Goodleap

GoodLeap's story began in 2003, not with its current name, but as Paramount Equity Mortgage, founded by Hayes Barnard, Jason Walker, and Matt Dawson. Incorporated in California, the initial focus was on providing residential mortgage loans, starting in Sacramento Valley and eventually expanding nationwide. The entrepreneurial spirit of the founders didn't stop there; in 2006, they ventured into the insurance market with an auto and home insurance company, which was later sold to Brown and Brown after more than a decade of operation. A significant pivot towards sustainability began in 2009 with the establishment of Paramount Solar. This venture proved successful and was acquired by SolarCity (now Tesla Energy) in 2013 for approximately $120 million.

The company underwent a rebranding to Loanpal in 2017, sharpening its focus on financing for sustainable home improvements, particularly solar energy. This era marked a period of substantial growth and recognition as a key player in the solar loan market. By October 2020, Loanpal had funded over $4.5 billion in solar loans and held a dominant 41% share of the U.S. solar loan market. The evolution continued, and in June 2021, Loanpal transformed into GoodLeap, a name reflecting its commitment to solutions that are 'good for life, earth, and prosperity.' This change underscored the company's broader mission to empower a sustainable future through technology, offering best-in-class financing and software products. GoodLeap's platform facilitates flexible payment options for a wide array of sustainable home upgrades, including solar panels, battery storage, energy-efficient HVAC systems, smart home devices, and more. The company's journey is also deeply intertwined with philanthropy, notably through its support of GivePower, a nonprofit founded by Hayes Barnard, dedicated to providing clean water and energy to underserved communities globally. This commitment highlights a core tenet of GoodLeap's philosophy: connecting a world where everyone can live sustainably.