Crown ElectroKinetics (CRKN) 10-Q2023 Q1 Quarterly report

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-Q

☒ QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the quarterly period ended March 31, 2023

OR

☐ TRANSITION REPORT UNDER SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the transition period from __________ to __________

Commission file number: 333-232426

Crown Electrokinetics Corp.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

1110 NE Circle Blvd., Corvallis, Oregon 97330

(Address of principal executive offices) (Zip Code)

(800) 674-3612

(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes ☒ No ☐

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically every Interactive Data File required to be submitted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§ 232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit such files). Yes ☒ No ☐

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, a smaller reporting company or an emerging growth company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer,” “smaller reporting company,” and “emerging growth company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.

If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 7(a)(2)(B) of the Securities Act. ☐

Indicate by check mark whether registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes ☐ No ☒

The number of shares of common stock, $0.0001 par value per share, outstanding as of May 22, 2023 was 50,713,135.

CROWN ELECTROKINETICS CORP.

CAUTIONARY NOTE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS AND INDUSTRY DATA

This Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q contains forward-looking statements which are made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”), and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”). These statements may be identified by such forward-looking terminology as “may,” “should,” “expects,” “intends,” “plans,” “anticipates,” “believes,” “estimates,” “predicts,” “potential,” “continue” or the negative of these terms or other comparable terminology. Our forward-looking statements are based on a series of expectations, assumptions, estimates and projections about our company, are not guarantees of future results or performance and involve substantial risks and uncertainty. We may not actually achieve the plans, intentions or expectations disclosed in these forward-looking statements. Actual results or events could differ materially from the plans, intentions and expectations disclosed in these forward-looking statements. Our business and our forward-looking statements involve substantial known and unknown risks and uncertainties.

All of our forward-looking statements are as of the date of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q only. In each case, actual results may differ materially from such forward-looking information. We can give no assurance that such expectations or forward-looking statements will prove to be correct. An occurrence of, or any material adverse change in, one or more of the risk factors or risks and uncertainties referred to in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q or included in our other public disclosures or our other periodic reports or other documents or filings filed with or furnished to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) could materially and adversely affect our business, prospects, financial condition and results of operations. Except as required by law, we do not undertake or plan to update or revise any such forward-looking statements to reflect actual results, changes in plans, assumptions, estimates or projections or other circumstances affecting such forward-looking statements occurring after the date of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, even if such results, changes or circumstances make it clear that any forward-looking information will not be realized. Any public statements or disclosures by us following this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q that modify or impact any of the forward-looking statements contained in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q will be deemed to modify or supersede such statements in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q.

PART I - FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Item 1. - Financial Statements.

CROWN ELECTROKINETICS CORP.

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets

(in thousands, except share and per share amounts)

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.

CROWN ELECTROKINETICS CORP.

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations

Three Months Ended March 31, 2023 and 2022

(Unaudited)

(in thousands, except share and per share amounts)

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.

CROWN ELECTROKINETICS CORP.

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Stockholders’ Equity

(Unaudited)

(in thousands, except share and per share amounts)

Three Months Ended March 31, 2023

Three Months Ended March 31, 2022

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.

CROWN ELECTROKINETICS CORP.

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

Three Months Ended March 31, 2023 and 2022

(Unaudited)

(in thousands)

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.

Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

(Unaudited)

Note 1 - Organization and Description of Business Operations

Crown Electrokinetics Corp. (the “Company”) was incorporated in the State of Delaware on April 20, 2015. Effective October 6, 2017, the Company’s name was changed to Crown Electrokinetics Corp. from 3D Nanocolor Corp. (“3D Nanocolor”).

On January 26, 2021, the Company completed its public offering, and its common stock began trading on the Nasdaq Capital Market (Nasdaq) under the symbol CRKN.

The Company is commercializing technology for smart or dynamic glass. The Company’s electrokinetic glass technology is an advancement on microfluidic technology that was originally developed by HP Inc.

On December 20, 2022, the Company incorporated Crown Fiber Optics Corp., a Delaware based entity, to own and operate its acquired business from the acquisition of Amerigen 7, LLC (“Amerigen 7”) in January 2023. Crown Fiber Optics Corp. is accounted for as a wholly- owned subsidiary of Crown Electrokinetics, Corp.

Preferred Stock

Subsequent to December 31, 2022, the Company filed the first amendment to its Series D preferred stock, which modifies the conversion price of the Series D preferred stock from $1.30 to $0.50 per share (See Note 12).

On February 1, 2023, the Company’s Board of Directors authorized 77,000 shares of Series E preferred stock with a par value of $0.0001 per share. Each share of Series E Preferred Stock is convertible into 1,000 shares of the Company’s common stock at the option of the holders (See Note 12).

Business Combination

On January 3, 2023, the Company acquired certain assets related to the construction of 5G fiber optics infrastructure and distributed antenna systems from Amerigen 7 (the “Asset Acquisition”), for cash consideration of approximately $0.65 million (See Note 4).

Reverse Stock Split

On December 22, 2022, the Company’s stockholders approved a reverse stock split of its common stock at a ratio of not more than 1-for-15, such ratio to be determined by the Company’s Board of Directors on or prior to December 22, 2023.

Note 2 - Liquidity and Financial Condition

The Company has incurred substantial operating losses since its inception and expects to continue to incur significant operating losses for the foreseeable future and may never become profitable. As reflected in the condensed consolidated financial statements, the Company had an accumulated deficit of approximately $90.3 million and negative working capital of approximately $6.15 million at March 31, 2023, a net loss of approximately $2.3 million, and approximately $4.6 million of net cash used in operating activities for the three months ended March 31, 2023. The Company expects to continue to incur ongoing administrative and other expenses, including public company expenses.

The accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared on a going concern basis, which contemplates the realization of assets and satisfaction of liabilities in the normal course of business. The condensed consolidated financial statements do not include any adjustments relating to the recoverability and classification of recorded asset amounts or the amounts and classification of liabilities that might result from the outcome of this uncertainty.

The Company will seek to obtain additional capital through the sale of debt or equity financings or other arrangements to fund operations including through its existing At-The-Market offering, $10 million Standing Letter of Credit (“SLOC”), and $100 million Line of Credit (see below); however, there can be no assurance that the Company will be able to raise needed capital under acceptable terms, if at all. The sale of additional equity may dilute existing stockholders and newly issued shares may contain senior rights and preferences compared to currently outstanding shares of common stock. Issued debt securities may contain covenants and limit the Company’s ability to pay dividends or make other distributions to stockholders. If the Company is unable to obtain such additional financing, future operations would need to be scaled back or discontinued. Due to the uncertainty in the Company’s ability to raise capital, management believes that there is substantial doubt in the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern for twelve months from the issuance of these condensed consolidated financial statements.

At-the-Market Offerings

The Company entered into a Sales Agreement with A.G.P./Alliance Global Partners (the “Sales Agents”) dated March 30, 2022 (the “Sales Agreement”), pursuant to which the Company may, from time to time, sell up to $5 million in shares (the “Placement Shares”) of the Company’s common stock through the Sales Agents, acting as the Company’s sales agent and/or principal, in a continuous at-the-market offering (the “ATM Offering”). The Company will pay the Sales Agents a commission of up to 3.0% of the aggregate gross proceeds the Company receives from all sales of the Company’s common stock under the Sales Agreement. The Placement Shares will be offered and sold pursuant to the Company’s shelf registration statement on Form S-3 (Registration No. 333- 262122) and the related base prospectus included in the registration statement, as supplemented by the prospectus supplement dated March 30, 2022.

On October 5, 2022, the Company and the Sales Agents filed the first amendment to the Sales Agreement (the “First Amendment to the Sales Agreement”). Pursuant to the First Amendment to the Sales Agreement, the Company may from time to time, sell up to $3.5 million in Placement Shares of the Company’s common stock through the Sales Agents in a continuous At-the-Market Offering (the Amended ATM Offering”). According to the First Amendment to the Sales Agreement, the Company will pay the Sales Agents a commission of up to 3.0% of the aggregate gross proceeds the Company receives from all sales of its common stock in the Amended ATM Offering.

During the three months ended March 31, 2023, the Company received net proceeds on sales of 12,700,000 shares of common stock under the Sales Agreement of approximately $2.1 million (after deducting $0.1 million in commissions and expenses) at a weighted average price of $0.173 per share.

