GoSun
About this raise: GoSun, with a valuation of $40.8 million, is raising funds on StartEngine. The company uses solar technologies to create efficient products for cooking, cooling, lighting, and charging electronics using solar energy. GoSun products support independence and non-reliance on non-renewable sources of energy, which helps to create a healthier and more sustainable environment. The business has sold over 155,000 products across 80 countries and reported $23 million in sales in 2023. Patrick Sherwin founded GoSun in December 2016. The current crowdfunding campaign has a minimum target of $15,000 and a maximum target of $4.99 million. The campaign proceeds will be used for research and development, inventory, marketing, and working capital.
Investment Overview
Invested $292,944 :
Deal Terms
Company & Team
Company
- Year Founded
- 2016
- Industry
- Energy, Power, & Natural Resources
- Tech Sector
- Distribution Model
- B2B/B2C
- Margin
- Low
- Capital Intensity
- High
Financials
- Revenue -50.8% YoY
- $2,818,617
- Monthly Burn
- $113,699
-
Runway
- 4.4 months
- Gross Margin
- 36%
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Synopsis
GoSun, founded in December 2016, is a company specializing in solar technologies to create efficient products for cooking, cooling, lighting, and charging electronics using solar energy. The company, operating under the name GoSun, aims to support independence and reduce reliance on non-renewable energy sources, thereby contributing to a healthier and more sustainable environment. GoSun has successfully sold over 155,000 products in 80 countries, generating $23 million in sales in 2023. The primary customers of GoSun include environmentally conscious consumers, outdoor enthusiasts, and individuals in remote areas who require reliable and portable energy solutions.
GoSun addresses the problem of dependency on non-renewable energy sources and the lack of accessible, portable energy solutions for everyday needs. Traditional energy sources, such as fossil fuels, are not only limited but also contribute to environmental degradation. Many consumers face challenges when it comes to accessing sustainable energy solutions, especially in off-grid or remote locations where conventional energy infrastructure is unavailable.
GoSun's solution lies in its range of solar-powered products designed to meet essential needs without emissions. These products include solar ovens for cooking, solar coolers for preserving food, solar lights, and solar chargers for electronic devices. By harnessing solar energy, GoSun provides a practical and eco-friendly alternative to traditional energy sources, enabling users to perform everyday tasks such as cooking, cooling, and charging devices without relying on the grid.
In everyday scenarios, GoSun's products are highly relevant. For instance, outdoor enthusiasts often face the challenge of cooking meals while camping without access to conventional stoves or fuel. GoSun's solar ovens offer a portable and efficient solution, allowing users to cook meals using only sunlight. Similarly, individuals living in remote areas or experiencing power outages can benefit from GoSun's solar coolers and chargers, ensuring they have access to refrigerated food and charged electronics even when traditional power sources are unavailable. These practical applications highlight the tangible benefits of GoSun's products in enhancing convenience and sustainability in everyday life.
Price
GoSun is offering Common Equity in its current funding round. The pre-money valuation for the company is set at $40.8 million, with a price per share of $3.00. This valuation represents a down round from the previous valuation of $59 million, reflecting a significant adjustment in the company's perceived market value.
Investing in common equity provides shareholders with voting rights, allowing them to have a say in company decisions. However, common equity holders are generally subordinate to preferred equity holders in terms of claims on assets and earnings. This means that in the event of liquidation, preferred equity holders are paid before common equity holders.
For GoSun to deliver a 10X return to its investors, the company's valuation would need to reach approximately $408 million. Achieving this level of return would likely require significant milestones, such as expanding its market presence, increasing sales, and successfully scaling its operations. Given that GoSun reported $2.8 million in sales in 2023, substantial growth in revenue and market penetration would be necessary to reach this valuation.
Currently, GoSun's revenue multiple stands at 14.48x, indicating that the company's valuation is significantly higher than its annual revenue. To justify this multiple, GoSun would need to demonstrate strong and consistent revenue growth, potentially through the successful launch and adoption of new products, as well as expanding its customer base.
Startups in the renewable energy and consumer electronics sectors have shown the potential for substantial exits, particularly as global demand for sustainable solutions continues to rise. For GoSun, achieving a 10X return would involve capturing a larger share of the global portable solar panel market, which is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 17.58%. Additionally, strategic partnerships, increased brand recognition, and advancements in solar technology could further enhance the company's value proposition and drive its valuation upward.
