Zero-Gravity

Zero-Gravity

Zero-Gravity is raising funds on Republic. It is the only FAA-approved provider of zero-gravity flights. Zero-Gravity has been in operation for over 20 years and has run 850 flights, with more than 22,000 flyers and 16,000 parabolas. The flights of Zero-Gravity are being used for astronaut training, research, and public enjoyment and have a spotless safety record due to rigorous internal safety standards. Kevin Sproge founded Zero-Gravity in March 1998. The current crowdfunding campaign has a minimum target of $49,997.50 and a maximum target of $4.9 million. The campaign proceeds will be used for the second aircraft acquisition and operating capital.

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Investment Overview

Raised this Round: Raised: $263,301

Deal Terms

Total Commitments ($USD)

Platform
Republic
Start Date
09/14/2024
Close Date
12/31/2024
Min. Goal
$49,998
Max. Goal
$4,999,999
Min. Investment

$100

Security Type

Equity - Common

Series

Seed

SEC Filing Type

RegCF    Open SEC Filing

Price Per Share

$3.50

Pre-Money Valuation

$23,351,951

Company & Team

Company

Year Founded
1998
Industry
Transportation, Automotive, Aviation, & Aerospace
Tech Sector
Non-Tech
Distribution Model
B2B/B2C
Margin
Low
Capital Intensity
High
Location
Dumfries, Virginia
Business Type
Growth
Company Website
Visit Website

Team

Employees
18
Prior Founder Exits?
No
Founder Name
Kevin Sproge
Title
Chief Executive Officer

Financials

as of August 30, 2024
 Revenue -99.3% YoY
$90,085
 Monthly Burn
$580,785
 Runway
1.5 months

Summary Profit and Loss Statement

FY 2023 FY 2022

Revenue

$90,085

$11,957,048

COGS

$5,757,185

$9,960,030

Tax

$0

$0

 

 

Net Income

$-6,969,424

$-2,043,095

Summary Balance Sheet

FY 2023 FY 2022

Cash

$133,087

$660,774

Accounts Receivable

$1,455,500

$0

Total Assets

$13,563,993

$8,210,589

Short-Term Debt

$16,994,672

$4,123,054

Long-Term Debt

$1,072,989

$1,830,337

Total Liabilities

$18,067,661

$5,953,391

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Synopsis

Zero-Gravity, also known as Zero-G, is the only FAA-approved provider of zero-gravity flights in the United States. The company has been in operation for over 20 years, conducting 850 flights and serving more than 22,000 flyers. Zero-G's flights are utilized for astronaut training, research, and public enjoyment. The company has maintained a spotless safety record through rigorous internal standards.

The primary customers of Zero-G include government agencies like NASA and the U.S. Space Force, commercial space companies, research institutions, and private individuals seeking the unique experience of zero-gravity. The company also partners with brands and media for marketing campaigns and entertainment purposes.

Zero-G addresses the problem of accessing microgravity environments for training and research without the need for space travel. Traditional methods of experiencing zero gravity require long and costly trips to space, which are not feasible for many researchers and enthusiasts.

Zero-G offers parabolic flights that simulate the weightlessness of space by flying in a series of arcs. This allows passengers to experience short periods of zero gravity, making it possible to conduct scientific experiments, train astronauts, and provide a unique experience for the public. These flights offer a practical and cost-effective solution for accessing microgravity without leaving Earth's atmosphere.

For example, imagine a scientist needing to test the behavior of liquids in a microgravity environment. Instead of waiting for a space mission, they can book a Zero-G flight and conduct their experiments within hours. Similarly, a space enthusiast can experience the sensation of floating without the extensive training and expense of going to space.

Next Section: Price

Price

Zero-G is offering Common Equity in its current funding round. The pre-money valuation for this round is set at $23.4 million, with a price per share of $3.50. This valuation reflects the company's established presence and potential in the zero-gravity flight market.

Investing through common equity provides investors with ownership in Zero-G. Common equity holders typically have voting rights and may receive dividends, but they are last in line to receive any payouts in the event of liquidation. This contrasts with preferred equity, which often comes with additional rights and preferences, such as priority in receiving dividends and liquidation proceeds, offering more security to investors.

For Zero-G to provide a 10X return to investors, the company would need to achieve a post-exit valuation of approximately $234 million (not accounting for dilution). This would require substantial growth in revenue and market share, considering the company's current valuation and revenue figures. The market for parabolic flight tourism is still emerging, and Zero-G would need to continue securing contracts and increasing its customer base to reach such a valuation. However, since the business has already been around for two decades, investors can worry whether the company actually has plans to exit.

Zero-G's revenue multiple stands at 259.22x, which is considerably high. This high multiple suggests that the current valuation may be overestimated, considering the company's revenue figures. Achieving significant returns will necessitate continued revenue growth and market expansion. Investors should be aware that the high revenue multiple indicates a premium valuation, which may present challenges in realizing expected returns.

