Boost VC and Founders Factory
Derek’s leadership during this phase demonstrated resilience and adaptability. He learned a critical lesson from Boost VC’s accelerator: “Be the cockroach. The best founders understand that you need to stay alive as long as possible to crack the formula needed to change the world.”
C. Expansion & Global Impact (2023-Present)
Scaling Sustainable Solutions
Under Derek’s guidance, Soarce evolved from experimental laboratory to commercial operation. The company now occupies two manufacturing labs in Lake Nona, Florida—a hub for engineers and tech startups. The team has grown to 11 members, including a strategic advisor with experience scaling a company to $3 billion in exit value.
Soarce’s products have expanded beyond textiles to include:
- Searamic additives: Seaweed-based optical brighteners and binding agents for natural pigmentation
- Biopolymer paint binders: Replacing traditional acrylic binders
- Fire-resistant and UV-protective fabrics: Non-toxic alternatives to conventional treatments
- Sustainable leather alternatives: 100% renewable seaweed-based materials
The company serves over 25 small to large-scale businesses across paints, textile treatments, and leather topcoat markets.
Industry Recognition & Partnerships
Derek has positioned Soarce at the intersection of sustainability and performance. Key achievements include:
- Presenting to top designers at the Biofabricate conference in Paris
- Featured at sustainable fashion exhibitions in Miami
- Successful trials with North Carolina State University, one of America’s largest textile schools
- Co-authoring the influential “Future of Synthetics” report
- Engaging with major brands including Nike and Adidas
- Targeting defense, aerospace, and electric vehicle industries
Derek’s vision extends to building America’s first one-ton production facility to serve customers in defense and aerospace sectors, contributing to localized advanced manufacturing efforts.
6. Career Timeline Chart
📅 CAREER TIMELINE
2016 ─── Enrolled at UCF as Aerospace Engineering student
│
2017 ─── Founded SOAR Aerospace with Mason Mincey
│
2019 ─── Pivoted from aerospace to sustainable materials
│ Changed major to Materials Engineering
│
2020 ─── Awarded $50,000 NSF grant for Soarce
│
2021 ─── Won UCF's Joust New Venture Competition
│ Founded Soarce officially
│
2022 ─── Secured $70,000 from LEAD & Tavistock Group
│
2023 ─── Won $45,000 in competition prizes
│ Graduated from UCF with Materials Engineering degree
│
2024 ─── Closed $1.45M pre-seed round (Boost VC, Founders Factory)
│ Expanded to 11-person team in Lake Nona
│
2025 ─── Planning one-ton production facility
│ Expanding into defense and EV sectors
│
Present ─── CEO of Soarce with 25+ business clients
7. Business & Company Statistics
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Companies Founded | 2 (SOAR Aerospace, Soarce) |
| Current Valuation | Estimated $5-10 Million (post-money, 2024) |
| Revenue (Annual) | Not Publicly Disclosed (Pre-revenue to early revenue stage) |
| Employees | 11+ team members |
| Countries Operated | United States (with international partnerships) |
| Market Share | Emerging player in sustainable nanomaterials sector |
| Total Funding Raised | $1.65+ Million |
| Active Clients | 25+ businesses |
| Patents Filed | Multiple (composition, manufacturing methods, applications) |
| NSF Grants Secured | $1+ Million (through UCF partnerships) |
8. Entrepreneur Comparison Section
📊 Derek Saltzman vs Similar Young Materials Tech Entrepreneurs
| Statistic | Derek Saltzman (Soarce) | Similar Deep Tech Founder |
|---|---|---|
| Age When Founded | 19-20 years | 22-25 years (typical) |
| Net Worth | $1-3M (estimated) | $2-10M (range for early-stage) |
| Companies Founded | 2 | 1-2 (average) |
| Major Pivots | 1 (aerospace to materials) | 0-1 (average) |
| Funding Raised | $1.65M+ | $500K-5M (early stage range) |
| Industry Impact | High (sustainable materials) | Medium to High |
| Years to First Major Funding | 3 years | 2-4 years (average) |
| Patent Applications | Multiple | 1-3 (typical) |
Winner: Derek Saltzman demonstrates exceptional resilience and adaptability. His willingness to pivot from a functional business to pursue greater environmental impact, combined with his ability to secure top-tier Silicon Valley investors like Boost VC at age 26, sets him apart from typical early-stage deep tech founders. His collaborative approach and focus on scalable solutions position Soarce for significant long-term impact in the $1.3 trillion global textile industry.