Senior Secured Notes

On January 3, 2023, the Company received net proceeds of $1.0 million from the issuance of senior secured notes with a principal balance of $1.2 million and a debt discount of $0.2 million. The notes are non-interest bearing and matured on April 3, 2023 and subsequently were extended to May 23, 2023. In connection with the senior secured notes, the Company issued 2.5 million warrants to purchase shares of the Company’s common stock at an exercise price of $0.32 per share.

Line of Credit

On February 2, 2023, the Company entered into a line of credit agreement (the “Line of Credit”) securing a line of credit up to $100.0 million. The Line of Credit will be used to fund expenses related to the fulfillment of contracts with customers of the Company’s wholly-owned subsidiary, Crown Fiber Optics Corporation (See Note 1). The Line of Credit expires February 2, 2024, unless the Line of Credit is extended for one or two additional years in accordance with its terms. On February 2, 2023, the Company drew down $2.0 million under the Line of Credit. Upon drawing down on the Line of Credit, the Company issued a Secured Promissory Note (the “2023 Note”) which is due and payable 60 days from the issuance date (See Note 11).

As consideration for entering into the Line of Credit, the Company issued 5,000 shares of Series E preferred stock, and issued a warrant to purchase 45,000 shares of the Company’s Series E preferred stock. Additionally, 5,000 shares of Series E preferred stock will be issued on the first and second anniversary of the effective date of the Line of Credit. However, if the Company does not elect to extend the Line of Credit for an additional one or two years, the additional 5,000 shares of Series E preferred stock will be issued immediately.

The warrant to purchase 45,000 shares of the Company’s Series E preferred stock is exercisable for five years at an exercise price of $0.50 per share multiplied by 1,000, and subject to adjustment under certain circumstances described in the warrant.

Warrants

During the three months ended March 31, 2023, the Company received net proceeds of approximately $2.06 million in connection with the exercise of 6,555,095 warrants (See Note 13).

Risks and Uncertainties

The Company is currently operating in a period of economic uncertainty and capital markets disruption, which has been significantly impacted by geopolitical instability due to the ongoing military conflict between Russia and Ukraine. The Company’s financial condition and results of operations may be materially adversely affected by any negative impact on the global economy and capital markets resulting from the conflict in Ukraine or any other geopolitical tensions.

The condensed consolidated financial statements do not include any adjustments that might result from the outcome of this uncertainty.

Note 3 - Significant Accounting Policies

Basis of Presentation

The Company’s condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”) and include all adjustments necessary for the fair presentation of the Company’s financial position for the periods presented. The condensed consolidated results of operations for the three months ended March 31, 2023 are not necessarily indicative of the results for the full year or the results for any future periods. These condensed consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the audited financial statements and related notes for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2022 included in the Company’s Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) on March 31, 2023.

Use of Estimates

The preparation of condensed financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the condensed financial statements and the reported amounts of expenses during the reporting period. The most significant estimates in the Company’s condensed consolidated financial statements relate to the valuation of its business combination, senior secured convertible notes and warrants, and equity based awards. These estimates and assumptions are based on current facts, historical experience and various other factors believed to be reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying values of assets and liabilities and the recording of expenses that are not readily apparent from other sources. Actual results may differ materially and adversely from these estimates. To the extent there are material differences between the estimates and actual results, the Company’s future results of operations will be affected.

Significant Accounting Policies

For a detailed discussion about the Company’s significant accounting policies, see the Company’s December 31, 2022 financial statements included in its 2022 Annual Report.

Revenue Recognition

The Company adopted the new revenue standard, ASC 606, on March 31, 2019 using the full retrospective approach. The adoption did not have an effect on 2021 or 2020 revenue recognition or a cumulative effect on opening equity, as the timing and measurement of revenue recognition is materially the same as under ASC 605. The core principle of the new revenue standard is that a company should recognize revenue to depict the transfer of promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the company expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. The following five steps are applied to achieve that core principle:

For contracts where the period between when the Company transfers a promised good or service to the customer and when the customer pays is one year or less, the Company has elected the practical expedient to not adjust the promised amount of consideration for the effects of a significant financing component.

The Company’s performance obligation is to provide fiber splicing services as required based on short-term work orders as work is assigned by the Customer. The Company is required to complete the description of work described in the work order and test the service provided prior to any recognition of revenue and invoicing. The short-term work orders are for very specific performance obligations which are performed from start to finish within two weeks or less, and more often, within one week. The Company is required to adhere to the rules and regulations that are outlined in the Agreement between the Company and the Customer.

Cost for the work performed is outlined in the individual work orders based on the detailed description of work to be performed. All of the revenue is recognized immediately upon completion of the work in each work order. A 5% retainage will be withheld by the Customer upon payment of invoices and will be paid to the Company within one year after termination of the contract. The retainage can be utilized by Customer for any claims that may arise after work is completed up through one year after completion.

Revenue recognized during the three months ended March 31, 2023 was generated by the Company’s wholly-owned subsidiary, Crown Fiber Optics Corporation, and was immaterial. No revenue was recognized by the Company during the three months ended March 31, 2022.

Financial Instruments – Credit Losses

Measurements of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments (“ASC 326”), which replaces the existing incurred loss model with a current expected credit loss (“CECL”) model that requires consideration of a broader range of reasonable and supportable information to inform credit loss estimates. The Company would be required to use a forward-looking CECL model for accounts receivables, guarantees and other financial instruments. The Company adopted ASC 326 on January 1, 2023 and ASC 326 did not have a material impact on its financial statements.

Segment and Reporting Unit Information

Operating segments are defined as components of an entity for which discrete financial information is available that is regularly reviewed by the Chief Operating Decision Maker (“CODM”) in deciding how to allocate resources to an individual segment and in assessing performance. The Company’s Chief Executive Officer is determined to be the CODM. On January 3, 2023 the Company acquired Crown Fiber Optics, Corp. (see Note 1) and is currently in the process of integrating this new business line including identifying leadership, and aligning management reporting and allocation methodologies. The Company is assessing its current segment structure in conjunction with the integration efforts.

Business Combinations

The Company accounts for business combinations using the guidance provided by Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) 805, Business Combinations. ASC 805 requires the Company to use the acquisition method of accounting by recognizing the identifiable tangible and intangible assets acquired and liabilities assumed, and any non-controlling interest in the acquired business, measured at their acquisition date fair values. Goodwill as of the acquisition date is measured as the excess of consideration transferred over the aforementioned amounts.

Accounting for business combinations requires management to make significant estimates and assumptions, especially at the acquisition date, including estimates for intangible assets. Although the Company believes the assumptions and estimates made have been reasonable and appropriate, they are based in part on historical experience and information obtained from management of the acquired companies and are inherently uncertain. Critical estimates in valuing certain intangible assets we have acquired include future expected cash flows from customer contracts. Unanticipated events and circumstances may occur that may affect the accuracy or validity of such assumptions, estimates, or actual results. The initial purchase price may be adjusted as needed per the terms of the arrangement agreement. The allocation of purchase price, including any fair value the assets acquired and liabilities assumed as of the acquisition date has not been completed.

Acquisition-related expenses are recognized separately from the business combination and are expensed as incurred.

Deferred Debt Issuance Costs

The Company accounts for debt issuance costs related to its Line of Credit as a deferred asset which is amortized over the life of the Line of Credit. Since the Company has elected the fair value option for its convertible notes (see below), upon a draw down, a portion of the deferred asset balance will be amortized to other expense. On the issuance date of the Company’s Line of Credit, since no loan amounts are drawn down, the cost related to issuance of the Series E preferred shares and the warrant to purchase Series E preferred shares are recorded as a deferred asset.

Goodwill

The Company performs a goodwill impairment analysis on October 1^st of each year.  When conducting its annual goodwill impairment assessment, the Company initially performs a qualitative evaluation to determine if it is more likely than not that the fair value of its reporting unit is less than its carrying amount as a basis for determining whether it is necessary to perform a two-step goodwill impairment test.  

Convertible Notes

In accordance with Accounting Standards Codification 825, Financial Instruments (“ASC 825”), the Company has elected the fair value option for recognition of its convertible notes. In accordance with ASC 825, the Company recognizes these notes at fair value with changes in fair value recognized in the statements of operations. The fair value option may be applied instrument by instrument, but it is irrevocable. As a result of applying the fair value option, direct costs and fees related to the convertible notes were recognized in other expense. The Company will include the interest expense as a component of the notes fair value.

