Built Loop Global: a Top 5 EV Charger Network

Overview

In 2019, the principals of EnCharge founded Loop Global, which has since grown into one of the Top 5 EV charging networks in North America, with over 10,000 charging stations deployed worldwide. Loop Global has become a recognized leader in producing advanced Level 2 and DC fast chargers, innovative network software, and a comprehensive range of value-added accessories for EV charging hardware.

The journey of building Loop Global from the ground up is a testament to the vision, expertise, and leadership of Encharge’s founding partners, Dustin Cavanaugh and Frank Nau, whose contributions continue to influence the EV charging industry on a global scale.

The Challenge

The EV charging market in 2019 faced significant challenges:

• High barriers to entry, including hardware manufacturing and software development.
• The need for scalable infrastructure to meet rapidly increasing EV adoption rates.
• Fragmentation in distribution, making it difficult to penetrate new markets.
• Competition from well-established players in the EV charging space.

To establish Loop Global as a leader, Encharge's founders had to create an innovative, vertically integrated approach to hardware, software, and operations, while simultaneously building trust among Fortune 500 companies, municipalities, and distribution partners.

The Approach

Under the leadership of Dustin and Frank, Loop Global adopted a comprehensive strategy to scale rapidly and establish itself as an industry leader:

1. Building a Best-in-Class Product Ecosystem

• Designed and developed a robust product line, including Level 2 and DC fast chargers, and value-added accessories to meet diverse market needs.
• Built a proprietary network software platform, enabling seamless charger operation, real-time monitoring, and smart energy management solutions.
• Expanded the product portfolio to over 10 products and accessories, catering to multifamily, commercial, municipal, and retail markets.

2. Scaling Manufacturing and Operations

• Established strategic manufacturing relationships to ensure scalability and efficiency.
• Built a global logistics hub in Phoenix, Arizona, and international headquarters in Dubai, complementing Loop's domestic operations in Los Angeles, California.
• Streamlined operations to support deployments at scale, including Fortune 500 clients like JP Morgan Chase, US Bank, Hilton Worldwide, and AvalonBay Communities.

3. Driving Market Penetration

• Developed the largest distribution footprint in the U.S., with over 250 distribution partners.
• Built a Network Partner Program with over 300 resellers and installation contractors, ensuring seamless nationwide deployments.
• Secured long-term contracts with municipalities, utilities, and major corporations, including the Sacramento Municipal Utility District, County of San Bernardino, City of San Diego, and the GSA.

4. Strategic Fundraising

• Raised over $60 million in equity and debt funding from leading proptech venture firms like Fifth Wall and Agility Ventures.
• Successfully led two follow-on investment rounds, achieving valuations exceeding eight figures.
• Invested in R&D and global expansion to position Loop as a long-term leader in the EV charging industry.

5. Leadership and Industry Recognition

• Dustin Cavanaugh served as CEO until 2023, earning recognition as a Los Angeles Times CEO Visionary in 2023.
• Under his leadership, Loop Global was named to Inc. 5000's Fastest Growing Companies of 2023, ranking #8 in the West Region.
• Frank Nau served as COO until 2024, overseeing operations and ensuring consistent growth across all business units.

The Results

• Top 5 EV Charging Network: Achieved recognition as a leading network in North America with over 10,000 chargers deployed globally.
• Expanded Market Reach: Built partnerships with major clients, including Fortune 500 companies, municipalities, and utilities, driving adoption of sustainable EV solutions.
• Distribution Leadership: Established the largest distribution and reseller footprint in the U.S., enabling nationwide scalability.
• Global Growth: Expanded internationally with headquarters in Dubai and a logistics hub in Phoenix, positioning Loop as a global leader.
• Industry Recognition: Named to FastCompany’s 2021 Top 10 Most Innovative Joint Ventures and Inc. 5000’s Fastest Growing Companies.

Why It Matters

The success of Loop Global demonstrates the vision, expertise, and leadership of Encharge’s principals in transforming the EV charging landscape. By building Loop from scratch, the principals of Encharge gained unparalleled experience across every phase of EV infrastructure, from hardware and software development to large-scale portfolio planning, fundraising, and grant administration.

This foundation positions Encharge as a trusted partner with end-to-end expertise in driving EV adoption and delivering sustainable transportation solutions for municipalities, businesses, and communities worldwide.

At Encharge, we’re not just building infrastructure—we’re shaping the future of mobility.