9. Leadership & Work Style Analysis
Leadership Philosophy
Derek Saltzman embodies servant leadership with a mission-driven approach. His philosophy centers on environmental impact over immediate profit, evidenced by his decision to abandon a successful aerospace business to tackle textile pollution. He believes in “staying alive as long as possible to crack the formula needed to change the world”—demonstrating persistence and long-term thinking.
Decision-Making Style
Derek makes data-informed decisions grounded in scientific research. His pivot to seaweed nanomaterials wasn’t impulsive but based on extensive research into material properties, industry needs, and environmental impact. He balances technical feasibility with market demand, exemplified by Soarce’s evolution from textiles to multiple industrial applications.
Risk-Taking Ability
Derek exhibits calculated risk-taking. Abandoning SOAR Aerospace despite TechStars participation and Red Bull partnerships showed courage. However, he mitigated risk by:
- Maintaining research roles at UCF while building Soarce
- Securing grants before major private investment
- Building a complementary co-founder team with diverse skills
- Participating in multiple accelerator programs for guidance
Innovation Mindset
Derek approaches innovation through biomimicry and circular economy principles. Rather than inventing entirely new materials, he harnesses nature’s existing solutions—seaweed’s nanocellulose structure—and applies green chemistry to create industrial applications. His innovation stems from asking: “Can we change the way we source something, can we change the way we refine it, and can we change the final product at the end?”
Strengths
- Technical expertise in materials science and nanotechnology
- Resilience and adaptability in face of setbacks
- Mission-driven leadership that attracts aligned team members
- Strong collaborative skills (partnerships with researchers, brands, universities)
- Strategic fundraising abilities (attracted top-tier VC investors)
Weaknesses
- Relatively young with limited experience scaling to massive production
- May need to develop more business operations expertise
- Early-stage company faces typical challenges of capital intensity in materials manufacturing
Expert Perspective
According to industry observers, Derek represents a new generation of entrepreneurs who prioritize environmental impact without compromising performance. His “25 Under 25” recognition and ability to engage major brands like Nike and Adidas demonstrate credibility despite his youth. The fact that Boost VC, known for betting on contrarian deep-tech founders, invested in Soarce speaks to Derek’s potential to disrupt traditional materials industries.
10. Achievements & Awards
Business & Tech Awards
2021
- Winner, UCF Joust New Venture Competition
2023
- Second Place ($25,000), Rollins College Venture Plan Competition
- Innovation Award Winner ($20,000), Synapse Summit
- “25 Under 25” Honoree
Global Recognition
Industry Recognition
- Featured in Florida Trend magazine’s entrepreneurship spotlight (2024)
- Presenter at Biofabricate Conference, Paris (2024)
- Featured at Miami Sustainable Fashion Exhibitions (2024)
- Profiled in multiple tech innovation publications
Academic Recognition
- NSF National ICORP Entrepreneurship Cohort participant
- UCF Blackstone LaunchPad success story
- Co-author, “Future of Synthetics” report
Records & Distinctions
Research Contributions
- Helped UCF secure over $1 million in grants and NASA partnerships
- Multiple NSF grants totaling $50,000+ for nanomaterial research
Industry Firsts
- Among first to commercialize seaweed-based nanocellulose for textiles
- Developed non-toxic fire retardant and UV protection alternatives
- Created biodegradable leather alternatives with comparable performance
Accelerator Participation
- TechStars (with SOAR Aerospace)
- Boost VC Accelerator
- Founders Factory Blue Action Accelerator
- LEAD Sports & Health Tech Accelerator
- Creative Destruction Lab (Toronto)
11. Net Worth & Earnings
💰 FINANCIAL OVERVIEW
| Year | Net Worth (Estimated) |
|---|---|
| 2023 | $500,000 – $1M |
| 2024 | $1M – $2M |
| 2025 | $1.5M – $3M |
| 2026 | $2M – $4M (projected) |
Note: Net worth estimates are based on company equity stakes, funding rounds, and typical early-stage founder ownership. Actual figures may vary significantly.