Warrants

The Company accounted for certain common stock warrants outstanding as a liability at fair value and adjusted the instruments to fair value at each reporting period. This liability is subject to re-measurement at each balance sheet date until exercised, and any change in fair value is recognized in the Company’s statements of operations. The fair value of the warrants issued by the Company have been estimated using the Black Scholes Methodology.

SLOC

The Company accounts for its warrants related to the SLOC in accordance with ASC 815-40, Contracts in Entity’s Own Equity. The warrants to purchase the Company’s common stock meet the criteria in ASC 815-40 to be classified within stockholders’ equity, and therefore, the warrants are not revalued after issuance. The Company uses a Black-Scholes model to value the warrants at issuance.

Under the guidance of ASU 2015-15, Presentation and Subsequent Measurement of Debt Issuance Costs Associated with Line-of-Credit Arrangements, the Company concluded the warrants should be recorded as a deferred asset. At issuance and as of March 31, 2023, since no loan amounts were drawn down, the SLOC warrant is recorded as a deferred asset at fair value and will be amortized over the life of the SLOC. Upon a draw down, the remaining balance of the deferred asset would be reclassified to debt discount and amortized under the effective interest method over the one-year term of the loan.

Purchase Order Warrants

The Company accounts for its warrants issued in connection with purchase orders in accordance with ASC 606, Revenue Recognition. With respect to the warrant, the Company accounts for it as consideration payable to a customer under ASC 606, as it relates to the future purchase of the Company’s Smart Window Inserts™. Pursuant to ASC 718 Compensation - Stock Compensation (“ASC 718”), the Company measured the fair value of the warrant using the Black-Scholes valuation model on the issuance date, with the value being recognized as a prepaid asset up to the recoverable value represented by the value of the contract.

Net Loss per Share

ASC 260, Earnings Per Share, requires dual presentation of basic and diluted earnings per share (“EPS”) with a reconciliation of the numerator and denominator of the basic EPS computation to the numerator and denominator of the diluted EPS computation. Basic EPS excludes dilution. Diluted EPS reflects the potential dilution that could occur if securities or other contracts to issue common stock were exercised or converted into common stock or resulted in the issuance of common stock that then shared in the earnings of the entity.

Basic net loss per share of common stock excludes dilution and is computed by dividing net loss by the weighted average number of shares of common stock outstanding during the period. Diluted net loss per share of common stock reflects the potential dilution that could occur if securities or other contracts to issue common stock were exercised or converted into common stock or resulted in the issuance of common stock that then shared in the earnings of the entity unless inclusion of such shares would be anti-dilutive.

Securities that could potentially dilute loss per share in the future that were not included in the computation of diluted loss per share at March 31, 2023 and 2022 are as follows:

Emerging Growth Company

The Company is considered to be an “emerging growth company” as defined in the Jumpstart Our Business Startups Act of 2012, as amended (JOBS Act). The JOBS Act provides that an emerging growth company can take advantage of an extended transition period for complying with new or revised accounting standards. Thus, an emerging growth company can delay the adoption of certain accounting standards until those standards would otherwise apply to private companies. The Company has elected to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934.

Note 4 – Acquisitions

On January 3, 2023, the Company completed its Asset Acquisition as described in Note 1. In accordance with the terms of the Asset Acquisition the Company paid cash consideration of approximately $0.65 million. The Asset Acquisition included approximately 12 employees, customer contracts, and certain operating liabilities. The Company accounted for the Asset Acquisition as a business combination (See Note 3). The initial purchase price may be adjusted as needed per the terms of the agreement. The allocation of purchase price, including any fair value the assets acquired and liabilities assumed as of the acquisition date has not been completed. The measurement period for the Asset Acquisition will be up to one year from the acquisition date.

The following table summarizes the allocation of the purchase price to the assets acquired and liabilities assumed for the Amerigen 7 acquisition (in thousands):

The Company engaged an independent valuation specialist to conduct a valuation analysis of the identifiable intangible assets acquired by the Company with the objective of estimating the fair value of such assets as of January 3, 2023. The valuation specialist utilized the Income Approach, specifically the Multi-Period Excess Earnings Method, to value the existing customer relationship.

Note 5 - Prepaid and Other Current Assets

Prepaid and other current assets consist of the following (in thousands):

Note 6 - Property & Equipment, Net

Property and equipment, net, consists of the following (in thousands):

During the three months ended March 31, 2023, the Company recorded $0.5 million of equipment and $0.2 million of vehicles in connection with its acquisition of Amerigen 7 (See Note 4).

Depreciation expense for the three months ended March 31, 2023 and 2022 was $128,000 and $54,000, respectively.

Note 7 - Intangible Assets, Net

Intangible assets, net, consists of the following (in thousands):

During the three months ended March 31, 2023, the Company recorded $0.2 million of customer relationships in connection with its acquisition of Amerigen 7 (See Note 4).

The following table represents the total estimated amortization of intangible assets for the five succeeding years and thereafter as of March 31, 2023 (in thousands):

For the three months ended March 31, 2023 and 2022, amortization expense was approximately $54,000 and $53,000, respectively.

Note 8 – Deferred Debt Issuance Costs

Deferred debt issuance costs consist of the following (in thousands):

Line of Credit

On February 2, 2023, the Company entered into its Line of Credit and recorded deferred debt issuance costs of approximately $9.9 million (See Note 3). During the three months ended March 31, 2023, the Company recognized amortization expense of approximately of $1.6 million in connection with the Line of Credit, which is recorded as interest expense on the accompanying condensed consolidated statement of operations. During the three months ended March 31, 2023, in connection with the $2.0 million draw down and issuance of the convertible promissory note, the Company recognized amortization expense of approximately $0.2 million, which is recorded as other expense on the accompanying condensed consolidated statement of operations (See Note 3).

SLOC

For the three months ended March 31, 2023 and 2022, in connection with its SLOC, the Company recognized amortization expense of approximately $41,000 and $73,000, respectively, which is recorded as other expense on the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of operations.

Note 9 - Fair Value Measurements

The following table classifies the Company’s liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis into the fair value hierarchy as of March 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022:

For the three months ended March 31, 2023 there was a change of approximately $5.5 million in Level 3 liabilities measured at fair value.

The fair value of the convertible notes may change significantly as additional data is obtained, impacting the Company’s assumptions used to estimate the fair value of the liabilities. In evaluating this information, considerable judgment is required to interpret the data used to develop the assumptions and estimates. The estimates of fair value may not be indicative of the amounts that could be realized in a current market exchange. Accordingly, the use of different market assumptions and/or different valuation techniques may have a material effect on the estimated fair value amounts, and such changes could materially impact the Company’s results of operations in future periods.

The following table presents changes in Level 3 liabilities measured at fair value for the three months ended March 31, 2023. Unobservable inputs were used to determine the fair value of positions that the Company has classified within the Level 3 category. Unrealized gains and losses associated with liabilities within the Level 3 category include changes in fair value that were attributable to unobservable (e.g., changes in unobservable long-dated volatilities) inputs.

Convertible Notes

During the year ended December 31, 2022, the Company issued convertible promissory notes (the “2022 Notes”). The fair value of the Notes on the issuance dates, and as of March 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022 were estimated using a Monte Carlo simulation to capture the path dependencies intrinsic to their terms. The significant unobservable inputs used in the fair value measurement of the Company’s convertible notes are the common stock price, volatility, and risk-free interest rates. Significant changes in these inputs may result in significantly lower or higher fair value measurement. The Company elected the fair value option when recording its 2022 Notes and the 2022 Notes were classified as liabilities and measured at fair value on the issuance date, with changes in fair value recognized as other income (expense) on the statements of operations and disclosed in the condensed consolidated financial statements.

During the three months ended March 31, 2023, two noteholders converted a portion of their 2022 Notes into 1,887,919 shares of the Company’s commons stock (See Note 11). The fair value of the converted notes totaled $0.5 million.

February Waiver Agreement

On February 28, 2023, the Company entered into waiver agreements with holders of the 2022 Notes (See Note 11). In connection with this waiver agreement, the 2022 Notes were revalued as of the amendment date.

March Waiver Agreement

On March 24, 2023, the Company entered into the second waiver agreements with holders of the 2022 Notes (See Note 11). A select number of holders elected to increase the principal balance of their notes. The Company revalued the respective notes on the date prior to the amendment date, and again on the amendment date. The change in fair value related to the amendment of these 2022 Notes was approximately $0.4 million.

As of March 31, 2023, the fair value of the 2022 Notes was approximately $1.2 million.

