Solar Universe builds a franchise network of solar installers and provides franchisees with training, lead generation, marketing, product distribution, financing help and business-management software. Its core asset is an end-to-end software platform covering lead capture, proposal generation, front- and back-office functions, permit assembly, invoicing, partner financing and customer loyalty. The company operates about two dozen franchises across California, Nevada, Arizona, Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Louisiana. Solar Universe reports roughly 800 customers whose systems produce on average 1,100 kWh per month (about 880 MWh generated monthly in total). The founder says the franchise model requires very little capital to scale and the company has consistently performed to plan. With the new capital the company plans to recruit more franchisees and hire up to 20 additional employees over the next two quarters, and has already added hires to run supply chain, quality control and franchise development.

Total raised

$7M

Funding rounds

1

Latest round

Series B

Latest activity

Jan 2011