# Yaupon Brothers American Tea America's ONLY native caffeinated leaf, Yaupon - Canonical URL: https://wefunder.com/yaupon.brothers - Entity ID: wefunder:company:124171 - Last updated: 2026-06-05T05:00:49Z - Generated at: 2026-06-05T17:59:17Z ## Quick facts - Potential to disrupt a $13B imported tea industry with 100% American Yaupon - America's First Cup. - Yaupon is Whole Foods #1 Top Ten Food Trend, and Bon Appétit Editors name it a top herbal tea. - Yaupon is a regenerative, sustainable, and organic crop, and it only grows in the Southeast U.S. - Yaupon is America's only domestic caffeine source. It's the only tariff-proof caffeine in the USA. - Forbes "The Year of Yaupon"; Washington Post votes Yaupon 'IN' on 'The List'. - Mission driven company that seeks to uplift socially disadvantaged farmers with a profitable crop. - We have 80,000 acres of Yaupon under company management with plans to scale as the company does. - Planted 250,000 Yaupon trees; will increase the number of trees planted yearly as we grow. ## Active fundraises - wefunder:fundraise:120301: 4(a)(6) successful (USD) - wefunder:fundraise:120300: 4(a)(6) successful (USD) - wefunder:fundraise:78312: 4(a)(6) successful (USD) - wefunder:fundraise:78313: 4(a)(6) successful (USD) ## Story In the current chaotic trade environment, Yaupon has suddenly become the only tariff-proof caffeine in the United States.We've planted almost 300,000 trees across three states in the American Southeast.Almost all the caffeine consumed in the USA is imported or synthetic, Yaupon aims to change that.Our TEAm has over fifty years of experience in CPG, Agriculture, and business systems.Only $124k of the $2M will be raised through Wefunder. ## FAQ 1. **I'm a big fan of your loose leaf tea of the month series (drinking it now, actually). For the $1.86M that you're looking raise, what do you plan to do with the capital? Also, I see the Projected P&L has profitability in 2023 - are you profitable for 2022?** - Hi Carolyn, in the slide deck on the investment page, there is a slide dedicated to use of funds. But in a nutshell, most of it is operating capital used to scale operations and production, with the second largest chunk going to marketing, promotion, and SG&A. We actually do not expect significant profitability until 2025 - the capital will help us make critical investments in sales and finance positions as well out outlay to support retail expansion, which helps us get to the point. Hope... 2. **I would love to support your company/product/mission but would first like to confirm that you are a cruelty free company.** - Hi Tiffany- thank you for asking and yes! We do not use any animal products, and we are certified organic! Hope that helps! Kindly, Bryon 3. **Hi there! First -love the tea! I have tried 2 of them and I must have a cup each day. I have a few questions before I invest. I will apologize for my lack-of -knowledge but want to have a clear understanding. Did this company go by another name previously? If so, if the name c...** - Hi C Zee - glad you love the tea! The company name is Ilex Organics LLC. Yaupon Brothers is our flagship brand. The investment would be in Ilex Organics, so that covers everything the company owns. There are pretty strict regulations in place from the SEC that require lots of disclosures to you, so you know what you’re investing in. We haven’t changed names, but if we did, it wouldn’t impact your investment. We are currently on in Florida Whole Foods. If you don’t see us in your local WFM, pl... 4. **What are your net margins? What's your plan to market and scale. what is your distribution plan and marketing spend and plan?. How are you all truly different? How do you all stand you stand out?..Do you have a plan to bring down operational cost some to save some money? How d...** - Hi Timothy! Thanks for your questions. Several of your inquiries are addressed in this pitch deck:https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1l467jk1pQZcQslW2jMx1psqGKy5JJg2Lb-I8oYX1i7o/edit?usp=sharing Also, baked into that cake are several market sensitivities which span from best case to worst case scenario. Supply is less of a problem for us than for other tea companies simply because we are vertically-integrated, and grow our own raw material right here in the USA. That is also what makes us... 5. **When would you say is the most likely timeline or timeframe approximately say for the start of you raise in terms of like months. thanks** - For the equity raise, we are already working on that, so it is likely the SAFE's will convert to equity in the next six months. ## Team - Bryon White (President, CEO, Co-Founder) - Kyle White (Co-Founder, VP Sales) - Brantley Lansberry (Sales & Customer Service Lead) - Peace Maikasuwa (Customer Service Associate) - Janet Coursin (COO) - Alyssa Schroeder (CMO/CRO) ## Recent posts - ⏳ 48 Hours Left — Don’t Miss This (2026-04-01T14:57:07Z) - Investor Update: The Round Is Closing – April 3 🌿 (2026-03-16T16:45:03Z) - Our New Website is Live + Wholesale Portal Now Open 🚀 (2026-02-16T02:49:32Z) - Yaupon Brothers Annual Update! (2026-01-24T03:35:57Z) - New year. New look. Bigger mission. (2026-01-06T16:21:46Z) - Yaupon Brothers Takes Center Stage at Garden & Gun Winter Market, Charleston — Nov 20–23 (2025-11-11T13:20:26Z) - Form C Filed 🎉 Next Step: Authorize Your Investment (2025-09-15T18:38:16Z) - Weekly Update: Major Wins with Misfits Market & HomeGoods 🚀 (2025-08-25T15:14:55Z) - Last Chance to Vote – Help Us Get to SXSW with Potlikker Capital! (2025-08-20T20:08:11Z) - Yaupon Brothers Weekly Investor Update – Uncle Pappy’s Edition (2025-08-14T01:55:14Z) - Correct SXSW Link (2025-08-08T15:11:21Z) - Help Us Get to SXSW! 