Line of Credit

On February 3, 2023 the Company drew down $2.0 million from the Line of Credit and in accordance with the terms of the agreement issued the 2023 Note of $2.0 million. The 2023 Note had fair value at issuance of $1.9 million and the Company recorded a gain on issuance of approximately $0.1 million, which is included in other income (expense) on the accompanying condensed statement of operations. As of March 31, 2023, the fair value of the 2023 Note was approximately $2.0 million.

Warrants

Senior Secured Notes

In connection with the issuance of its senior secured notes on January 3, 2023 (See Note 11), the Company issued 2,500,000 warrants to purchase shares of the Company’s common stock. The warrants had a fair value at issuance of $157,000, and as of March 31, 2023 have a fair value of $92,000.

Line of Credit

On February 2, 2023, in connection with the issuance of its Line of Credit, the Company issued 45,000 warrants to purchase shares of its Series E preferred stock (See Note 13). The warrants had a fair value at issuance of approximately $5.6 million, and as of March 31, 2023 have a fair value of approximately $1.1 million.

Warrant Inducement and Exercise Agreement

During the year ended December 31, 2022, in connection with the 2022 Notes, the Company issued 21,759,402 warrants to purchase shares of the Company’s common stock.

During the three months ended March 31, 2023, in connection with its 2022 Notes, the Company entered into a warrant inducement and exercise agreement with certain holders. Under the terms of the agreement, the holders exercised 6,405,844 warrants with a fair value of approximately $0.76 million and the Company issued 6,405,844 new warrants to purchase shares of its common stock with a fair value of $1.26 million. The Company recognized a loss on extinguishment of the warrants of approximately $0.5 million which is included in other income (expense) on the accompanying condensed statement of operations..

February Waiver Agreement

As consideration for the February waiver agreement, the Company issued 5,813,414 warrants to purchase shares of the Company’s common stock with a fair value of $0.7 million on issuance date.

As of March 31, 2023, there are 27,572,816 warrants outstanding issued in connection with the 2022 Notes, with a fair value of approximately $1.1 million.

The warrants were classified as liabilities and measured at fair value on the grant date, with changes in fair value recognized as other income (expense) on the statements of operations and disclosed in the condensed consolidated financial statements.

A summary of significant unobservable inputs (Level 3 inputs) used in measuring warrants on the issuance dates and as of March 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022 is as follows:

Significant changes in the expected price volatility and expected term would result in significantly lower or higher fair value measurement of the warrants, respectively.

Note 10 - Accrued Expenses

As of March 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022, the Company’s accrued expenses consisted of the following (in thousands):

Note 11 - Notes Payable

Convertible Notes

2022 Notes

On October 19, 2022, the Company issued its 2022 Notes with a principal balance of approximately $5.4 million, and warrants to purchase 21,749,402 shares of the Company’s common stock for net proceeds of $3.5 million. The 2022 Notes were issued with a conversion price at a 54% premium to the most recent closing price, an original issue discount (“OID”) of 35%, do not bear interest, and mature upon the earlier of twelve months from the date of issuance or the closing of a change of control transaction (as defined in the 2022 Notes). The 2022 Notes are convertible into shares of the Company’s common stock at a conversion price of $0.49 per share, subject to adjustment under certain circumstances described in the notes. The 2022 Notes are secured by all of the Company’s assets (subject to exceptions for certain strategic transactions).The warrants have an exercise price of $0.32 per share and expire five years from the issuance date (subject to adjustment under certain circumstances described in the warrants).

During the three months ended March 31, 2023, in connection with its 2022 Notes, the Company entered into a warrant inducement and exercise agreement with certain holders of the 2022 Notes (See Notes 7 and 13).

On February 28, 2023, the Company entered into waiver agreements with holders of the 2022 Notes which extended the maturity date of the 2022 Notes from October 19, 2023 to April 18, 2024. As consideration for this agreement, the Company issued 5,813,414 warrants to purchase shares of the Company’s common stock (See Note 7 and 13).

On March 24, 2023, the Company entered into the waiver agreements with holders of the 2022 Notes to eliminate the minimum pricing covenant as it relates to Company's At-The-Market facility. As consideration for this agreement, the Company provided the holders with two options to choose from i) to take an additional 5% OID on their October note principal or ii) pending shareholder approval, to be issued shares of common stock with a value equal to the 5% OID, and to issue total shares of 1,903,429 as converted using the Nasdaq minimum price of $0.157. During the three months ended March 31, 2023, six of the note holders elected option i), and the Company increased the respective principal balance of the notes by approximately $0.15 million. The remaining noteholders elected option ii), and as of the date of this report, no shares of common stock have been issued. 

During the three months ended March 31, 2023, two noteholders converted a portion of their 2022 Notes into 1,887,919 shares of the Company’s commons stock (See Note 12).

2023 Note

On February 3, 2023, upon drawing down on the Line of Credit, the Company issued its 2023 Note totaling $2.0 million, which is due and payable 60 days from the issuance date. The 2023 Note is non-interest bearing and secured by the Company’s assets. The 2023 Note issued with the initial $2.0 million drawdown is convertible into shares of the Company’s common stock, at a conversion price per share of $0.50 per share, subject to adjustment under certain circumstances described in the 2023 Note. Notes evidencing future withdrawals, if any, will be convertible into common stock only upon the declaration of an event of default under such promissory note. As of the date of this report, the Company has entered into agreements extending maturity of the 2023 Note out to May 31^st, 2023. As consideration the Company has agreed to issue the note holder with 4 thousand Series E preferred stock and 2 million shares of common stock. Both of these issuances are pending shareholder approval.

As of March 31, 2023, the fair value of the 2022 Notes and the 2023 Notes was approximately $3.2 million. During the three months ended March 31, 2023, the Company recorded a change in fair value of the 2022 Notes and the 2023 Notes totaling $0.1 million.

Senior Secured Notes

On January 3, 2023, the Company issued senior secured notes with a principal balance of approximately $1.2 million and warrants to purchase 2,500,000 shares of the Company’s common stock for net proceeds of $1.0 million. The senior secured notes were issued with an original issue discount of 16.7%, do not bear interest, and mature three months from the date of issuance (unless extended pursuant to the terms of the notes). The warrants are exercisable for five years at an exercise price of $0.322, subject to adjustment under certain circumstances described in the warrants. As of the date of this report, the Company has entered into agreements extending maturity of the Senior Secured Notes out to May 23^rd, 2023 in return for the issuance of 4,710,000 shares of common stock split pro-rata across the holders. This issuance is pending shareholder approval.

The senior secured notes and warrants were not registered under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”) or the securities laws of any state and were offered and sold in reliance upon the exemption from registration afforded by Section 4(a)(2) under the Securities Act and Regulation D promulgated thereunder and corresponding provisions of state securities laws, which exempt transactions by an issuer not involving any public offering. The Investors are “accredited investors” as such term is defined in Regulation D promulgated under the Securities Act.

Note 12 - Stockholders’ Equity

Preferred Stock

As of March 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022, there were 50,000,000 authorized shares of the Company’s preferred stock, par value $0.0001.

Series A Preferred Sock

As of March 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022, 251 shares of Series A preferred stock are issued and outstanding.

Series B Preferred Stock

As of March 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022, 1,443 shares of Series B preferred stock are issued and outstanding.

Series C Preferred Stock

As of March 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022, 500,756 shares of Series C preferred stock are issued and outstanding.

Series D Preferred Stock

On July 8, 2022, the Company’s Board of Directors authorized 7,000 shares of Series D preferred stock with a par value of $0.0001 per share. Each preferred share of Series D preferred stock has a stated valued of $1,000 per share, is convertible into shares of the Company’s common stock at an initial conversion price of $1.30 per share, and is entitled to a dividend of 12% per annum. The cumulative dividends shall be paid in common stock based on the conversion price in effect on the applicable conversion date. All accrued but unpaid dividends on shares of Series D preferred stock shall increase the stated value of such shares. The Company may redeem all, but not less than all, of the Series D preferred stock for cash, at a price per share of Series D preferred stock equal to 125% of the stated value. The Series D preferred stock has no voting rights.

In July 2022, the Company issued 1,058 shares of Series D preferred stock for approximately $1.1 million and as of March 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022, 1,058 shares of Series D preferred stock are issued and outstanding.

In connection with the issuance of the 1,058 shares of Series D preferred stock, the Company issued 814,102 equity-classified warrants to purchase shares of the Company’s common stock with an exercise price of $1.30 per share. The proceeds from the Series D preferred stock were allocated between the warrants and the Series D preferred stock based on their relative fair values.