Market
The global portable solar panel market is the primary addressable market for GoSun. Key drivers for this market include increasing concerns about the depletion of fossil fuels, rising government support for renewable energy development, and growing awareness of the environmental benefits of solar energy. This market is expected to grow significantly, with a projected compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 17.58%, reaching a market size of approximately $370.6 million.
Several trends are positively impacting the market. Consumers increasingly demand sustainable energy solutions, pushing the adoption of solar-powered devices. Government initiatives and incentives for renewable energy further support market growth, making solar solutions more accessible and affordable. The rise in portable electronics and the need for off-grid power solutions, such as for camping and emergency situations, also drive demand for portable solar panels.
However, certain trends could negatively impact GoSun's growth. The high initial cost of solar products can be a barrier for some consumers, limiting market penetration. Additionally, the complex waste management and disposal regulations for solar panels could increase operational costs and pose environmental challenges.
GoSun's products primarily target environmentally conscious consumers and outdoor enthusiasts, a niche market segment within the broader portable solar panel market. While the company’s products appeal to a specific audience, the versatility and practicality of solar-powered solutions also make them relevant for a broader range of applications, including emergency preparedness and remote living. This could potentially expand GoSun's market reach beyond its current niche to more mainstream consumers.
The broader market trends, such as the increasing adoption of renewable energy and portable electronics, align well with GoSun’s product offerings. As the market for portable solar panels continues to grow, GoSun has the potential to benefit from these trends by leveraging its established product lines and expanding its customer base. However, the company will need to address the challenges of high product costs and regulatory compliance to fully capitalize on this market opportunity.
Team
GoSun's leadership team comprises experienced professionals with diverse backgrounds in solar technology, business development, and production management. This combination of expertise is crucial for driving the company's growth and achieving its objectives.
Patrick Sherwin, the founder and CEO, has over two decades of experience in the solar industry. He is a seasoned inventor and designer of solar products, holding several patents. Sherwin's entrepreneurial spirit and extensive knowledge in solar engineering are pivotal for GoSun's product innovation and market expansion. His hands-on experience living off-grid with solar power further underscores his commitment to sustainable energy solutions.
Gary Starr, responsible for business development, brings significant expertise in market entry, business growth, and international sales. Starr has sold over $100 million worth of environmental products and has been the CEO of two companies that went public. His experience in branding, financing, and management is invaluable for GoSun as it seeks to expand its market presence and increase sales.
Emily Zaebst, a director at GoSun, has been with the company since its early days. She has a keen ability to anticipate business needs and ensure the company stays on the right path. Zaebst's role in team management and her supportive approach contribute to maintaining a cohesive and motivated workforce.
Weifeng Zheng, the Director of Production, oversees GoSun's assembly and quality control operations in Asia. Zheng's experience in procurement, engineering, and production is critical for maintaining product quality and managing the supply chain efficiently. His ability to execute tasks swiftly and effectively is a significant asset for the company's operational success.
The skills and experience of GoSun's team members align well with the company's goals of innovating solar-powered products and expanding its market reach. Sherwin's expertise in solar technology drives product development, while Starr's business acumen supports market growth and sales. Zaebst's management skills ensure team cohesion, and Zheng's production oversight guarantees product quality and operational efficiency.
However, there are some gaps in the team that could be critical for achieving future milestones. The company would benefit from a dedicated Chief Financial Officer (CFO) to manage financial strategy and capital allocation effectively. Additionally, expanding the team to include more full-time executives with experience in scaling operations and marketing could further strengthen GoSun's ability to achieve its growth objectives.
Differentiation
GoSun operates in a competitive landscape with several notable competitors in the portable solar panel and solar-powered appliance market. Key competitors include Aliexpress and Solar Paradise.
Aliexpress, a major global e-commerce platform, offers a wide range of solar-powered products, including solar chargers, lights, and portable panels. The platform benefits from its vast distribution network and competitive pricing due to economies of scale. However, the product quality can vary significantly, as Aliexpress serves as a marketplace for numerous third-party sellers. This variability can impact consumer trust and satisfaction.
Solar Paradise is another prominent competitor, specializing in solar-powered solutions for outdoor and emergency use. The company offers a variety of solar products, including solar generators, panels, and lighting solutions. Solar Paradise is known for its focus on quality and customer service, but its products tend to be priced higher than those found on platforms like Aliexpress. This higher pricing reflects the company's emphasis on reliability and performance, catering to consumers willing to invest more in durable and efficient solar solutions.
