Goal Zero has announced a strategic investment and technology development agreement with In-Q-Tel (IQT). IQT is a non-profit, strategic investor that identifies, adapts, and delivers innovative technology solutions to support the missions of the U.S Intelligence Community.

"We've championed a new approach to the way consumers charge their essential devices," said Joe Atkin, President and CEO of Goal Zero.

"Being able to develop those same, easy-to-use solutions for IQT's government customers will give us the opportunity to expand our reach to other relevant markets and continue our mission of powering the world."

Goal Zero has engineered an innovative approach to consumer power needs by utilizing the latest in solar and battery technology. They've taken solar panels off rooftops and eliminated the need for charge controllers and inverters required for traditional solar power systems.

Their scalable plug-and-play kits, some perfectly backpack-sized, are capable of charging anything from cellphones on a hike, to powering lights and a refrigerator during a power outage.

"Goal Zero has established a strong presence in the portable power market," said Syd Ulvick, Senior Vice President at IQT.

"The research and development that has allowed the company to make solar power scalable, versatile, and easy to use represents a valuable asset to our customers."

Goal Zero's solar kits have been tested and proven in some of the harshest environments possible. The company supports treks up Everest and expeditions to Antarctica, where dependable power is not just a convenience, but a life saver.

After Hurricane Sandy, Goal Zero donated nearly $600,000 worth of portable power kits to residents in New York and New Jersey who had been living without power for days, even weeks.