The Company entered into a Registration Rights Agreement (“RRA”) with the holders of the Series D preferred stock, whereby the Company was to use its best efforts to file a registration statement registering the resale of the shares of common stock issuable upon conversion of the Series D preferred stock and upon exercise of the warrants within thirty (30) calendar days following the closing of the Series D preferred stock offering. The Company was to use its best efforts to have the registration statement declared “effective” within ninety (90) calendar days from closing, or one hundred and twenty (120) from closing in the event the registration statement is reviewed by the SEC. If the Company fails to meet these requirements, the RRA states that the Company shall pay to each holder an amount in cash, as partial liquidated damages and not as a penalty, equal to the product of 1.0% multiplied by the aggregate subscription amount paid by such holder pursuant to the purchase agreement, up to an aggregate of 10% of the aggregate subscription amount paid by such holder pursuant to the purchase agreement for all such liquidated damages.

Using the guidance provided by ASC 825-20 Financial Instruments, the Company determined that the RRA should be accounted for as a separate unit of account from the Series D preferred stock. Accordingly, under ASC 825-20, a financial instrument that is both within the scope of ASC 825-20 and subject to a registration payment arrangement shall be recognized and measured in accordance with ASC 825-20 without regard to the contingent obligation to transfer consideration pursuant to the registration payment arrangement.

The RRA called for the Company to file a registration statement by August 25, 2022 and declare it effective within 90 days of July 26, 2022. The Company filed its registration statement on November 17, 2022, and the holders of the Series D preferred stock waived the related registration rights penalty of approximately $2,400.

The Series D preferred stock and warrants sold were not registered under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”) or the securities laws of any state and were offered and sold in reliance on the exemption from registration afforded by Section 4(a)(2) under the Securities Act and Regulation D promulgated thereunder and corresponding provisions of state securities laws, which exempt transactions by an issuer not involving any public offering. The holders of Series D preferred stock are “accredited investors” as such term is defined in Regulation D promulgated under the Securities Act.

During the three months ended March 31, 2023, the Company filed the first amendment to its Series D preferred stock, which modifies the conversion price of the Series D preferred stock from $1.30 to $0.50 per share. The modification increased the fair value of the Series D preferred stock by approximately $6,000, which the Company recorded as a deemed dividend.

Series E Preferred Stock

On February 1, 2023, the Company’s Board of Directors authorized 77,000 shares of Series E preferred stock with a par value of $0.0001 per share, in connection with its 2023 Line of Credit. Each share of Series E Preferred Stock is convertible into 1,000 shares of the Company’s common stock at the option of the holders. The holders of the Series E preferred stock shall receive dividends on an as converted basis together with the holders of the Company’ common stock. The Series E preferred stock has no voting rights and does not have a preference upon any liquidation, dissolution or winding-up of the Company.

Holders of Series E preferred stock are prohibited from converting shares of Series E preferred stock into shares of common stock if, as a result of such conversion, such holder, together with its affiliates, would beneficially own more than a specified percentage (to be initially set at 4.99% and thereafter adjusted by the holder to a number between 4.99% and 9.99%) of the total number of shares of common stock issued and outstanding immediately after giving effect to such conversion. In addition, in the event a conversion of Series E preferred stock would result in the holder owning more than 19.99% of the Company’s outstanding shares of common stock, the number of shares of common stock that may be issued upon such conversion of Series E preferred stock, shall be limited to 19.99% of the Company’s outstanding shares of common stock on that date, unless stockholder approval is obtained by the Company to issue a number of shares of common stock exceeding the limit.

On February 2, 2023, in connection with its Line of Credit, the Company issued 5,000 shares of Series E Preferred Stock as a commitment fee with a fair value of $1.45 million. In addition, the Company agreed to issue an additional 5,000 shares of Series E preferred stock on both the first and second anniversary date of the Line of Credit, or 10,000 shares on the first anniversary, if the Company does not elect to extend the maturity date of the Line of Credit. The fair value of the additional 10,000 shares of Series E preferred stock on the issuance date totaled $2.9 million. The Company recorded the total fair value of $4.35 million as additional paid-in capital with the offsetting increase to deferred debt issuance costs. The deferred debt issuance costs will be amortized over the term of the Line of Credit.

As of March 31, 2023, 5,000 shares of Series E preferred stock are issued and outstanding. There were no shares of Series E preferred stock issued and outstanding as of December 31, 2022.

Common Stock

Change in Authorized Shares

On December 22, 2022, the Company’s Board of Directors approved increasing the Company’s authorized shares of common stock from 200,000,000 to 800,000,000 shares.

Reverse Stock Split

On December 22, 2022, the Company’s stockholders approved a reverse stock split of its common stock at a ratio of not more than 1-for-15, such ratio to be determined by the Company’s Board of Directors on or prior to December 22, 2023.

Warrant Exercises

During the three months ended March 31, 2023, the Company issued 6,55,095 shares of its common stock in connection with the exercise of 6,405,844 warrants, receiving net proceeds of approximately $2.06 million at a weighted average price of $0.32 per share.

During the three months ended March 31, 2023, the Company issued 149,251 shares of its common stock in connection with the exercise of 166,667 penny warrants.

Notes

During the three months ended March 31, 2023, the Company issued 1,887,919 shares of its common stock with a fair value of approximately $0.5 million in connection with the conversion of a portion of its 2022 Notes (See Note 11).

ATM Offering

As of March 31, 2023, the Company has received net proceeds on sales of 12,700,000 shares of common stock under its ATM Offering (See Note 2) of approximately $2.1 million (after deducting $0.1 million in commissions and expenses) at a weighted average price of $0.173 per share.

Consulting

During the three months ended March 31, 2023, the Company issued 1,800,000 shares of its common stock with a fair value of approximately $0.6 million as compensation for consulting services.

Restricted Stock

During the three months ended March 31, 2023, the Company issued 500,000 shares of its common stock in connection with vested restricted stock units.

Public Offering

On July 19, 2022, the Company entered into an underwriting agreement relating to the Company’s public offering of its common stock, par value $0.0001 per share. The Company agreed to sell 1,250,000 shares of its common stock to the underwriters, at a purchase price per share of $0.744 (the offering price to the public of $0.80 per share minus the underwriters’ discount), pursuant to the Company’s registration statement on Form S-3 (File No. 333-262122), under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. The Company has also granted to the underwriters a 30-day option to purchase up to 187,500 additional shares of common stock to cover over-allotments. On July 22, 2022, the Company received net proceeds of $855,000, net of underwriter fees and commissions of approximately $70,000, and offering costs of $75,000.

In connection with the Company’s public offering, the Company issued a warrant to the underwriters to purchase 62,500 shares of its common stock. The warrant may be exercised beginning on the date that is 180 days after July 22, 2022 until July 19, 2027. The exercise price of the warrant is $0.80 per share.

Note 13 - Stock-Based Compensation, Stock Options, Restricted Stock Units and Warrants:

On December 22, 2022, the Company adopted its 2022 Long-Term Incentive Plan (the “2022 Plan”). Under the 2022 Plan, there are 4,200,000 shares of the Company’s common stock available for issuance and the 2022 Plan has a termination date of October 31, 2032.

The available shares in the 2022 Plan will automatically increase on the first trading day in January of each calendar year during the term of 2022 Plan, commencing with January 2023, by such number of shares of common stock as are necessary so that the total number of shares reserved for issuance under the 2022 Plan shall be equal to 19.9% of the total number of outstanding shares of common stock, determined on a fully diluted basis as of the applicable trading date (the “Stipulated Percentage”); (b) our Board of Directors may act prior to January 1st of a given calendar year to provide that (i) there will be no such automatic annual increase in the number of shares reserved for issuance under the 2022 Plan or (ii) the increase in the number of shares for such calendar year will be a lesser number of shares than necessary to maintain the Stipulated Percentage of shares reserved for issuance under the 2022 Plan; and (c) unless an increase in shares reserved for issuance under the 2022 Plan in excess of the Initial Share Limit has been approved by our shareholders, the maximum number of shares of common stock that may be delivered pursuant to incentive stock options shall not exceed the Initial Share Limit or, if greater, the number of shares of common stock subsequently approved by the requisite vote of our shareholders entitled to vote thereon.