💥 One Click = Big Impact (2025-08-06T01:22:35Z) - 📰 Investor Update: Yaupon Brothers Featured in DTN “Tea Time” (2025-08-04T18:09:30Z) - 📣 Investor Update: A Breakthrough Week for Yaupon! (2025-07-30T16:17:44Z) - We’re on NPR! And in The Guardian. And The Washington Post. 🌿📣 (2025-07-22T16:37:36Z) ## Q&A - Q: What are your net margins? What's your plan to market and scale. what is your distribution plan and marketing spend and plan?. How are you all truly different? How do you all stand you stand out?..Do you have a plan to bring down operational cost some to save some money? How do you plan to increase your margins. What other areas of interest might you expand. What is your go to back up plan or defcon 5 worst case scenario... supply chain disruptions are a real issue so we need to seriously have multiple plans in place .. thinking of investing..just had a few questions..Looks too be a quality product very good. God bless - A: Hi Timothy! Thanks for your questions. Several of your inquiries are addressed in this pitch deck:https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1l467jk1pQZcQslW2jMx1psqGKy5JJg2Lb-I8oYX1i7o/edit?usp=sharing Also, baked into that cake are several market sensitivities which span from best case to worst case scenario. Supply is less of a problem for us than for other tea companies simply because we are vertically-integrated, and grow our own raw material right here in the USA. That is also what makes us different. Conventional tea is made from the tea plant, (Camellia sinensis), which is native to Asia and doesn't grow well in the USA, so we end up importing it in huge quantities. Our tea is made from Yaupon, which is native to the USA and is our only native caffeine source. It's American Tea! I hope that helps answer your questions, but if not please feel free to reach out or we can also talk 1:1. Thanks so much for your interest! Kindly, Bryon - Q: Hi there! First -love the tea! I have tried 2 of them and I must have a cup each day. I have a few questions before I invest. I will apologize for my lack-of -knowledge but want to have a clear understanding. Did this company go by another name previously? If so, if the name changes again, does the investment transfer? I have looked in Whole Foods but I have not found the tea there/on their website; is the tea coming in the future? I sincerely appreciate the thoughtfulness for the environment, for thinking of the tea drinkers, and our health. ❤️ - A: Hi C Zee - glad you love the tea! The company name is Ilex Organics LLC. Yaupon Brothers is our flagship brand. The investment would be in Ilex Organics, so that covers everything the company owns. There are pretty strict regulations in place from the SEC that require lots of disclosures to you, so you know what you’re investing in. We haven’t changed names, but if we did, it wouldn’t impact your investment. We are currently on in Florida Whole Foods. If you don’t see us in your local WFM, please request us from their customer service desk. It really helps us out! I hope this helps answer your questions but please don’t hesitate to ask additional ones. Thank you! - Q: Hi Bryon, Thank you for the e-mail response in which I received today. I am excited for this growth journey. - Q: Hi Bryon, Just wanted to let you know that I sent an e-mail to you on March 21, 2026. The e-mail address I have is : bryon@yauponbrothers.com. Not sure if you received it. Please advise. Thank you. - A: Sorry if I missed that...its the correct email address. Would you mind resending? I don't see your email in my inbox. - Q: how many calories in a cup - A: Hi Ally - There are no calories unless you add something like a sweetener or cream, etc. - Q: Dear CEO Bryon White and the Yaupon Bros Team: I’m a millennial from the U.S. Southeast, and I’m interested in becoming an investor. For a little background, in the past month, a series of coincidences led me to read a book about the Mississippian “mound building” culture. In the book, there was mention of the “Black Drink” ceremony, Yaupon Holly, the plant’s benefits, and the history of the beverage (including the Latin name). After reading that book, I thought starting a U.S.-based yaupon tea company could carve a strong niche. Or to invest in an established one could prove beneficial. Lo and behold, here you are on WeFunder. A coincidence among coincidences. Acknowledging this, I have three questions: 1. First, the Financials: I read the investor deck and company projections. I also found a previous Form C available on the SEC website. However, do you have an updated copy of financial statements available? --- 2. Second, the Leadership: In researching the company, I noticed one of the original co-founders, Mark Steele, is no longer associated with Yaupon Bros. What caused the split? --- 3. Third, Company Culture and ESG: I feel compelled to highlight this topic, because as you know, several corporations (including some in the beverage industry) have drawn lines and endorsed LGBTQ+ causes and legislation. In researching the company, the Yaupon Brothers’ Facebook page has the LGBTQ+ Pride Flag color scheme and there’s mention of ties to the Clinton Foundation elsewhere. Unfortunately, case studies show company endorsements like these not only contradict a holistic philosophy of diversity and