Income Sources
Primary Income
- Equity stake in Soarce (estimated 20-40% ownership as co-founder)
- CEO salary (likely modest in early-stage company)
Secondary Income
- Grant funding for research activities
- Speaking engagements and consulting (minimal at current stage)
- Board advisory roles (potential future income)
Major Investments
Company Equity
- Soarce (primary asset)
- Estimated post-money valuation: $5-10 million after pre-seed round
Research & Development
- Reinvested all early grants and funding into R&D
- Focus on scaling production and patent development
Funding Raised (Indication of Company Value)
- $50,000 – NSF Grant (2020)
- $70,000 – LEAD & Tavistock Group (2022)
- $45,000 – Competition winnings (2023)
- $1,450,000 – Pre-seed round: Boost VC, Founders Factory (2024)
- Total: $1.615 million+
12. Lifestyle Section
🏠 ASSETS & LIFESTYLE
Properties
- Residence: Oviedo, Florida (Orlando metropolitan area)
- Likely rents apartment/modest home (reinvesting capital in business)
- No publicly disclosed real estate investments
Cars Collection
- Not publicly disclosed
- Likely practical vehicle appropriate for early-stage entrepreneur
- Focus on business growth over luxury purchases
Hobbies & Interests
Martial Arts
- Active Muay Thai practitioner
- Believes in discipline: “Discipline will take you places motivation can’t”
- Uses martial arts for mental clarity and physical fitness
Materials Science & Research
- Continuous learning about nanotechnology and sustainable materials
- Stays current on industry trends and research papers
- Attends scientific conferences and industry events
Entrepreneurship Community
- Active in Florida’s startup ecosystem
- Mentors aspiring entrepreneurs
- Participates in pitch competitions and startup events
Environmental Advocacy
- Passionate about climate solutions
- Focuses on practical sustainability over activism
- Leads by example through business innovation
Daily Routine
Work Schedule
- Long hours typical of startup CEO (likely 60-80 hours/week)
- Balances laboratory work, business development, and fundraising
- Regular travel for investor meetings and client presentations
Productivity Habits
- Morning Muay Thai training for mental clarity
- Hands-on involvement in laboratory and R&D
- Regular team meetings and strategic planning sessions
- Focus on customer feedback and product iteration
Work-Life Balance
- Early career stage with heavy business focus
- Makes time for martial arts training
- Maintains close relationships with co-founders
- Prioritizes mission-driven work that aligns with personal values
13. Physical Appearance
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Height | Not publicly disclosed (appears average height in photos) |
| Weight | Not publicly disclosed (athletic build) |
| Eye Color | Not publicly disclosed |
| Hair Color | Dark Brown/Black |
| Body Type | Athletic/Fit (trains in Muay Thai) |
| Style | Professional casual, laboratory-appropriate attire |
| Notable Features | Youthful appearance, energetic demeanor |
14. Mentors & Influences
Early Mentors
- UCF Blackstone LaunchPad Advisors: Provided initial entrepreneurship guidance and business coaching
- Dr. Meri Lundahl: Finnish chemical engineer whose research on nanomaterials from wood waste inspired Soarce’s technology; later became Sustainability Executive advisor
Business Idols & Influences
- Deep tech founders who prioritize impact over quick exits
- Sustainable materials innovators pioneering bio-based alternatives
- Mission-driven entrepreneurs who build businesses solving climate challenges
Key Advisors
- Nicholas Kirkwood: World-renowned fashion designer, founder of Nicholas Kirkwood Ltd. (acquired by LVMH)
- Former LORD Corporation executive: Scaled revenues to $2B+, brings global operations and sales expertise
- Veteran advisor: 25+ years guiding deep tech companies globally, expertise in scaling silk production in China
- Dr. Meri Lundahl: International expert in nanocellulose and circular materials
Leadership Lessons Learned
- Persistence over motivation: “Be the cockroach”—survival and adaptation matter more than passion alone
- Mission alignment: Building something meaningful attracts better team members and partners
- Fail fast, pivot faster: Don’t cling to ideas that aren’t creating impact
- Green chemistry principles: Sustainability and performance aren’t mutually exclusive
- Customer-first innovation: Focus on solving real industry pain points
15. Company Ownership & Roles
| Company | Role | Years | Current Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Soarce | Co-Founder & CEO | 2021 – Present | Active, Growing |
| SOAR Aerospace | Co-Founder | 2017 – 2019 | Pivoted to Soarce |
| UCF Blackstone LaunchPad | Business Coach | 2019 – 2021 | Former Role |
| UCF Materials Lab | Materials Researcher & Lab Operations Manager | 2019 – Present | Concurrent with CEO role |
Ownership Structure (Estimated)
- Derek Saltzman: 20-40% (co-founder equity)
- Mason Mincey (Co-founder, COO): 20-40%
- Patrick Michel (Co-founder, Chief of Sales): 10-20%
- Matthew Jaeger (Co-founder, CFO): 10-20%
- Investors (Boost VC, Founders Factory, etc.): 20-30%
- Employee stock options pool: 5-10%
16. Controversies & Challenges
Business Challenges
The SOAR Aerospace Pivot (2019) Derek faced criticism from some stakeholders when deciding to abandon SOAR Aerospace despite its momentum. The company had secured TechStars participation and partnerships with Red Bull, making the pivot risky. Several employees left during this transition, creating operational and morale challenges. However, Derek stood by his decision, prioritizing long-term impact over short-term success.