On December 16, 2020, the Company adopted its 2020 Long-Term Incentive Plan (the “2020 Plan”). Under the 2020 Plan, there are 5,333,333 shares of the Company’s common stock available for issuance and the 2020 Plan has a term of 10 years. The available shares in the 2020 Plan will automatically increase on the first trading day in January of each calendar year during the term of this Plan, commencing with January 2021, by an amount equal to the lesser of (i) five percent (5%) of the total number of shares of common stock issued and outstanding on December 31 of the immediately preceding calendar year, (ii) 1,000,000 shares of common stock or (iii) such number of shares of common stock as may be established by the Company’s Board of Directors.

The Company grants equity-based compensation under its 2020 Plan and its 2016 Equity Incentive Plan (the “2016 Plan”). The 2020 Plan and 2016 Plan allows the Company to grant incentive and nonqualified stock options, and shares of restricted stock to its employees, directors and consultants. On June 14, 2019, the Board of Directors of the Company approved increasing the number of shares allocated to the Company’s 2016 Equity Incentive Plan from 5,500,000 to 7,333,333.

Under the 2016 Plan and the 2020 Plan, upon the exercise of stock options and issuance of fully vested restricted common stock, shares of common stock may be withheld to satisfy tax withholdings. The Company intends to net settle certain employee options to ensure adequate authorized shares under the Incentive Plan.

Stock-based compensation:

The Company recognized total expenses for stock-based compensation during the three months ended March 31, 2023 and 2022, which are included in the accompanying statements of operations, as follows (in thousands):

Stock Options:

The Company provides stock-based compensation to employees, directors and consultants under both the 2016 and 2020 Plans. The fair value of each stock option grant is estimated on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option pricing model. The Company historically has been a private company and lacks company-specific historical and implied volatility information. Therefore, it estimates its expected stock volatility based on the historical volatility of a publicly traded set of peer companies and expects to continue to do so until such time as it has adequate historical data regarding the volatility of its own traded stock price. The risk-free interest rate is determined by referencing the U.S. Treasury yield curve in effect at the time of grant of the award for time periods approximately equal to the expected term of the award. Expected dividend yield is based on the fact that the Company has never paid cash dividends and does not expect to pay any cash dividends in the foreseeable future.

A summary of activity under the 2016 and 2020 Plans for the nine three months ended March 31, 2023 is as follows:

Restricted stock units:

A summary of the Company’s restricted stock activity during the three months ended March 31, 2023 is as follows:

Warrants:

A summary of the Company’s warrant (excluding penny warrants) activity during the three months ended March 31, 2023 is as follows:

2023 Liability Classified Warrants

Senior Secured Note

During the three months ended March 31, 2023, in connection with the issuance of its senior secured notes on January 3, 2023 (See Note 11), the Company issued 2,500,000 warrants to purchase shares of the Company’s common stock with an exercise price of $0.32 per share. The warrants expire 5 years from the issuance date.

Line of Credit

During the three months ended March 31, 2023, in connection with its Line of Credit, the Company issued 45,000 warrants to purchase shares of its Series E preferred stock with an exercise price of $0.50 per share multiplied by 1,000, and subject to adjustment under certain circumstances described in the warrant. (See Note 12). The warrants expire 5 years from the issuance date.

2022 Notes

During the year ended December 31, 2022, in connection with the 2022 Notes, the Company issued 21,759,402 warrants to purchase shares of the Company’s common stock. The warrants have an exercise price of $0.32 per share and expire five years from the issuance date.

During the three months ended March 31, 2023, in connection with its 2022 Notes, the Company entered into a warrant inducement and exercise agreement with certain holders. Under the terms of the agreement, the holders exercised 6,405,844 warrants, and the Company issued 6,405,844 new warrants to purchase shares of its common stock with an exercise price of $0.32 per share. The warrants expire 5 years from the issuance date.

On February 28, 2023, the Company entered into waiver agreements with holders of the 2022 Notes and issued 5,813,414 warrants to purchase shares of the Company’s common stock with an exercise price of $0.32 per share.

2022 Equity Classified Warrants

Hudson Pacific Properties, L.P.

On August 12, 2022, the Company entered into two Purchase Orders (PO’s) with Hudson Pacific Properties, L.P. (“Hudson”) for the purchase of the Company’s Smart Window Inserts™ (“Inserts”). Hudson is a unique provider of end-to-end real estate solutions for tech and media tenants. The PO’s have a value of $85,450 and represent the first orders the Company has received prior to the launch of its Inserts. Delivery and installation are expected to begin in the fourth quarter of 2023.

On August 12, 2022, as additional consideration for the PO’s, the Company issued a warrant to Hudson to purchase 300,000 shares of the Company’s common stock at $0.75 per share. The warrant has a five-year life and expires on August 12, 2027.

Because Hudson is a customer, the Company accounts for the PO’s and warrants under Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) 606 Revenue Recognition (“ASC 606”). As the performance obligations have not yet been satisfied, the Company has not recognized any revenue during the three months ended March 31, 2023.

The Company accounts for the equity-classified warrant as consideration payable to a customer under ASC 606, as it relates to the future purchase of the Inserts. Pursuant to ASC 718 Compensation - Stock Compensation (“ASC 718”), the Company measured the fair value of the warrant using the Black-Scholes valuation model on the issuance date, with the value being recognized as a prepaid asset up to the recoverable value represented by the value of the contract. The fair value of the warrant on the issuance date totaled $161,700, and as of March 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022, the Company recorded a prepaid asset of $85,450, representing the recoverable value from the PO’s, which is included in prepaid and other current assets on the accompanying consolidated balance sheet.

SLOC

In connection with the SLOC, on March 17, 2022 the Company issued a warrant for 200,000 shares of common stock with an exercise price of $2.00, and a total fair value of approximately $223,000. This amount is included in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet as deferred debt issuance costs (See Note 6).

Note 14 - Commitments and Contingencies

Leases

Oregon State University

On March 8, 2016, the Company entered into a lease agreement with Oregon State University, to lease office and laboratory space located at HP Campus Building 11, 1110 NE Circle Blvd, Corvallis, Oregon, for approximately $400 monthly. On July 1, 2016, the Company entered into the first amendment to the lease agreement which increased the monthly lease expense to approximately $1,200. On October 1, 2017, the Company entered into a sublease agreement, which provides for additional office space and the monthly lease payment increased to approximately $1,800. The lease expired on June 30, 2018 and the Company extended the lease through June 30, 2019. The monthly lease payment increased to approximately $4,500 for the months ended June 30, 2018 through November 30, 2018, and increased to approximately $7,550 for the months ended December 31, 2018 through June 30, 2019.

On January 24, 2022, the Company entered into the eighth amendment to its lease with Oregon State University which expands the lease to now include approximately 703 square feet of lab space, 768 square feet of cubicle space, 2,088 square feet of Highbay lab space, and 376 square feet of High bay storage space in a building commonly known as Building 11. Effective January 24, 2022, the quarterly operating expense will be $44,252 covering all utility and facility tooling costs. The sublease expires June 30, 2025.

On January 20, 2023, the Company entered into the ninth amendment to its lease with Oregon State University which reduces the amount of cubicle space from 768 square feet to 288 square feet. Effective January 20, 2023 the quarterly operating expense is $41,323 covering all utility and facility tooling costs.

Hudson 11601 Wilshire, LLC

On March 4, 2021, the Company entered into a lease agreement with Hudson 11601 Wilshire, LLC, to lease 3,500 square feet of office space located in Los Angeles, California. The lease term is 39 months and expires on June 30, 2024. The monthly lease expense is as follows:

The Company paid a security deposit totaling $20,373 at the lease inception date.

HP Inc.

On May 4, 2021, the Company entered into a lease agreement with HP Inc. to lease office and lab space located in Corvallis, Oregon. The lease term is 5 years, and the lease commencement date is April 1, 2021. The monthly lease expense is $7,388 and increases 3% on each anniversary of the lease commencement date. The Company paid a security deposit totaling $8,315. The Company has the option to extend the lease for an additional 5 years. On January 26, 2022, the Company entered into the first amendment to its lease with HP Inc., which amends the lease commencement date to January 26, 2022 and the lease expiration date to January 31, 2027.

Pacific N.W. Properties, LLC

On October 5, 2021, the Company entered into a lease agreement with Pacific N.W. Properties, LLC to lease 26,963 square feet of warehouse, manufacturing, production and office space located in Salem Oregon. The commencement date of the lease is October 1, 2021, the lease term is 62 months and expires on November 30, 2026.

