Led · Seed · Oct 2023

EarthGrid has developed proprietary plasma tunnel-boring technology embodied in Tunnel Boring Robots (TBRs) that use plasma-powered torches to break down geologic structures. The company plans to scale production of TBRs to build a network of new underground transmission lines across the United States to increase electricity transmission capacity. Management frames the work as supporting America’s clean energy transition while enhancing safety, security and reliability by housing critical grid infrastructure underground. EarthGrid intends to deploy the technology in announced projects and anticipates a major joint venture that will generate multiple years of revenue. Financially, the company raised a $30M seed round in 2023, including more than $3M via a NetCapital crowdfunding campaign, bringing total equity raised to approximately $50M since its 2016 founding. Troy Helming is CEO and the company says it has a binding term sheet with a prominent institutional investor to lead significant financing in early 2024.

Led · Seed · Feb 2022

Mariposa Technology develops the PAMAP digital farming tool and a proprietary database/software that delivers real-time onsite answers about live hemp plants based on their molecular structure. The startup has an exclusive agreement with Texas A&M to build its proprietary database. Farmers across Louisiana, Texas and Colorado have participated in scanning trials for THC levels, male/female determination in immature plants, and variety identification. An array of cannabinoids will soon be added to the proprietary database. The company was co-founded in 2021 by Mickal Adler (CEO) and John Roberts (CKO) and is based in Metairie and New Orleans, LA. It recently raised seed funding to further develop PAMAP.

Led · Equity · Dec 2020

MAGFAST produces a series of stylish charging devices and power banks designed to fit within the Apple ecosystem. Launched in 2017, the company targets users of iPhones, AirPods, Apple Watches and other mobile devices that require frequent charging. Its initial pre-order campaign generated roughly $600,000 in about 24 hours, and MAGFAST said it was on track to generate about $10 million in orders during 2020. Products are sold direct-to-consumer and the company has relied on paid pre-orders to reduce the amount of external debt or equity it needed to raise. According to the offering document, MAGFAST is currently generating a loss. Proceeds from the recent securities offering are expected to be used primarily for manufacturing, materials, and production-related activities.