Question 1

What was the primary motivation behind David Belaga's search through the NASA patent database?

Accepted Answer

To identify a patent upon which he could build a new company.

Question 2

What specific NASA patent did David Belaga license for his new venture?

Accepted Answer

A patent for a rehydration beverage.

Question 3

Who was the original inventor of the rehydration beverage developed by NASA?

Accepted Answer

Dr. John E. Greenleaf

Question 4

What was the initial purpose of the NASA rehydration beverage?

Accepted Answer

To rehydrate astronauts suffering from dehydration upon re-entry.

Question 5

How long did David Belaga spend searching the NASA patent database before finding a suitable patent?

Accepted Answer

60 hours

Question 6

What was David Belaga's prior professional experience before starting his own company?

Accepted Answer

He worked in blue-chip companies like Pepsi, Hallmark, and Wyeth.

Question 7

What was the name of the company David Belaga incorporated to manufacture and distribute 'The Right Stuff'?

Accepted Answer

Wellness Brands Inc.

Question 8

How much of his personal funds did David Belaga budget to launch the brand?

Accepted Answer

$300,000

Question 9

What was Belaga's initial expectation for breaking even on the business?

Accepted Answer

Year 3

Question 10

What strategy did Belaga employ to acquire additional start-up funds after his personal investment?

Accepted Answer

Conducted a 'friends and family' fundraising round.

Question 11

How did Belaga structure his organization as the sole full-time employee?

Accepted Answer

He developed a virtual organization with a network of contracts to suppliers.

Question 12

What was a key consideration for pricing 'The Right Stuff'?

Accepted Answer

Researching the pricing of competitive hydration alternatives for athletes.

Question 13

What was a key ingredient in 'The Right Stuff' that NASA research indicated impeded electrolyte uptake?

Accepted Answer

Carbohydrates

Question 14

What was a notable requirement of the NASA technology licensing agreement regarding production?

Accepted Answer

Production had to be in the United States.

Question 15

What were the initial flavors offered for 'The Right Stuff'?

Accepted Answer

Unflavored, Citrus, Berry

Question 16

Which target market did Belaga find to be the most profitable?

Accepted Answer

Institutional markets (professional teams, universities, etc.)

Question 17

What was Belaga's initial focus for reaching individual athletes, which he later found unproductive?

Accepted Answer

Attending events for marathoners and triathletes.

Question 18

Which of these is NOT listed as a key role for a member of 'The Right Stuff's' board of advisors?

Accepted Answer

Expertise in financial market analysis.

Question 19

What was a primary reason Belaga avoided distributing to mainstream 'Big Box' retailers like Dick's and Sports Authority?

Accepted Answer

Most serious athletes do not shop for nutrition there.

The Right Stuff: From NASA Patent to Market

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