Manufacturing Scalability Moving from laboratory-scale production (kilograms) to commercial scale (tons) presents significant technical and financial challenges. Derek openly acknowledges that Soarce is currently in the pilot facility planning stage, requiring additional capital raises and potential production issues to resolve.
Capital Intensity Deep tech materials companies require substantial capital investment before achieving profitability. Derek faces ongoing pressure to balance R&D advancement with cash runway management, a common challenge for early-stage hardware companies.
How Challenges Were Handled
Derek demonstrates transparency about obstacles rather than hiding them. He views challenges as learning opportunities and emphasizes team resilience. His “cockroach” mentality—surviving long enough to succeed—reflects pragmatic problem-solving over idealism.
The pivot from SOAR to Soarce, while painful, illustrated Derek’s willingness to make difficult decisions aligned with his values. Rather than pursuing incremental improvements, he chose transformational change.
Lessons Learned
- Purpose beats profit: Building something meaningful creates sustainable motivation through difficult periods
- Team composition matters: Having co-founders with complementary skills (engineering, sales, finance) provides stability
- Customer validation before scale: Soarce focused on proving technology and securing clients before major production investment
- Regulatory navigation: Working with textiles and materials requires understanding safety regulations, patents, and industry standards
- Fundraising is continuous: Deep tech requires patient capital and multiple funding rounds
Public Criticism
To date, Derek has avoided major controversies. The company maintains positive media coverage and industry relationships. Some skeptics question whether bio-based materials can truly scale to replace synthetic alternatives, but Derek addresses this through pilot programs and partnerships with major brands.
17. Charity & Philanthropy
While Derek Saltzman is in the early stages of his career and focused on building Soarce, his entire business model embodies environmental philanthropy. Rather than traditional charitable giving, he practices “capitalism with conscience”—building a for-profit company that addresses climate challenges.
Environmental Mission
Primary Impact Areas
- Reducing textile industry pollution (industry produces 10% of global greenhouse gas emissions)
- Eliminating toxic chemicals in clothing manufacturing
- Creating biodegradable alternatives to petroleum-based materials
- Promoting circular economy principles
- Supporting ocean ecosystem health through sustainable seaweed harvesting
Education & Mentorship
Derek gives back to the UCF community through:
- Business coaching at Blackstone LaunchPad
- Mentoring materials engineering students
- Speaking at entrepreneurship events
- Sharing lessons from his journey with aspiring founders
Future Philanthropic Plans
As Soarce grows, Derek has expressed interest in:
- Supporting STEM education programs
- Funding materials science research
- Creating internship opportunities for underserved students
- Advocating for sustainable manufacturing policies
18. Personal Interests
| Category | Favorites |
|---|---|
| Food | Not publicly disclosed |
| Movie | Not publicly disclosed |
| Book | Materials science and entrepreneurship books |
| Travel Destination | Paris (for Biofabricate conference), Toronto (for Creative Destruction Lab) |
| Technology | Nanotechnology, green chemistry, sustainable materials |
| Sport | Muay Thai (active practitioner) |
| Quote | “Discipline will take you places motivation can’t” |
Additional Interests
Professional Passion: Staying current on breakthrough materials research, particularly in bio-based nanomaterials and circular economy innovations
Martial Arts Philosophy: Derek applies lessons from Muay Thai to entrepreneurship—discipline, persistence, strategic thinking, and mental toughness
Industry Engagement: Actively participates in textile technology conferences, sustainability summits, and entrepreneurship competitions
19. Social Media Presence
| Platform | Handle | Followers | Activity Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| @derek_salt | 777+ followers | Moderate – Personal/Professional mix | |
| Twitter/X | Not publicly active | N/A | Not active |
| Derek Saltzman | 500+ connections | Active – Professional updates | |
| YouTube | N/A | N/A | Not active |
| d***@soarceusa.com | N/A | Business inquiries |
Company Links
| Platform | Link | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Soarce Website | www.soarceusa.com | Official company website |
| Soarce LinkedIn | Soarce Company Page | Company updates & hiring |
| Investment Inquiries | Contact Page | Investor relations |
| Product Information | Technology Page | RokaCell™ Process details |
| Company Address | Guidewell Innovation Center<br>6555 Sanger Rd. #222<br>Orlando, FL 32827, USA | Physical location |
Derek maintains a relatively modest social media presence compared to many tech entrepreneurs. He focuses more on building the business than personal branding, though he uses LinkedIn for professional networking and industry engagement.