inclusion, but they also disenfranchise various stakeholders – some of whom are protected under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. Potentially bringing lawsuits. Consequently, I think there are better ways to engage the social realm of ESG, to improve communities, and to promote business. Examples might include the Dutch Bros Foundation’s “Dutch Luv” program, the McDonald’s “Ronald McDonald House Charities,” and Wendy’s “Dave Thomas Foundation.” After all, examples of corporate social good like these have shown long-term benefits. That is to say, in contrast to engaging in culture wars and/or taking a heavy-handed approach to specific special interest groups, I think the best ESG programs offer flexibility for individual empowerment and community choice. This flexibility creates value for both customers and employees alike, is capable of navigating personal beliefs, and is a better direction toward social sustainability. Because True empowerment not only advances wealth creation, but it also champions good conscience for all. Therefore, my question: as Yaupon Brothers American Tea Company (Ilex Organics) continues to grow into a national brand (with potential international aspirations), will narrow political allegiances and engaging in culture wars remain a company norm in the future? --- Ultimately, I am writing to you as a potential shareholder with a long-term horizon, and if managed properly, I think Yaupon Brothers has an opportunity to be a legacy investment. Thank you, MDH - A: Dear Mr. Helm, Thank you for your thoughtful message — and for sharing the serendipitous path that led you to us. The cultural legacy of Yaupon, from its ceremonial use in Mississippian societies to its modern relevance as a regenerative crop, is a powerful story we are proud to be stewarding. We’re thrilled it resonated with you. Let me address your questions in turn: 1. Financial Statements: We’re happy to share updated financial information. Our most recent revenue figures, pro forma forecasts, and capital structure are available in our WeFunder data room. If you’d like additional details or prefer to review with us directly, I’d be glad to schedule a call. 2. Leadership and Founding History: Yaupon Brothers was founded in 2012 by myself and my family. Mark Steele joined the company in 2015 and contributed to the business during an important phase of growth. He is no longer involved, having moved on to other ventures. There was no conflict — just a natural evolution as roles changed and the company matured. 3. Company Culture, ESG, and Values Alignment: We appreciate your perspective on ESG and your thoughtful concerns. At Yaupon Brothers, our mission is centered on regeneration — of land, opportunity, and community. Our focus is on building a new agricultural economy rooted in native plants, sustainable practices, and economic inclusion. This includes creating viable income streams for farmers in historically underserved rural communities, and honoring the Indigenous cultural origins of Yaupon itself. We occasionally acknowledge causes that reflect our commitment to human dignity and equity. However, we do not affiliate ourselves with political movements or engage in “culture war” discourse. Our brand belongs to everyone — and we believe a strong, values-driven company can be inclusive without being divisive. We also admire community-based programs like Dutch Luv and the Dave Thomas Foundation — and aspire to build a giving model that reflects the same commitment to long-term positive impact. For us, ESG is not about signaling, it’s about systems change — in agriculture, economic access, and land stewardship. We would be honored to welcome you as a shareholder and long-term partner. If you’d like to discuss further, I’d be happy to connect personally. Thank you again for your interest in Yaupon Brothers and your thoughtful engagement. With appreciation, Bryon White Co-Founder & CEO 📩 bryon@yauponbrothers.com 🌿 www.yauponbrothers.com - Q: Hi, I'm interested in learning more about investment opportunities with your company. I see the potential for significant growth and expansion nationwide and globally. Could you please share information on the benefits and rewards that investors can expect, such as dividends, equity, or other perks? Additionally, I'd like to know how often you plan to update investors on the company's progress and what methods you'll use to follow up with investors regarding the company's performance and growth. - A: Hi Edgar, Thanks so much for reaching out and for your interest in Yaupon Brothers! We’re excited to connect with potential investors who share our vision of building a uniquely American, regenerative tea brand with national and global potential. To your questions: Investor Benefits & Structure We’re currently raising capital through a priced preferred equity round at a $5.65M pre-money valuation. Investors in this round receive equity ownership in Yaupon Brothers American Tea, with all rights and preferences outlined in our WeFunder deal terms. We do not currently offer dividends, as all profits are reinvested into growth, but equity holders benefit from long-term value creation through a future acquisition or liquidity event. We also offer tiered investor perks through WeFunder, including limited-edition merchandise, product bundles, early access to new releases, and exclusive behind-the-scenes updates. Investor Communications & Governance Transparency and accountability are core to how we operate. Investors