On December 9, 2021, the Company entered into the first amendment to its lease agreement with Pacific N.W. Properties, LLC. The lease amendment revises the lease commencement date to December 9, 2021 and the lease expiration date to February 28, 2027. The revised monthly lease expense is as follows:

As of March 31, 2023, the Company had operating lease liabilities of approximately $1.8 million and right-of-use assets of approximately $1.7 million, which are included in the condensed balance sheet.

The components of lease expense were as follows:

Supplemental cash flow information related to leases were as follows:

As of March 31, 2023, future minimum payments are as follows (in thousands):

During the three months ended March 31, 2023 and 2022, the Company recognized rent expense of approximately $0.2 million in each period, respectively.

On April 27, 2023 the Company terminated the Pacific NW lease and exited the building on May 10th, 2023. (See note 15)

Litigation 

From time to time, the Company is also involved in various other claims and legal actions that arise in the ordinary course of business. Although the results of litigation and claims cannot be predicted with certainty, the Company does not believe that the ultimate resolution of these actions will have a material adverse effect on its financial position, results of operations, liquidity or capital resources.

Future litigation may be necessary to defend ourselves and our partners by determining the scope, enforceability and validity of third party proprietary rights or to establish the Company’s proprietary rights. The results of any current or future litigation cannot be predicted with certainty, and regardless of the outcome, litigation can have an adverse impact on the Company because of defense and settlement costs, diversion of management resources and other factors.

Note 15 - Subsequent Events

The Company has evaluated all subsequent events through the date of filing, May 22, 2023, of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q with the SEC, to ensure that this filing includes appropriate disclosure of events both recognized in the condensed consolidated financial statements as of March 31, 2023, and events which occurred after March 31, 2023, but which were not recognized in the financial statements. The Company has determined that there were no subsequent events which required recognition, adjustment to or disclosure in the financial statements.

Lease Termination

On April 27, 2023 the Company terminated the Pacific NW lease and exited the building on May 10th, 2023. As part of the termination agreement, the Company agreed to pay fees to the landlord for rent in arrears and re-tenanting costs. The fees will be covered by forfeiting Crowns $150,000 security deposit and paying an additional $115,394 for Landlord re-tenanting costs to be paid in three monthly instalments beginning April 30, 2023.

Convertible Note Repricing

On May 12, 2023, the Company entered into letter agreements (the “Inducement Agreements”) with certain of the October Investors, pursuant to which such October Investors agreed to reduce the conversion price of October Notes in an aggregate principal amount equal to $1,500,000, to $0.1547 per share, which are now convertible into 9,693,681 shares of the Company’s common stock, representing an increase of 5,030,951 shares in excess of the number of shares into which such October Notes were convertible prior to the Company’s entry into the Inducement Agreements.

On May 17, 2023, the Company entered into Inducement Agreements with the remaining October Investors, pursuant to which such October Investors agreed to reduce the conversion price of October Notes in an aggregate principal amount equal to $1,392,657, to $0.1822 per share, which are now convertible into 7,643,560 shares of the Company’s common stock, representing an increase of 3,314,506 shares in excess of the number of shares into which such October Notes were convertible prior to the Company’s entry into the Inducement Agreements.

Line of Credit Promissory Note Extension

On May 15, 2023, the Company entered into that certain Third Amendment to the Convertible Promissory Note (the “LOC Note Amendment”) with the lender, pursuant to which the lender agreed to extend the maturity date of the LOC Note until June 7, 2023 in exchange for, subject to stockholder approval, 4,000 shares of the Company’s SeriesE Preferred Stock, which are convertible into 4,000,000 shares of the Company’s common stock.

January Senior Secured Note Extension

On May 15, 2023, the lead lender and collateral agent for the January Notes agreed to grant the Company an extension of the maturity date thereof until May 23, 2023 in exchange for the issuance by the Company to the January Investors, on a pro rata basis, of 4,000,000 shares of the Company’s common stock, subject to approval by the Company’s stockholders.

May Demand Notes

Between May 17, 2023 and May 18, 2023, the Company issued secured demand promissory notes (the "Demand Notes") to certain investors (the “Holders”) in an aggregate principal amount equal to $429,877. The Demand Notes are due and payable at any time upon demand by a Holder after the earlier of (i) the consummation of the Company’s first securities offering after the issuance of the Demand Notes and (ii) July 16, 2023. The Demand Notes do not bear interest. In connection with the issuance of the Demand Notes, subject to stockholder approval, the Company agreed to issue to the Holders an aggregate of 8,597,539 shares of the Company’s common stock.

Item 2. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

The following discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations should be read in conjunction with the condensed consolidated financial statements and related notes thereto included elsewhere in this report. This discussion contains forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. Our actual results could differ materially from those discussed below. Factors that could cause or contribute to such differences include, but are not limited to, those identified below and those discussed in the section titled “Risk Factors” included elsewhere in this report.

As an “emerging growth company” under the Jumpstart Our Business Startups Act of 2012, we can take advantage of an extended transition period for complying with new or revised accounting standards. This allows an emerging growth company to delay the adoption of certain accounting standards until those standards would otherwise apply to private companies. We are electing to delay our adoption of such new or revised accounting standards. As a result of this election, our condensed consolidated financial statements may not be comparable to the condensed financial statements of other public companies.

Management’s plans and basis of presentation:

Crown Electrokinetics Corp. was incorporated in the State of Delaware on April 20, 2015. Effective October 6, 2017, the Company’s name was changed to Crown Electrokinetics Corp. from 3D Nanocolor Corp.

On January 26, 2021, the Company completed its public offering, and its common stock began trading on the Nasdaq Capital Market (Nasdaq) under the symbol CRKN.

The Company is commercializing technology for smart or dynamic glass. The Company’s electrokinetic glass technology is an advancement on microfluidic technology that was originally developed by HP Inc.

Business Combination

On December 20, 2022, the Company incorporated Crown Fiber Optics Corp., a Delaware based entity, to own and operate its acquired business from the acquisition of Amerigen 7, LLC (“Amerigen 7) in January 2023. Crown Fiber Optics Corp. will be accounted for as a wholly- owned subsidiary of Crown Electrokinetics, Corp.

On January 3, 2023, the Company acquired certain assets related to the construction of 5G fiber optics infrastructure and distributed antenna systems from Amerigen 7 (the “Asset Acquisition”), for cash consideration of approximately $0.65 million. The Asset Acquisition included approximately 12 employees, customer contracts, and certain operating liabilities. The Asset Acquisition will be accounted for as a business combination in accordance with Accounting Standards Codification 805, Business Combinations. The initial purchase price may be adjusted as needed per the terms of the arrangement agreement. The allocation of purchase price, including any fair value of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed as of the acquisition date has not been completed.

Preferred Stock

On February 1, 2023 the Company filed the first amendment to its Series D preferred stock, which modifies the conversion price of the Series D preferred stock from $1.30 to $0.50 per share.

On February 1, 2023, the Company’s Board of Directors authorized 77,000 shares of Series E preferred stock with a par value of $0.0001 per share. Each share of Series E Preferred Stock is convertible into 1,000 shares of the Company’s common stock at the option of the holders.

On February 2, 2023, as consideration for entering into its Line of Credit (see below), the Company issued 5,000 shares of Series E Preferred Stock as a commitment fee with a fair value of $1.45 million and issued a warrant to purchase 45,000 shares of the Company’s Series E preferred stock. In addition, the Company agreed to issue an additional 5,000 shares of Series E preferred stock on both the first and second anniversary date of the Line of Credit, or 10,000 shares on the first anniversary, if the Company does not elect to extend the maturity date of the Line of Credit. The fair value of the additional 10,000 shares of Series E preferred stock on the issuance date totaled $2.9 million. The Company recorded the total fair value of $4.35 million as additional paid-in capital with the offsetting debit to deferred debt issuance costs. The deferred debt issuance costs will be amortized over the term of the Line of Credit.

The warrant to purchase 45,000 shares of the Company’s Series E preferred stock is exercisable for five years at an exercise price of the greater of $0.50 per share multiplied by 1,000, and subject to adjustment under certain circumstances described in the warrant.

Common stock

Change in Authorized Shares

On December 22, 2022, the Company’s Board of Directors approved increasing the Company’s authorized shares of common stock from 200,000,000 to 800,000,000 shares.

Reverse Stock Split

On December 22, 2022, the Company’s stockholders approved a reverse stock split of its common stock at a ratio of not more than 1-for-15, such ratio to be determined by the Company’s Board of Directors on or prior to December 22, 2023.