In comparison, GoSun positions itself with a strong emphasis on product quality and innovation. The company has developed a range of solar-powered appliances, including solar ovens, coolers, chargers, and lights, designed to perform efficiently and meet essential needs without emissions. GoSun's pricing is generally higher than that of Aliexpress but competitive with Solar Paradise, reflecting its focus on delivering reliable and high-performance products.
GoSun's customer demographics primarily include environmentally conscious consumers, outdoor enthusiasts, and individuals in remote or off-grid locations. These customers value sustainability, independence from traditional energy sources, and the convenience of portable energy solutions. GoSun's products appeal to those who prioritize eco-friendly living and seek practical solutions for cooking, cooling, and charging devices while off the grid.
GoSun's differentiation is further supported by its portfolio of intellectual property, including five patents and six trademarks. These patents cover various aspects of its solar technologies, providing a competitive edge by protecting its innovations and enhancing product performance. This focus on intellectual property underscores GoSun's commitment to delivering unique and efficient solar-powered solutions.
Overall, GoSun differentiates itself from competitors through its emphasis on product quality, innovation, and a strong commitment to sustainability. By targeting a specific demographic that values eco-friendly and reliable energy solutions, GoSun aims to carve out a distinct position in the growing portable solar panel market.
Performance
GoSun's year-over-year revenue growth rate is disappointing. In the 2023, GoSun's revenue was $2.8 million, down from $5.7 million in the 2022, indicating a decline of approximately 51%. This substantial drop is due to the slowdown in gaming purchases post-covid, and a couple underperforming products launched by the company in 2023.
The company's financial metrics highlight some critical aspects of its operational health. GoSun's most recent monthly burn rate stands at $50k, while its cash on hand at the end of the most recent fiscal year was $500k. This suggests that the company has 10 months of operational runway.
Despite the revenue decline, GoSun has made notable progress in product development and market penetration. The company has sold over 155,000 products across 80 countries, demonstrating its ability to reach a global market. Additionally, GoSun's recent product launch, the EV Solar Charger, generated over $ 3 million in pre-sales within 60 days, indicating strong initial traction and market interest.
Operationally, GoSun has established partnerships that enhance its market presence. For instance, the partnership with Peet's Coffee has helped promote the GoSun Brew, combining product sales with promotional offers. The company's products have also received nationwide TV coverage, further increasing brand visibility.
In summary, GoSun's performance reflects a mixed picture. The company has demonstrated its ability to generate significant sales and achieve global market penetration. However, the substantial year-over-year revenue decline, high monthly burn rate, and increased net loss present challenges that need to be addressed. The company's ability to secure additional funding, manage its cash flow, and achieve sustained revenue growth will be critical to its future success.
Risk
Investing in GoSun comes with several specific risks that potential investors should carefully consider.
One significant risk is the company's substantial year-over-year revenue decline. GoSun's annual revenue dropped from $5.7 million in the 2022 to $2.8 million in 2023, a decline of approximately 51%. This steep reduction raises concerns about the company's ability to sustain and grow its revenue base, especially in a competitive market.
Additionally, GoSun's high revenue multiple of 14.48x indicates that its current valuation is significantly higher compared to its annual revenue. While this multiple suggests strong future growth potential, it also implies high expectations that the company must meet to justify its valuation. Failure to achieve these growth targets could negatively impact investor returns.
GoSun's team structure also presents a risk. Despite having experienced executives, the company relies heavily on its founder and CEO, Patrick Sherwin, who is the only deeply experienced executive committed full-time. This concentration of leadership responsibilities on a single individual poses a risk if Sherwin becomes unavailable or unable to drive the company's growth. Additionally, the small size of the team could limit GoSun's ability to scale and manage the complexities of its operations effectively.
The market for solar-powered consumer appliances is still emerging, and GoSun is an early entrant. This presents adoption risk, as consumer awareness and acceptance of solar technologies for small appliances are not yet widespread. While GoSun's products address a clear need, convincing a broader audience to adopt these solutions may require significant marketing and educational efforts.