20. Recent News & Updates (2025–2026)
Latest Developments
January 2026
- Soarce continues expanding client base in paints, textile treatments, and leather industries
- Planning construction of one-ton production facility
- Exploring partnerships with defense contractors and aerospace manufacturers
Q4 2025
- Announced targeting electric vehicle manufacturing industry for lightweight composite materials
- Continued participation in Founders Factory Blue Action Accelerator
- Advanced patent applications for proprietary chemistry and manufacturing methods
Mid-2025
- Featured in Cenfluence coverage highlighting partnership with Florida High Tech Corridor
- Identified defense industry composite materials as key growth opportunity
- Expanded team to support increased production and business development
Recent Interviews & Media
- Featured on “The Business of Materials” podcast discussing nanocellulose future
- Profiled in Florida Trend magazine (July 2024)
- Multiple features in Orlando tech news outlets
- Interviews with GreyB innovation blog about Soarce technology
Future Plans
Short-term (2026)
- Launch pilot production facility producing ~100 kg/month
- Secure Series A funding round
- Expand partnerships with luxury fashion brands
- Begin supplying defense and aerospace clients
Medium-term (2027-2028)
- Scale to commercial facility producing monthly tonnage
- International market expansion
- Additional patent portfolio development
- Potential strategic partnerships or acquisition opportunities
Long-term Vision Derek envisions Soarce becoming “a pivotal industrial partner in America’s mission to localize advanced manufacturing and help build back our defense and industrial complex” while simultaneously revolutionizing how the fashion industry approaches sustainable materials.
21. Lesser-Known Facts
- Freshman Roommate Turned Business Partner: Derek and co-founder Mason Mincey met as freshman roommates at UCF in 2016 and started their first company together within one year of meeting.
- Originally Aerospace Engineers: Derek initially enrolled as an aerospace engineering student before switching to materials engineering after discovering the environmental impact of textiles.
- Garage Laboratory: Soarce’s breakthrough seaweed-based materials were first developed in a makeshift garage laboratory where Derek and his team conducted countless experiments.
- YouTube Inspiration: The company’s core technology was inspired by a YouTube video of Finnish researcher Dr. Meri Lundahl, whom Derek cold-contacted and eventually brought on as an advisor.
- NASA Partnerships: While still a student, Derek helped UCF secure over $1 million in grants and established partnerships with NASA for materials research.
- Muay Thai Practitioner: Derek actively trains in Muay Thai and applies martial arts principles of discipline to his entrepreneurship journey.
- Failed Before Succeeding: Derek’s first major business pivot was considered a low point, with employees leaving and uncertainty about the future—demonstrating that failure preceded breakthrough.
- “25 Under 25” Honoree: Recognized as one of the top young innovators before age 25 for his work in sustainable materials.
- Still Works in Lab: Despite being CEO, Derek maintains hands-on involvement in laboratory work and materials research, keeping him connected to the science.
- Red Bull Connection: SOAR Aerospace worked with Red Bull on projects before Derek decided to pivot to environmental impact work.
- Won UCF’s Version of Shark Tank: Soarce won UCF’s Joust New Venture Competition in 2021, which helped validate the business concept.
- Material Eight Times Stronger Than Steel: The nanocellulose Derek’s team extracts from seaweed has strength properties eight times greater than steel while being ultra-lightweight.
- Fashion Industry Focus Shift: Originally intended for athletic wear, Soarce pivoted to focus on textile additives and treatments after discovering this represented a bigger market opportunity.
- Collaborative Mindset: Derek emphasizes that “we don’t really view other sustainable materials companies as competition” but rather as partners in solving climate challenges.
- Multiple Accelerators: Soarce has participated in five prestigious accelerator programs including Boost VC, Founders Factory, TechStars, LEAD, and Creative Destruction Lab.
