By: Francis Perkins
For Raquel Graham, founder and CEO of ROQ Innovation, her lightbulb moment literally came in the form of a light—specifically, the LED light embedded in her signature product, the Headlightz Beanie. Now, ROQ Innovation’s Headlightz Pom Pom Beanies have been selected as one of Oprah’s Favorite Things 2024, marking the fourth consecutive year on this highly-regarded holiday gift list. As Oprah highlights on OprahDaily.com, “This good-looking pom-pom beanie has a rechargeable light, which makes it ideal for walks with the dog or a jog when the sun sets just a little too early.”
But ROQ Innovation is more than just a clever idea; it is a brand rooted in necessity, creativity, and a deep commitment to innovation. In this article, we delve into the origins of ROQ Innovation, the impact of Graham’s personal experiences on product development, and her vision for the future of her company.
The idea for ROQ Innovation was sparked by a very personal frustration. “I came up with the concept for Headlightz because I’m a runner,” Graham explains. “During the winter, it gets dark really early, and it’s cold. There was nothing where I could find a product that could keep me warm and let me see where I was going.” Traditional headlamps were bulky and impractical for runners like Graham, leading her to create a more user-friendly solution. Thus, the Headlightz Beanie was born—a warm, comfortable hat equipped with a removable LED light that offers hands-free illumination.
Photo Courtesy: ROQ Innovation
But the Headlightz Beanie is not just for runners. “While the hat was created for outdoor recreation, it has also taken on a very large safety usage,” Graham points out. “It’s hands-free lighting…for camping, running, biking, but also for safety, like changing a tire at the side of the road, power outages, walking your dog.” This versatility has made the beanie popular with a broad demographic, particularly women over 35, who are often the heads of their households and primary gift buyers. “It resonates with those who appreciate practicality and innovation,” she adds, highlighting the beanie’s ability to meet various consumer needs.
Beyond the practicality of its products, ROQ Innovation stands out for its commitment to sustainability. “This is the first year that we are actually PFAS-free,” Graham reveals. “We have no forever chemicals in our beanies, and we intend to be that way for all of our products that are wearables or soft goods.” This focus on environmentally conscious manufacturing reflects a growing trend in consumer demand for sustainable products, and Graham is at the forefront of this movement. “Sustainability is not just a buzzword for us; it’s a commitment to our future and the health of our planet,” she emphasizes.
Photo Courtesy: LX MGMT
As with any entrepreneurial journey, Graham has faced her share of challenges, particularly in securing the capital needed to grow her business. “The biggest challenge…has just been access to capital,” she candidly shares. “I was lucky to have some savings and to lean on very creative financing…until I could get some cash flow.” Despite these financial hurdles, Graham’s resourcefulness and determination have allowed her to continue expanding ROQ Innovation’s product line. “I had to get creative to find funding solutions that worked for my vision,” she reflects. Through partnerships with innovative financing companies, she has been able to secure the funds necessary to meet her growing inventory demands.
Graham’s approach to product design is unconventional, yet highly effective. “I literally couldn’t glue the prototype together for my first product,” she admits with a laugh. But this hasn’t stopped her from creating products that resonate with consumers. For each new product, Graham begins by identifying a problem in her own life and then developing a solution that doesn’t already exist on the market. “Everything originates from my life…some kind of frustration,” she explains. “I think I can just go online to buy the solution, and either it’s not there, or it’s not good.” This personal touch is evident in her products, which often solve everyday inconveniences in unique ways.
Graham’s design philosophy also emphasizes user experience. “I always ask myself, how can I make this easier or better for people?” she says. “It’s about being customer-focused and listening to what they need.” This mindset not only guides her product development but also her marketing strategies. “I think that storytelling is so important for a brand,” she notes. “When customers connect with the story behind a product, it creates loyalty and a sense of community.”
Photo Courtesy: Raquel Graham (@raquelsgraham)
So, what’s next for ROQ Innovation? Graham has a number of exciting new products in the pipeline, spanning categories such as hydration, self-care, and home organization. “We’re constantly looking for ways to innovate,” she reveals. “We want to create solutions that are not just functional but also enhance people’s lives.” Graham’s ultimate goal is to continue expanding ROQ Innovation into new markets while maintaining the brand’s focus on solving everyday problems with practical, innovative solutions.
The future of ROQ Innovation looks bright, as Graham is not only committed to expanding her product line but also to fostering a culture of inclusivity and empowerment within her company. “I want to inspire other women entrepreneurs,” she declares. “It’s important to create a space where women feel supported in their business endeavors.” By prioritizing mentorship and collaboration, Graham aims to build a community that uplifts and encourages female entrepreneurs to pursue their passions.
Raquel Graham’s journey from mompreneur to industry leader is an inspiring one, proving that with creativity, determination, and a little bit of ingenuity, it’s possible to turn life’s challenges into thriving businesses. “If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that you have to believe in yourself,” she shares. “Every setback is just a setup for a comeback.” With her innovative spirit and commitment to problem-solving, Graham is poised to continue making waves in the world of product design.
In conclusion, ROQ Innovation stands as a testament to the power of practical product design and the importance of addressing real-world needs. With Raquel Graham at the helm, the company not only provides functional solutions but also champions sustainability and female entrepreneurship. As ROQ Innovation continues to grow and evolve, it remains dedicated to its mission of illuminating everyday challenges, one innovative product at a time.
Published by: Josh Tatunay
