HOPE Hydration Secures $20M in 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 investment is set to accelerate the company's expansion into new markets, enhance manufacturing capabilities, foster product innovation, and strengthen strategic partnerships globally.

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, provide free, high-quality, chilled drinking water in various public spaces, including cities, stadiums, airports, and commercial areas.

Jorge Richardson, CEO and Co-Founder of HOPE Hydration, highlighted the growing demand for sustainable hydration solutions amidst increased travel and outdoor activities. The funding will support the scaling of a new infrastructure designed for health, exploration, and environmental sustainability.

Adrian Chiu, EVP and President of Pentair Water Solutions, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, emphasizing the alignment with Pentair's mission to sustainably improve water quality. The collaboration leverages Pentair's filtration technology and expertise to broaden HOPE's impact and reduce single-use plastic bottle consumption.

HOPE's HydroStations feature proprietary IoT technology for real-time data monitoring, including refill counts, plastic and CO2 savings, and water output, facilitating proactive maintenance. Additionally, the stations offer a unique advertising platform through 55” LED screens, enabling brand partnerships that allow for cost-free installations at venues.

Since 2023, HOPE has facilitated over 2 million refills, partnering with major events, Fortune 500 brands, and public spaces. The recent funding aims to achieve 10 million refills by year's end, marking a significant step towards the company's mission of making clean water accessible worldwide.