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Krystal Persaud is a millennial. As a millennial, she connects with others who are passionate about finding alternative energy sources and decreasing our dependence on fossil fuels. Using her skills in electronic product design, Krystal is dedicated to providing solar solutions to residents who may not have the financial means or space for large rooftop panels. Her company, Grouphug, offers two key types of affordable solar panels: smaller panels for homes and larger designs suitable for businesses that serve as both a statement piece and an energy source.

Grouphug creates solar panels that are aesthetically pleasing and functional. They simply are hung in any window with sunlight access. The solar energy will then charge the internal battery which later can be transferred by the USB port to charge and power handheld electronic devices such as phones and tablets. Grouphug brings solar capabilities to residents that previously could not access this type of energy such as apartments and businesses in urban settings. For businesses, Grouphug’s specialty designs can allow multiple users to charge devices while they wait, creating a value add and a social and environmental responsibility component to any business.

After launching Grouphug on Kickstarter in June of 2019, Krystal has received $80,000 in sales so far but has not yet begun to fill orders. She is looking for a Shark that is willing to invest $150,000 for 10% of Grouphug. Although she has off-shore manufacturing established because of her contacts from her previous job, she needs an investment partner that can help her scale and drive her costs down and her margins up so that she can make her solar panels affordable.

Most of the Sharks decline to make offers because they feel that she is in the tank too early and are afraid that they will not get their return on investment. Mark Cuban, however, sees value in the B2B side of Grouphug. He can see large companies sponsoring solar panel charging stations. Mark offers to make an investment of $150,000 in exchange for a 25% equity share. He is not willing to negotiate. Grouphug accepts Mark Cuban’s offer.

What do you think of Grouphug’s product? Would you purchase these solar panels and use them in your home or office to offset the electricity needed for charging devices? Do you think that Krystal made a wise decision in giving up so much equity in her company? Start the conversation in the comments below!