receive: Quarterly updates on progress, wins, challenges, and financials An Annual Year-End Report summarizing the company’s performance and strategy Access to attend board meetings, which occur quarterly and additionally as needed during exigent circumstances Periodic Q&A sessions and opportunities to engage directly with leadership We see every investor as a true partner in our growth, and we’re committed to building long-term trust through open communication. If you'd like to review more details or set up a time to talk, I’d be happy to connect. You can also view our live campaign here: 🔗 wefunder.com/yaupon.brothers Thanks again for your interest — we’d love to welcome you to the Yaupon movement. Warm regards, Bryon White Co-Founder & CEO 📩 bryon@yauponbrothers.com 🌿 www.yauponbrothers.com - Q: How long before you can harvest after initially planting a Yaupon plant? You show a lot of projected growth but will you have the plants/land to sustain all that when the time comes? Love your teas! - A: Hi Dana, great question. It takes roughly three years from planting to harvest. We have already planted around 300,000 trees, and some of those are already at or near maturity. So, we feel confident our supply chain will be ready to accommodate the projected growth. - Q: Hello, I was wondering if you could give me some insight into your per unit costs and gross margins. For 2022 your net margins were 59%, but in the google slide that include your financial projections, you estimate that your gross margin will be around 30%. I was curious why there may be such a big shift and what your actual per unit costs are or what you expect them to be going forward. Thank you! - A: Hi Jack, my apologies for the delay in responding! If you will kindly share your email with me at bryon@yauponbrothers.com, I can send you an updated proforma, but to answer your question, we have updated the financial projections to reflect an estimated profit margin between 50-58% over the next three years, considering some variable costs associated to earning new sales channels. - Q: With the Regulation of Crowdfunding deals the amount we can invest per year across this platform will hit the limit, so We were wondering if you have provisions to accept alternative outright financing. With that, we can cover over 60% of your target raise. Kindly reach out to me at HornbeckInvestment@protonmail.com so we discuss further. - Q: Hi, a question on the below. Does the company we are investing in here own this real estate or who does and what are the economic terms for that? “We have 80,000 acres of Yaupon under company management with plans to scale as the company does.” - A: Hi, and thanks for the question! Most of the real estate used for harvesting and cultivation is not owned by our company, but it owned either by the government or private landholders. However, all of the land is under some sort of management or harvesting agreement with our company. For example, we have a contract with the State of Florida which allows us to harvest Yaupon on more than 70,000 acres that the state owns, and the term of that agreement is five years. We do own some land which we use mostly for testing or as source material for our propagated trees, but it’s less than 20 acres. The farms that grow for us are privately owned and all of the cultivation is done on a contract basis where our company buys everything that is produced at a guaranteed price. So, the way to look at this is that you’re not really investing in real estate - we do not have much in terms of real estate holdings - but you would be investing in a supply chain which is secured by numerous contracts and guarantees scalability and safety of the supply chain. We DO own all of our own manufacturing equipment and facility, and we don’t outsource any factor of production. Hope that helps! - Q: Was down until I see that you're sending your profits to Ukraine, money is already being stolen from me and sent there through billions of dollars in taxes, I don't need my investment money stolen and sent there too. How about keeping your "American company" America focused? Apparently that's impossible to do nowadays. Good luck! - Q: When would you say is the most likely timeline or timeframe approximately say for the start of you raise in terms of like months. thanks - A: For the equity raise, we are already working on that, so it is likely the SAFE's will convert to equity in the next six months. - Q: I would love to support your company/product/mission but would first like to confirm that you are a cruelty free company. - A: Hi Tiffany- thank you for asking and yes! We do not use any animal products, and we are certified organic! Hope that helps! Kindly, Bryon - Q: I'm a big fan of your loose leaf tea of the month series (drinking it now, actually). For the $1.86M that you're looking raise, what do you plan to do with the capital? Also, I see the Projected P&L has profitability in 2023 - are you profitable for 2022? - A: Hi Carolyn, in the slide deck on the investment page, there is a slide dedicated to use of funds. But in a nutshell, most of it is operating capital used to scale operations and production, with the second largest chunk going to marketing, promotion, and SG&A. We actually do not expect significant profitability until 2025 - the capital will help us make critical investments in sales and finance positions as well out outlay to support retail expansion, which helps us get to the point. Hope that provides some clarity!