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San Diego-based company Hohm is bringing napping pods for business travelers and students who need a break from hectic work schedules. The pods aim to be in university campuses, airports, large corporate campuses, and other areas that are often associated with exhaustion.
“Sleep is just as important as food — it’s a basic human necessity,” said Hohm’s founder Nikolas Woods. “But when you need to sleep on the go, what are your options?”
Woods said he is in the process of raising $850,000 in startup capital, with $200,000 committed so far. He also put $100,000 of his own money as well as $50,000 from an angel investor to kickstart the company.
Users rent a pod on their phones and can enjoy a 43 square-foot soundproof bedroom complete with a twin bed, charging stations, and a mirror.
Woods was inspired by the idea after working for a medical supplies company that operated out of a coworking space and was surrounded by exhausted entrepreneurs.
Silicon Valley workers are known for hardly leaving their workplace. With employers offering every amenity you need, it is common for employees to sleep in parking lots. A company like Hohm could solve this issue.
Since 2016, Woods has been perfecting these portable steel pods and, in January, investors and students were able to demo the first completed pod in San Diego.
Now, the company has locked in the University of Arizona as its first customer. The school has four pods that can be rented at $10-12 an hour.
“We’re excited about this new way to support our students’ well being, especially during finals when sleep is so important for success,” said Neysha Aguilar, a spokesperson for the university. “Hohm sleeping pods will be a great place for students to recharge and keep their minds sharp.”