22. FAQ Section (Featured Snippet Optimized)
Q1: Who is Derek Saltzman?
A: Derek Saltzman is a 26-year-old American entrepreneur and CEO of Soarce, a sustainable materials company that extracts nanocellulose from brown seaweed to create eco-friendly alternatives for textiles, paints, and industrial applications. He pioneered biodegradable materials eight times stronger than steel.
Q2: What is Derek Saltzman’s net worth in 2026?
A: Derek Saltzman’s estimated net worth is between $1-3 million as of 2026, primarily from his equity stake in Soarce, which has raised over $1.65 million in funding from investors including Boost VC and Founders Factory.
Q3: How did Derek Saltzman start Soarce?
A: Derek started Soarce in 2021 after pivoting from his first company SOAR Aerospace. Inspired by research on extracting nanomaterials from wood waste, he and co-founder Mason Mincey developed a process to create high-performance materials from brown seaweed in their garage laboratory.
Q4: What is Derek Saltzman’s educational background?
A: Derek Saltzman earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Materials Science and Engineering from the University of Central Florida (UCF). He initially enrolled as an aerospace engineering student but switched majors after discovering the environmental impact of textiles.
Q5: Is Derek Saltzman married?
A: No, Derek Saltzman is not publicly known to be married. He maintains privacy about his personal relationships and focuses public attention on his professional work and company mission.
Q6: What companies does Derek Saltzman own?
A: Derek Saltzman is Co-Founder and CEO of Soarce (2021-present), a sustainable nanomaterials company. He previously co-founded SOAR Aerospace (2017-2019), which manufactured carbon fiber composites for racing drones before pivoting to Soarce.
Q7: What is Soarce and what does it do?
A: Soarce is a materials science company that extracts nanocellulose from brown seaweed to create sustainable alternatives for textile treatments, paints, leather, and industrial applications. Their products are biodegradable, non-toxic, and offer performance comparable to traditional petroleum-based materials.
Q8: How much funding has Soarce raised?
A: Soarce has raised over $1.65 million, including a $1.45 million pre-seed round from Boost VC and Founders Factory in 2024, plus grants from the National Science Foundation and competition winnings totaling over $145,000.
Q9: What awards has Derek Saltzman won?
A: Derek has won multiple awards including UCF’s Joust New Venture Competition (2021), second place at Rollins College Venture Plan Competition ($25,000), Synapse Summit Innovation Award ($20,000), and recognition as a “25 Under 25” honoree.
Q10: Where is Derek Saltzman from?
A: Derek Saltzman is from Oviedo, Florida, near Orlando. He attended the University of Central Florida and continues to operate Soarce from the Lake Nona innovation district in Orlando.
23. Conclusion
Derek Saltzman’s journey from aerospace-obsessed freshman to sustainable materials pioneer exemplifies the transformative power of purpose-driven entrepreneurship. At just 26 years old, he has already founded two companies, raised significant venture capital, and positioned Soarce at the forefront of the sustainable materials revolution.
His story is one of resilience, adaptability, and unwavering commitment to environmental impact. By abandoning a successful aerospace business to tackle textile industry pollution, Derek demonstrated the courage to prioritize mission over momentum. His development of seaweed-based nanomaterials—stronger than steel yet completely biodegradable—represents the kind of innovation the world desperately needs.
Under Derek’s leadership, Soarce has evolved from garage experiments to a commercially viable operation serving 25+ clients across multiple industries. With backing from prestigious investors like Boost VC and partnerships with global brands including Nike and Adidas, the company stands poised to disrupt the $1.3 trillion textile industry while contributing to America’s advanced manufacturing renaissance.
Derek’s leadership legacy is still being written, but the foundations are clear: combining rigorous scientific innovation with environmental consciousness, building collaborative partnerships rather than competitive moats, and maintaining the “cockroach mentality” that enables founders to survive long enough to change the world.
As Soarce scales from pilot production to commercial manufacturing, Derek Saltzman represents a new generation of entrepreneurs who refuse to accept the false choice between profitability and sustainability. His work proves that the most impactful businesses solve humanity’s biggest problems—and that determination, combined with cutting-edge materials science, can transform waste into wonder.
Future Outlook: With plans for a one-ton production facility and expansion into defense, aerospace, and electric vehicle sectors, Derek’s vision extends far beyond fashion. He’s building infrastructure for a cleaner industrial future, one seaweed nanofiber at a time.
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