Finally, GoSun's product development involves high capital intensity. The company's technologically complex products, such as solar ovens, coolers, chargers, and lighting, require substantial investment in research and development, manufacturing, and quality control. This high capital intensity increases financial risk, particularly if GoSun faces challenges in raising the necessary funds or managing production costs efficiently.
In summary, while GoSun shows potential in addressing the renewable energy market with its solar-powered products, several specific risks, including a large revenue drop, high revenue multiple, low runway, team structure, adoption risk, and high capital intensity, must be carefully evaluated by prospective investors.
Bullish Outlook
The bullish outlook for GoSun is supported by several key factors that highlight the company's potential for growth and market success.
One of the primary positive factors is the significant market opportunity in the global portable solar panel market, which is projected to reach approximately $370.6 million with a CAGR of 17.58%. As consumer demand for sustainable energy solutions continues to rise, GoSun is well-positioned to capitalize on this trend with its range of solar-powered products. The increasing government support for renewable energy and rising awareness of environmental benefits further bolster the market potential for GoSun's offerings.
GoSun's unique strengths and competitive advantages also contribute to a positive outlook. The company has developed a diverse portfolio of solar-powered appliances, including solar ovens, coolers, chargers, and lights. These products are designed to meet essential needs without emissions, appealing to environmentally conscious consumers and outdoor enthusiasts. Additionally, GoSun holds several patents, which protect its innovations and enhance product performance, providing a competitive edge in the market.
The leadership team at GoSun, led by CEO Patrick Sherwin, brings substantial experience and expertise in solar technology and business development. Sherwin's background as an inventor and solar engineer, combined with Gary Starr's extensive experience in market entry and business growth, positions the company well for executing its growth strategies. The team's strong focus on product development and market expansion aligns with the company's goals of delivering high-quality, reliable solar solutions.
Partnerships and achievements further support GoSun's positive outlook. The company has established notable partnerships, such as with Peet's Coffee, which helps enhance brand visibility and reach. Additionally, the successful pre-sales of over $3 million for the new EV Solar Charger within 60 days demonstrate strong market interest and initial traction for new product launches. Nationwide TV coverage and significant social media engagement further increase the company's exposure and potential customer base.
Favorable investment terms and valuation compared to industry benchmarks also contribute to a positive outlook. Although GoSun's revenue multiple of 14.48x is higher than some industry standards, it reflects strong future growth expectations. The current valuation of $40.8 million, down from a previous valuation of $59 million, presents a more attractive entry point for investors. This adjustment in valuation offers potential for higher returns as the company addresses its growth challenges and capitalizes on market opportunities.
Several growth drivers could lead to significant expansion for GoSun. The company is leveraging emerging trends in renewable energy and portable electronics, catering to a growing market of consumers seeking off-grid power solutions. GoSun's expansion plans include targeting new markets and increasing its product offerings to meet diverse consumer needs. Innovations in solar technology, such as the development of the EV Solar Charger, set GoSun apart and drive additional revenue streams.
In summary, the bullish outlook for GoSun is supported by substantial market opportunities, unique strengths, a strong leadership team, notable partnerships, and favorable investment terms. The company's ability to innovate, expand its market reach, and leverage emerging trends in renewable energy positions it for significant growth and success in the competitive solar market.
Bearish Outlook
The bearish outlook for GoSun is influenced by several key factors that present challenges to the company's growth and financial stability.
Firstly, the company faces significant market challenges. Despite the growing global demand for renewable energy solutions, GoSun experienced a substantial year-over-year revenue decline from $5.7 million to $2.8 million, a drop of approximately 51%. This indicates potential difficulties in maintaining market share and consistent revenue streams. Furthermore, the high initial cost of GoSun's products could limit their appeal to a broader consumer base, especially in price-sensitive markets.
In comparison to its competitors, GoSun also exhibits certain weaknesses. Platforms like Aliexpress offer a wide range of solar products at more competitive prices due to economies of scale and extensive distribution networks. Even though Aliexpress may have variability in product quality, its lower pricing could attract budget-conscious consumers who might otherwise consider GoSun's offerings. Additionally, Solar Paradise, despite its higher pricing, is known for its strong customer service and reliable products, potentially overshadowing GoSun's market presence.
From a team perspective, GoSun's reliance on a small team, with only one deeply experienced executive committed full-time, is a notable concern. This concentration of responsibilities on CEO Patrick Sherwin poses a risk if he becomes unavailable or unable to drive the company's growth. The absence of a dedicated Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and the need for additional full-time executives with experience in scaling operations and marketing further exacerbate this issue.
