(Montreal, Canada) July 3, 2023 – Näak announces today the closing of a $3 million funding round to accelerate its international presence and expand its product offering.
The round was led by Mr. William Walcker, Co-founder and CEO of the company. The majority of the funds come from private investors who have been shareholders since 2020 and have been following Näak's development for many years.
Trail running is currently the fastest-growing sport in the world, creating a significant market opportunity for the company. In this context, the brand is experiencing rapid growth, and this funding represents a pre-Series A milestone, which is expected to conclude by late 2023 or early 2024.
« We are currently in a phase of rapid growth, and this funding is crucial to maximize the potential of the company and its international expansion. Our product offering is unique, and endurance athletes and outdoor enthusiasts are highly receptive to the nutritional and ecological benefits they provide. The brand is currently distributed in 5 countries, and we aim to be present in 25 countries within 2 years. » William Walcker, Co-founder and CEO of Näak
The Government of Quebec has invested $750,000 in the company through its Impulsion PME program, for which Investissement Québec acts as the managing agent.
« Our government aims to accelerate the transition from ideas to commercialization for young companies and stimulate the exportation of their projects. Through the Impulsion PME program, we support companies like Näak that rely on innovation to conquer new markets.» Pierre Fitzgibbon, Minister of Economy, Innovation and Energy, Minister responsible for Regional Economic Development, and Minister responsible for the Metropolis and the Montreal Region
« The sports nutrition market is experiencing significant growth in Quebec and internationally. We are proud to have Näak, a dynamic and innovative company offering locally-made products supported by an eco-friendly model, to strengthen Quebec's position of excellence in this promising field.» André Lamontagne, Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, and Minister responsible for the Centre-du-Québec region
« Our young companies are innovative and full of ideas to stand out on the local and international stage. Thanks to the Impulsion PME program, we are delighted to support Näak in its growth projects and contribute to making this Montreal-based player a must-have in sports nutrition for runners from here and abroad.» Guy LeBlanc, President and CEO of Investissement Québec
Näak is the pioneering brand in developing high-performance nutrition and hydration products for trail runners and ultra-distance athletes. Designed to meet the specific needs of ultra-distance athletes, Näak Ultra Energy™ products have been created with the expertise of elite runners such as Canadians Mathieu Blanchard and Marianne Hogan, both of whom finished second in the UTMB in 2022.
Näak was founded in 2016 by two passionate athletes, Minh-Anh Pham and William Walcker, who recognized the essential role of nutrition in performance. The duo also shared a deep passion for environmental issues, leading them to create a solution that utilizes sustainable proteins for fueling during sports activities.
Developed in close collaboration with professional athletes at the Näak Lab, Ultra Energy™ bars, waffles, and drink mixes provide comprehensive nutrition for ultra-distance runners. In addition to supplying carbohydrates and electrolytes, Näak's nutrition and hydration products deliver an optimal intake of complete proteins (EAA and BCAA) to reduce muscle fatigue during prolonged sports activities.
Näak's slogan, "Fuel your ultra, preserve your playground", perfectly embodies the brand's approach to nutrition. From choosing sustainable proteins and responsible sourcing to the company's B Corp certification, Näak always acts with the preservation of mountain playgrounds in mind, creating a positive impact for future generations. All products are made with sustainable proteins, non-GMO ingredients, and are palm oil-free.
William Walcker - william@naak.com
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EDITOR'S NOTE
ABOUT NÄAK
Born in Canada, Näak's mission is to create the most effective and sustainable sports nutrition for ultra-distance athletes. Since 2016, Näak has been developing an innovative range of products that help trail runners and ultra-trail athletes perform without gastrointestinal discomfort. Made with sustainable and non-GMO ingredients, its products cover all the nutritional needs of ultra-distance athletes: energy, hydration, and recovery. In 2021, Näak received B Corp certification, signifying that the company has been verified to meet the highest standards of social and environmental impact. From the choice of sustainable proteins to responsible supply chains, Näak is committed to helping trail runners reach their full potential while preserving their playgrounds. For more information, visit www.naak.com.
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