Next Section: Market

Market

The market for zero-gravity flights is driven by several key trends and factors. The increasing interest in commercial space exploration and tourism is a significant driver, as more individuals and organizations seek to experience microgravity environments. Additionally, the growing need for astronaut training and space research solutions contributes to the demand for zero-gravity flights.

Parabolic flights offer a practical alternative to space travel for experiencing microgravity. They are utilized for short-duration technological and scientific investigations, astronaut training, and validating space instruments. These flights provide a cost-effective solution for researchers and enthusiasts compared to the high costs and lengthy training associated with space missions.

Zero-G targets a niche within the broader aerospace and tourism markets. Its primary customers include governmental agencies like NASA, commercial space companies, research institutions, and individual enthusiasts. While the concept of zero-gravity flights appeals to a specialized segment, the potential for growth exists as interest in space exploration continues to rise.

The addressable market for U.S. parabolic flight tourism is estimated at $20.5 million, with a growth rate of 34.1%. This substantial growth rate reflects the increasing interest and investment in space-related activities. However, the niche nature of the market means that Zero-G needs to continue differentiating its offerings to maintain and grow its customer base.

Market trends such as the rise in commercial space launches and technological advancements in aerospace contribute positively to Zero-G's growth potential. These trends increase the accessibility and appeal of zero-gravity experiences. On the other hand, the market's niche nature and the high operational costs pose challenges that could impact the company's expansion and profitability.

Next Section: Team

Team

Zero-G's leadership team brings a wealth of experience and expertise, crucial for the company's operations and growth in the niche market of zero-gravity flights.

Kevin Sproge, the CEO, has a 20+ year career as a U.S. Navy Test Pilot and Aerospace Engineering Duty Officer. His background includes being an original crewmember at Blue Origin and holding a Director of Mission Assurance role at Sierra Space. His expertise in aerospace engineering and mission assurance aligns well with Zero-G's focus on safety and operational excellence.

Matt Gohd, the Executive Chairman, served as Zero-G CEO from 2019 to 2022. He has over 40 years of experience in the securities industry, involving over 50 IPOs, mergers, restructurings, and acquisitions. His financial acumen and experience in growing revenues by 400% during his tenure at Zero-G are invaluable for strategic growth initiatives.

Keri Edwards, the Vice President of Operations, brings 20+ years of aviation experience, including roles in operations, customer experience, and hospitality. Her previous experience as CEO of Meeting Point North America and growing Via Airlines from an FAA Part 135 to an FAA Part 121 operation demonstrates her capability in scaling aviation operations, which is critical for Zero-G's expansion plans.

Gregory Melon, the Vice President of Marketing & Sales, has 14 years of experience building high-performing marketing and sales teams. He has driven over $85 million in career sales across various industries. His expertise in marketing and sales is essential for Zero-G to expand its customer base and increase revenue streams.

The team's combined experience in aerospace, aviation operations, financial management, and marketing aligns well with Zero-G's goals of maintaining safety, expanding operations, and growing its market presence. However, the company may benefit from additional expertise in large-scale manufacturing and supply chain management to support future growth and aircraft acquisition plans.

Next Section: Differentiation

Differentiation

Zero-G differentiates itself in the zero-gravity flight market through its status as the only FAA-approved provider of such flights in the United States. This unique position allows Zero-G to offer unparalleled safety and regulatory compliance, a significant advantage over competitors.

Competitors in the industry include MiGFlug, AirZeroG, and Incredible Adventures. MiGFlug offers high-altitude flights in fighter jets, providing a different but related experience. Compared to Zero-G, MiGFlug's offerings are more focused on high-speed and high-altitude experiences rather than sustained microgravity. AirZeroG, based in Europe, provides similar parabolic flight experiences but lacks the FAA approval and established safety record that Zero-G boasts. Incredible Adventures offers a variety of adventure experiences, including zero-gravity flights, but does not specialize exclusively in this area like Zero-G.

In terms of company size, Zero-G has been in operation for over 20 years, conducting 850 flights and serving more than 22,000 flyers. This extensive operational history and experience set it apart from newer or smaller competitors. The company's pricing is competitive within the niche market it serves, with a focus on providing a premium, safe, and reliable experience.

Zero-G targets a diverse range of customers, including governmental agencies, commercial space companies, research institutions, and private individuals. The primary demographics include space enthusiasts, researchers, and organizations involved in space exploration and training. High-profile clients such as NASA and the U.S. Space Force, along with partnerships with brands like Google and The Bachelorette, highlight the company's broad appeal and credibility.

The company's unique value proposition lies in its exclusive FAA approval, extensive operational history, and diversified customer base. These factors provide a significant competitive edge, allowing Zero-G to maintain a strong position in the specialized market of zero-gravity flights.