Partnerships and customer traction also present challenges. While GoSun has established some partnerships and achieved pre-sales for new products, the company must maintain and expand these relationships to ensure sustained growth. Any setbacks in these areas could hinder market penetration and revenue generation.
Regarding investment terms, the company's high revenue multiple of 14.48x suggests significant expectations for future growth. This multiple is substantially higher than industry benchmarks, indicating that the current valuation may not be fully justified by the company's recent financial performance. Investors may find this valuation challenging to reconcile with the substantial revenue decline and limited operational runway.
Several growth inhibitors could impede GoSun's progress. Technological hurdles related to the development and production of advanced solar products require substantial capital investment, which may strain financial resources. Regulatory hurdles, such as compliance with complex waste management and disposal regulations for solar panels, could increase operational costs and pose environmental challenges. Additionally, the company's early market entry presents adoption risks, as consumer awareness and acceptance of solar technologies for small appliances are not yet widespread.
In summary, while GoSun has potential in the renewable energy market, several factors contribute to a bearish outlook. These include substantial revenue decline, high product costs, competitive weaknesses, team structure concerns, challenging investment terms, technological and regulatory hurdles, and financial constraints. Addressing these challenges will be crucial for GoSun to achieve sustained growth and financial stability.
Executive Summary
GoSun is a company focused on developing and selling solar-powered products for cooking, cooling, lighting, and charging electronics. The company targets environmentally conscious consumers, outdoor enthusiasts, and individuals in remote areas who seek sustainable and portable energy solutions. With over 155,000 products sold across 80 countries and $23 million in sales in 2023, GoSun has established a global presence.
GoSun is offering Common Equity in its current funding round, with a pre-money valuation of $40.8 million and a price per share of $3.00. The company's high revenue multiple of 14.48x reflects significant expectations for future growth. To provide a 10X return to investors, GoSun's valuation would need to reach approximately $408 million, necessitating substantial revenue growth and market expansion.
The global portable solar panel market, valued at $370.6 million with a CAGR of 17.58%, presents a significant opportunity for GoSun. Key market drivers include increasing concerns about fossil fuel depletion, government support for renewable energy, and rising consumer demand for sustainable solutions. However, high product costs and regulatory challenges could impact market penetration.
GoSun's recent financial performance shows a mixed picture. The company reported a 51% decline in year-over-year revenue, from $5.7 million to $2.8 million. Despite these challenges, the company has shown strong product development and market penetration, with significant pre-sales for its new EV Solar Charger.
Key risks include the significant year-over-year revenue decline, high revenue multiple, short operational runway, and reliance on a small team. The adoption risk associated with being an early market entrant and the high capital intensity of product development also pose challenges.
On the bullish side, GoSun's established market presence, strong initial traction for new products, and alignment with growing market trends in renewable energy are positive factors. The company's innovative product offerings and global reach provide a solid foundation for future growth.
On the bearish side, the substantial revenue decline, limited runway, and high expectations reflected in the revenue multiple are significant concerns. Addressing these challenges will be crucial for GoSun to realize its growth potential.
In conclusion, GoSun presents a balanced investment opportunity with both promising growth drivers and notable risks. Potential investors should weigh the company's innovative product offerings and market potential against the financial and operational challenges it faces.
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Company Funding & Growth
Funding history
- Total Prior Capital Raised
- $6,067,017
- VC Backed?
- No
Close Date | Platform | Valuation | Total Raised | Security Type | Status | Reg Type |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
09/23/2024 | StartEngine | $40,817,388 | $292,944 | Equity - Common | Funded | RegCF |
04/10/2023 | StartEngine | $59,891,925 | $2,798,114 | Equity - Preferred | Funded | RegCF |
07/14/2020 | StartEngine | $14,029,817 | $1,069,999 | Equity - Common | Funded | RegCF |
09/06/2017 | SeedInvest | $10,000,000 | $599,459 | Convertible Note | Funded | RegCF / RegD 506(c) |
Growth Charts
Revenue History
Note: Revenue data points reflect the latest of either the most recent fiscal year's financials, or updated revenues directly from the founder, at each raise's close date.
Valuation History
Price per Share History
Note: Share prices shown in earlier rounds may not be indicative of any stock splits.