Warrant Exercises

During the three months ended March 31, 2023, the Company issued 6,405,844 shares of its common stock in connection with the exercise of 6,405,844 warrants, receiving net proceeds of approximately $2.06 million at a weighted average price of $0.32 per share.

ATM Offering

The Company entered into a Sales Agreement with A.G.P./Alliance Global Partners (the “Sales Agents”) dated March 30, 2022 (the “Sales Agreement”), pursuant to which the Company may, from time to time, sell up to $5 million in shares (the “Placement Shares”) of the Company’s common stock through the Sales Agents, acting as the Company’s sales agent and/or principal, in a continuous at-the-market offering (the “ATM Offering”). The Company will pay the Sales Agents a commission of up to 3.0% of the aggregate gross proceeds the Company receives from all sales of the Company’s common stock under the Sales Agreement. The Placement Shares will be offered and sold pursuant to the Company’s shelf registration statement on Form S-3 (Registration No. 333- 262122) and the related base prospectus included in the registration statement, as supplemented by the prospectus supplement dated March 30, 2022.

On October 5, 2022, the Company and the Sales Agents filed the first amendment to the Sales Agreement (the “First Amendment to the Sales Agreement”). Pursuant to the First Amendment to the Sales Agreement, the Company may from time to time, sell up to $3.5 million in Placement Shares of the Company’s common stock through the Sales Agents in a continuous At-the-Market Offering (the Amended ATM Offering”). According to the First Amendment to the Sales Agreement, the Company will pay the Sales Agents a commission of up to 3.0% of the aggregate gross proceeds the Company receives from all sales of its common stock in the Amended ATM Offering.

During the three months ended March 31, 2023, the Company has received net proceeds on sales of 12,700,000 shares of common stock under the Sales Agreement of approximately $2.1 million (after deducting $0.1 million in commissions and expenses) at a weighted average price of $0.173 per share.

Line of Credit and Convertible Promissory Note

On February 2, 2023, the Company entered into a line of credit agreement (the “Line of Credit”) securing a line of credit up to $100.0 million. The Line of Credit will be used to fund expenses related to the fulfillment of contracts with customers of the Company’s wholly-owned subsidiary, Crown Fiber Optics Corporation. The Line of Credit expires February 2, 2024, unless the Line of Credit is extended for one or two additional years in accordance with its terms. On February 3, 2023, upon drawing down on the Line of Credit, the Company issued a convertible promissory note (the “2023 Note”) totaling $2.0 million, which is due and payable 60 days from the issuance date. The 2023 Note is non-interest bearing and secured by the Company’s assets. The 2023 Note issued with the initial $2.0 million draw down is convertible into shares of the Company’s common stock, at a conversion price per share of $0.50 per share, subject to adjustment under certain circumstances described in the 2023 Note. Notes evidencing future withdrawals, if any, will be convertible into common stock only upon the declaration of an event of default under such promissory note. As of the date of this report the Company is in discussions to extend the Maturity of the 2023 Note.

Senior Secured Convertible Notes

On October 19, 2022, the Company issued senior secured convertible notes (the “2022 Notes”) with a principal balance of approximately $5.4 million, and warrants to purchase 21,749,402 shares of the Company’s common stock for net proceeds of $3.5 million. The Notes were issued with a conversion price at a 54% premium to the most recent closing price, an original issue discount of 35%, do not bear interest, and mature upon the earlier of twelve months from the date of issuance or the closing of a change of control transaction (as defined in the notes). The 2022 Notes are convertible into shares of the Company’s common stock at a conversion price of $0.49 per share, subject to adjustment under certain circumstances described in the 2022 Notes. The 2022 Notes are secured by all of the Company’s assets (subject to exceptions for certain strategic transactions). The warrants have an exercise price of $0.32 per share and expire five years from the issuance date (subject to adjustment under certain circumstances described in the warrants).

As of December 31, 2022, the fair value of the 2022 Notes was approximately $1.7 million. During the year ended December 31, 2022, the Company recorded a change in fair value of the Notes totaling $0.15 million.

During the three months ended March 31, 2023, in connection with its 2022 Notes, the Company entered into a warrant inducement and exercise agreement with certain note holders. The Company received net proceeds of approximately $2.06 million in connection with the exercise of 6,405,844 warrants, and the Company issued 6,405,844 shares of its common stock. Under the terms of the agreement, the Company issued 6,405,844 new warrants to purchase shares of its common stock with an exercise price of $0.32 per share. The warrants expire 5 years from the issuance date.

On February 28, 2023, the Company entered into waiver agreements with the investors of the Notes issued in October 2022, which extended the maturity date of the Notes from October 18, 2023 until April 18, 2023. In connection with the waiver agreements, the Company issued 5,813,414 warrants to purchase shares of the Company’s common stock, which are exercisable at $0.32 per share and expire five years from the issuance date.

On March 24, 2023, the Company entered into waiver agreements with holders of the 2022 Notes to eliminate the minimum pricing covenant as it relates to Company’s At-The-Market facility. As consideration for this agreement, the Company provided the holders with two options i) take an additional 5% OID on the October note principal or ii) pending shareholder approval, be issued shares of common stock with a value equal to the 5% OID value, and issue total shares of 1,903,429 as converted using the Nasdaq minimum price of $0.157. During the three months ended March 31, 2023, six of the note holders elected option i), and the Company increased the respective principal balance of the notes by approximately $0.15 million. The remaining note holders elected option ii), and as of the date of this report, no shares of common stock have been issued.

Senior Secured Notes

On January 3, 2023, the Company issued senior secured notes with a principal balance of approximately $1.2 million and warrants to purchase 2,500,000 shares of the Company’s common stock for net proceeds of $1.0 million. The senior secured notes were issued with an original issue discount of 16.7%, do not bear interest, and mature three months from the date of issuance (unless extended pursuant to the terms of the notes). The warrants are exercisable for five years at an exercise price of $0.322, subject to adjustment under certain circumstances described in the warrants. As of the date of this report the Company is in discussions to extend the maturity of this note.

Leases

Crown’s Research & Development Operation currently occupies 1,700 square feet of space, located on the HP Inc. campus in Corvallis, Oregon in the Advanced Technology and Manufacturing Institute (ATAMI). ATAMI is an academic-industrial research center and business incubator designed to provide an advanced materials development environment to private sector partner tenants performing research and development. The facility includes access to shared state-of-the-art tooling capabilities. ATAMI has grown to 80,000 square feet since its inception in 2004.

Hudson 11601 Wilshire, LLC

On March 4, 2021, the Company entered into a standard office lease with Hudson 11601 Wilshire, LLC, to lease 3,500 square feet of office space located at 11601 Wilshire Boulevard, Los Angeles, California 90025. The base monthly rent for the first year of the lease is $18,375 per month, which increases to $19,018.13 per month for the second year, $19,683.76 for the third year and $20,372.69 for the final three months of the lease. The lease expires on June 30, 2024.

Pacific N.W. Properties, LLC

On October 5, 2021, the Company entered into a lease agreement with Pacific N.W. Properties, LLC to lease 26,963 square feet of warehouse, manufacturing, production and office space located in Salem Oregon. The commencement date of the lease is October 1, 2021, the lease term is 62 months and expires on November 30, 2026. On December 9, 2021, the Company entered into the first amendment to its lease agreement with Pacific N.W. Properties, LLC. The lease amendment revises the lease commencement date to December 9, 2021 and the lease expiration date to February 28, 2027.

On April 27, 2023 the Company terminated the Pacific NW lease and exited the building on May 10th, 2023. (See note 15)

HP Inc.

On May 4, 2021, the Company entered into a lease agreement with HP Inc. to lease office and lab space located in Corvallis, Oregon. The lease term is 5 years, and the lease commencement date is April 1, 2021. The monthly lease expense is $7,388 and increases 3% on each anniversary of the lease commencement date. The Company paid a security deposit totaling $8,315. The Company has the option to extend the lease for an additional 5 years. On January 26, 2022, the Company entered into the first amendment to its lease with HP Inc., which amends the lease commencement date to January 26, 2022 and the lease expiration date to January 31, 2027.

We believe that our facilities are adequate to meet our needs for the immediate future and that, should it be needed, we will be able to secure additional space to accommodate the expansion of our operations. This office space, along with ATAMI, offers Crown all the space requirements it needs for the foreseeable future.