SunnyBAG Story

Who is SunnyBAG?

It all started a few years ago when Stefan Ponsold was unhappy with the battery performance of his new iPhone. Knowing he could not extend the battery life, he wondered if there was a solution in the form of a mobile power supply to keep it charged. Inspired to create a practical and sustainable power source, Stefan began to develop a prototype using solar energy. The first prototype was an iPhone cover with an integrated solar panel. Having to let the phone lie in the sun for extended periods of time and the low capacity of the portable battery pack proved this to not be an ideal solution.

iPhone-Solarcase prototype developed 2008

Stefan knew that a larger solar panel area would capture more energy and produce enough electricity to charge an iPhone and other personal electronics. He thought to incorporate these panels into his shoulder bag and from there the idea for SunnyBAG was born. Incorporating solar panels and a high performance battery pack into a shoulder bag was easier said than done. With the help of his brother Martin, his father, and the family run upholstery business, Stefan fashioned his first fully functional solar bag in 2008.

Working on prototypes every free minute.

First self designed battery pack, developed in 2008.

His younger brother named Martin stitched the panels onto the first prototype.

As part of his studies as an “Innovation Management” student, Stefan was given the task of developing a business plan. Together with a few colleagues, they developed a full scale business plan that would help turn SunnyBAG into a reality. After manufacturing a few solar bags by hand, Stefan proposed his business plan to Science Park Graz, a government funded office space for young entrepreneurs. Impressed with the product, Science Park offered support, mentorship and office space for Stefan to begin his business. SunnyBAG was officially founded on Sept. 1^st, 2010 with Stefan Ponsold as the owner and sole employee.

First prototype tested in Austria.

Soon after, the demand for SunnyBAGs would exceed supply and in early 2011 the first two employees would join the SunnyBAG team. The summer would bring three more employees in order to cope with growing demand, operations, and administrative tasks.

Corporate Innovation at SunnyBAG?

The SunnyBAG team are empowered to discover their roles and areas of responsibility within the company. Flexibility, strong communication and limitless potential encourage a fun and motivational company culture. Stefan believes that a strong company culture allows the core values and philosophy of SunnyBAG to be communicated and passed on to the customer.

Flashmob-presentation of a new collection in Austria 2011

“We believe in future of intelligent and environmentally friendly products for mobile energy supply.”

The demand for environmentally friendly and sustainable products has never been greater. Stefan Ponsold and SunnyBAG have been recognized for their contributions to this demand by winning several awards in 2011 - To name a few, the Styrian business “Fast Forward Award” and the German environmental “Clean Tech Media Award”.