Next Section: Performance

Performance

Zero-G's financial performance has experienced significant fluctuations. The company's annual revenue dropped from $12 million in the prior fiscal year to $90k in the most recent fiscal year, indicating a year-over-year decline of approximately 99.3%. This substantial decrease highlights potential challenges in maintaining consistent revenue streams.

The most recent monthly burn rate for Zero-G is $580,785. This figure underscores the capital-intensive nature of the business, which requires substantial ongoing investment in operations and maintenance. As of the most recent fiscal year-end, the company reported having $859k in cash on hand. This cash position provides a limited buffer to support ongoing operations and future initiatives, given the high monthly burn rate.

Zero-G's total assets at the end of the most recent fiscal year amounted to $13.6 million. This includes the value of its aircraft and other operational assets, which are crucial for its business model. However, the company also reported significant liabilities, with short-term debt at $17 million and long-term debt at $1.1 million. These debt levels indicate a need for careful financial management to ensure sustainability.

Despite these challenges, Zero-G has managed to secure notable partnerships and clients, including NASA, Blue Origin, and the U.S. Space Force. These relationships underscore the company's credibility and potential for future growth. However, the financial instability and high operational costs present ongoing risks that need to be addressed to achieve long-term success.

Next Section: Risk

Risk

Investing in Zero-G presents several specific risks that potential investors should consider.

One of the primary concerns is the company's high revenue multiple of 259.22x. This figure suggests that the current valuation may be overestimated given the company's revenue figures. Achieving the expected returns would require significant revenue growth and market expansion, which may be challenging in the niche market of zero-gravity flights.

Another key risk factor is the substantial year-over-year revenue drop. Zero-G reported annual revenue of $90k in the most recent fiscal year, down from $12 million the previous year. This significant decline could indicate operational challenges or market saturation issues that need to be addressed to restore and sustain growth.

The company also faces high capital intensity, requiring continuous investment in aircraft acquisition, maintenance, and operational costs. This capital-intensive nature means Zero-G might need ongoing funding to sustain its business, leading to potential dilution for existing investors.

Additionally, the lengthy sales cycles associated with securing contracts in the aviation and aerospace sectors could impact the company's cash flow and operational stability. These extended cycles can delay revenue recognition and strain financial resources, especially given the high upfront costs involved in flight operations.

Another risk is the potential for regulatory and licensing issues. As the only FAA-approved provider of zero-gravity flights, maintaining this unique status involves stringent compliance with aviation regulations. Any changes in regulatory requirements or failure to maintain certifications could disrupt operations and revenue streams.

Moreover, the market for parabolic flight tourism is still emerging and has limited competition. While this offers growth opportunities, it also comes with adoption risks. Convincing a broader customer base to try zero-gravity flights and securing recurring business from institutional clients may take longer than anticipated.

Finally, Zero-G's net income has shown a significant loss in the most recent fiscal year, with a net income of -$7 million. This negative profitability signals financial instability that could impact the company's ability to fund operations and expansion without relying heavily on external capital.

Next Section: Bullish Outlook

Bullish Outlook

The bullish outlook for Zero-G is supported by several key factors that could drive the company's growth and success in the niche market of zero-gravity flights.

One of the primary positive factors is the growing interest in commercial space exploration and tourism. The market for parabolic flight tourism is estimated at $20.5 million with an impressive growth rate of 34.1%. This expanding market offers significant opportunities for Zero-G to increase its customer base and revenue.

Zero-G's unique strength lies in its status as the only FAA-approved provider of zero-gravity flights in the United States. This regulatory approval provides a competitive advantage, ensuring a high level of safety and credibility that competitors may not match. The company's extensive operational history of over 20 years and a spotless safety record further enhance its market position.

Notable partnerships and high-profile clients such as NASA, Blue Origin, and the U.S. Space Force underscore Zero-G's credibility and potential for future collaborations. These relationships not only provide a steady stream of revenue but also elevate the company's standing within the industry.

The leadership team, including CEO Kevin Sproge and Executive Chairman Matt Gohd, brings extensive experience in aerospace, aviation, and financial management. This strong leadership is crucial for navigating the company's growth and addressing any operational challenges.

Several growth drivers could propel Zero-G forward. The rise in commercial space activities and the increasing need for astronaut training and space research solutions align well with Zero-G's offerings. The company is poised to benefit from these emerging trends, providing cost-effective microgravity experiences for a wide range of customers.

Expansion plans into new markets, such as international parabolic flight tourism, could further drive growth. By leveraging its expertise and regulatory approval, Zero-G can explore opportunities beyond the U.S. and tap into the global demand for zero-gravity experiences.

