Michigan-based Electric Outdoors, a startup focused on sustainable off-grid camping solutions, has successfully secured $1.3 million in the initial closing of its $3 million seed round.
Electric Outdoors provides eco-friendly solutions that enable outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy remote destinations while minimizing environmental impact. Its flagship product, the EO Canopy, is a revolutionary glamping platform powered entirely by renewable resources, offering off-grid energy, water, waste management, satellite internet, and Level 2 EV charging.
The $1.3 million initial closing, led by advanced EV technology company Veolectra, Inc., alongside investors Michigan Rise and the Michigan Outdoor Innovation Fund, provides crucial funding for the company to expand production and testing of its EO Canopy units. The first commercial pilot was recently launched in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.
“Collaborating with Varnum has been a tremendous advantage as we secure funding to expand our operations,” said Josef Hjelmaker, CEO of Electric Outdoors. “Their knowledge has been key in guiding us through this process.”
Varnum’s Matt Bower, Mallory Field, and Matt Shina advised Electric Outdoors in connection with the capital raise. The seed round is expected to close by the end of the year.
Varnum’s relationship with Electric Outdoors began through its MiSpringboard program, which offers free legal services to Michigan startups and growing businesses. The firm initially assisted the company with organizational matters, general corporate work, and two rounds of early-stage funding. Electric Outdoors’ success is emblematic of the high-quality startups Varnum serves through MiSpringboard, showcasing the potential of innovative companies that benefit from the program’s support.