Food Entrepreneur FREEHOLD, NJ. — Functional beverage brand NERD Focus has opened an equity crowdfunding round with a goal of raising $15,000 to $1.23 million at a $19.6 million valuation. The campaign is hosted on StartEngine, a crowdfunding platform.

Billed as the “original think drink,” NERD Focus is formulated with a blend of nootropics, adaptogens and caffeine to deliver sustained energy and enhanced cognition benefits, according to the company. The brand was developed by a pre-med student and professors at the University of Texas at San Antonio and later acquired by Beverage USA. The products, available in original and zero-calorie options, are sold in more than 3,500 convenience stores, bodegas and grocers throughout Texas, New Jersey and New York.

Investors may participate in the crowdfunding round for as little as $399.99. The company plans to use the funds to support national expansion and new product innovation.

"This marks an important step in our growth journey by opening up an opportunity for our community and supporters to become shareholders in NERD Focus," said Rocco LaVista, co-founder of Beverage USA. "Our mission has always been to help people achieve peak mental performance while staying health conscious. This campaign with StartEngine will help us to continue building on the momentum that’s seen us attract sponsorship partners including the New Jersey Devils, San Antonio Spurs and UFC bantamweight champion, Aljamain Sterling.”


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