Financially, Zero-G has secured $6.7 million from investors, including Rock Mountain Capital. This substantial funding provides a cushion to support ongoing operations and future growth initiatives. While the company faces financial challenges, the secured funding and potential for revenue growth create a positive outlook.

In summary, the bullish outlook for Zero-G is supported by market opportunities, unique competitive advantages, strong partnerships, and capable leadership. The company's position in the growing market of parabolic flight tourism and its regulatory approval provide a solid foundation for future growth and success.

Next Section: Bearish Outlook

Bearish Outlook

The bearish outlook for Zero-G is influenced by several key factors that could negatively impact the company's growth and stability.

One major concern is the substantial year-over-year revenue drop from $12 million to $90k. This drastic decline raises questions about the company's ability to maintain consistent revenue streams and suggests potential operational or market challenges.

Zero-G's high revenue multiple of 259.22x is another significant issue. This multiple indicates that the company's current valuation may be overestimated, making it a riskier investment compared to industry benchmarks. Achieving the expected returns would require exceptional revenue growth and market expansion, which may be challenging in the niche market of zero-gravity flights.

Financially, the company faces hurdles with its high monthly burn rate of $580,785, contrasted with just $859k in cash on hand. This cash position provides limited runway, necessitating continuous funding to sustain operations. The capital-intensive nature of Zero-G's business model adds to the financial pressure, potentially leading to further dilution for existing investors.

Market adoption poses another risk. While there is growing interest in commercial space exploration, the market for zero-gravity flights remains niche. Convincing a broader customer base to adopt this experience may take longer than anticipated, impacting the company's growth trajectory.

Technological and regulatory hurdles also present challenges. Maintaining FAA approval requires stringent compliance with aviation regulations. Any changes in regulatory requirements or failure to maintain certifications could disrupt operations and revenue streams.

In comparison to competitors like MiGFlug and AirZeroG, Zero-G's primary advantage is its FAA approval. However, competitors may offer similar experiences without the same regulatory constraints, potentially attracting customers seeking lower-cost alternatives. Additionally, the lack of innovation beyond its core offering could limit Zero-G's ability to stay ahead of competitors who may introduce new or enhanced offerings.

Leadership and management stability are crucial for Zero-G's success. While the team has relevant experience, the significant revenue drop and high operational costs raise concerns about the effectiveness of the current strategy and execution.

Overall, these factors contribute to a bearish outlook for Zero-G. The company's financial instability, niche market focus, high valuation, and potential regulatory challenges pose substantial risks that could hinder its growth and long-term viability.

Next Section: Executive Summary

Executive Summary

Zero-G is the only FAA-approved provider of zero-gravity flights in the United States, targeting government agencies, commercial space companies, research institutions, and private individuals. The company offers parabolic flights for astronaut training, research, and public enjoyment, leveraging its unique regulatory status and extensive operational history.

Zero-G is offering Common Equity at a pre-money valuation of $23.4 million, with a price per share of $3.50. However, the company faces significant challenges, including a high revenue multiple of 259.22x and a substantial year-over-year revenue drop from $12 million to $90k. The most recent monthly burn rate is $580,785, with $859k in cash on hand, indicating a need for careful financial management.

The market for parabolic flight tourism is estimated at $20.5 million, with a growth rate of 34.1%. Zero-G differentiates itself through its exclusive FAA approval and established safety record, positioning it uniquely in a niche but growing market. Competitors like MiGFlug, AirZeroG, and Incredible Adventures offer related experiences but lack the same regulatory approval and operational history.

The leadership team, led by CEO Kevin Sproge and Executive Chairman Matt Gohd, brings extensive experience in aerospace, aviation operations, and financial management. This expertise aligns well with Zero-G's goals, although additional skills in large-scale manufacturing and supply chain management could be beneficial. Key risks include the high capital intensity, significant revenue fluctuations, and potential regulatory challenges.

From a bullish perspective, Zero-G stands to benefit from the rising interest in commercial space exploration and tourism. Its unique market position and established partnerships with high-profile clients like NASA bolster its credibility. However, the bearish outlook highlights the company's financial instability, high operational costs, and niche market limitations. Achieving significant returns will require overcoming these challenges and maintaining growth momentum.

In conclusion, Zero-G presents a mixed investment opportunity. The company's unique market position and experienced team are strong positives, but the high revenue multiple, financial volatility, and significant operational costs pose substantial risks. Investors should weigh these factors carefully when considering an investment in Zero-G.

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Company Funding & Growth

Funding history

Total Prior Capital Raised
$67,000,000
VC Backed?
No
Close Date Platform Valuation Total Raised Security Type Status Reg Type
12/31/2024 Republic $23,351,951 $263,301 Equity - Common Active RegCF
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Zero-Gravity on Republic 2024
Platform: Republic
Security Type: Equity - Common
Valuation: $23,351,951
Price per Share: $3.50

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