HOPE Hydration Secures $20M Series A Funding to Expand Access to Clean Water

HOPE Hydration, a tech-enabled company dedicated to reducing single-use plastic waste and promoting sustainable hydration, has announced a $20 million Series A funding round led by Pentair plc, with participation from Burnt Island Ventures. This significant financial boost is set to propel the company's expansion into new markets, enhance manufacturing capabilities, spur product innovation, and forge strategic partnerships to amplify its global impact.

Founded by Jorge Richardson, Cristina Gnecco, and Dave Tigue, HOPE Hydration operates on the principle that access to clean water is a fundamental human right. The company's HydroStations, equipped with Everpure filtration technology from Pentair Water Solutions, offer free, high-quality, and chilled drinking water in public spaces such as cities, stadiums, airports, and commercial areas. These stations not only provide essential hydration but also feature proprietary IoT technology for real-time data monitoring, including refill counts and environmental savings, alongside digital advertising capabilities.

Jorge Richardson, CEO and Co-Founder of HOPE Hydration, highlighted the growing demand for accessible water solutions amidst increasing travel and outdoor activities. The investment will enable the company to scale its innovative infrastructure, designed to benefit health, exploration, and the planet. Adrian Chiu of Pentair Water Solutions expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, emphasizing the alignment with Pentair's mission to sustainably improve water quality worldwide.

Since its inception, HOPE Hydration has facilitated over 2 million refills, partnering with major events, Fortune 500 brands, and public venues. With the new funding, the company aims to achieve 10 million refills by year's end, marking a significant step toward reducing single-use plastic consumption and enhancing access to clean water. HOPE's backers include Boost VC, Spice Capital, and Phoenix Suns' Grayson Allen, among others.