Use these links to rapidly review the document
TABLE OF CONTENTS
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA INDEX TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Table of Contents

Table of Contents

As filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on September 15,November 2, 2020

Registration No. 333-            333-248803


UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549



Amendment No. 2
to

FORM S-4
REGISTRATION STATEMENT
UNDER
THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933



TRINE ACQUISITION CORP.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)



Delaware 6770 82-2044042
(State or other jurisdiction of
incorporation or organization)
 (Primary Standard Industrial
Classification Code Number)
 (I.R.S. Employer
Identification Number)

405 Lexington Avenue, 48th Floor
New York, NY 10174
Telephone: (212) 503-2855
(Address, including zip code, and telephone number, including area code, of registrant's principal executive offices)



Mark J. Coleman, Esq.
Executive Vice President and General Counsel
405 Lexington Avenue, 48th Floor
New York, NY 10174
Telephone: (212) 503-2850
(Name, address, including zip code, and telephone number, including area code, of agent for service)



Copies to:

Edward Ackerman
Jeffrey D. Marell
Raphael M. Russo
Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton &
Garrison LLP
1285 Avenue of the Americas
New York, NY 10019
Telephone: (212) 373-3000
 Ric Fulop
Meg Broderick
Elizabeth Linardos
Desktop Metal, Inc.
63 Third Avenue
Burlington, MA 01803
Telephone: (978) 224-1244
 John H. Chory
Susan L. Mazur
Ryan J. Maierson
Emily E. Taylor
Latham & Watkins LLP
200 Clarendon Street, 27th Floor
Boston, MA 02116
Telephone: (617) 948-6000



Approximate date of commencement of proposed sale of the securities to the public:
As soon as practicable after this registration statement becomes effective and upon completion of the merger.

          If the securities being registered on this Form are being offered in connection with the formation of a holding company and there is compliance with General Instruction G, check the following box:    o

          If this Form is filed to register additional securities for an offering pursuant to Rule 462(b) under the Securities Act, check the following box and list the Securities Act registration statement number of the earlier effective registration statement for the same offering.    o

          If this Form is a post-effective amendment filed pursuant to Rule 462(d) under the Securities Act, check the following box and list the Securities Act registration statement number of the earlier effective registration statement for the same offering.    o

          Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, a smaller reporting company, or 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. (Check one):

Large accelerated filer o Accelerated filer o Non-accelerated filer ý Smaller reporting company o

Emerging growth company ý

          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. o

          If applicable, place an ý in the box to designate the appropriate rule provision relied upon in conducting this transaction:

          Exchange Act Rule 13e-4(i) (Cross-Border Issuer Tender Offer) o

          Exchange Act Rule 14d-1(d) (Cross-Border Third-Party Tender Offer) o



          The registrant hereby amends this registration statement on such date or dates as may be necessary to delay its effective date until the registrant shall file a further amendment which specifically states that this registration statement shall thereafter become effective in accordance with Section 8(a) of the Securities Act of 1933 or until the registration statement shall become effective on such date as the Securities and Exchange Commission, acting pursuant to said Section 8(a), may determine.

CALCULATION OF REGISTRATION FEE

        
 
Title of each class of securities
to be registered

 Amount to be
registered

 Proposed maximum
offering price per
unit

 Proposed maximum
aggregate offering
price

 Amount of
registration fee

 

Class A Common Stock, par value $0.0001 per share

 183,000,000(1) N/A $2,100,840,000(2) $272,690(3)

 

(1)
Based on the maximum number of common stock, par value $0.0001 per share ("Class A common stock"), of the registrant estimated to be issued in connection with the merger described herein (the "Business Combination"). This number is based on the product of (a) the sum of (i) 31,716,208, the aggregate number of shares of common stock, par value $0.0001 per share, of Desktop Metal, Inc. ("Desktop Metal"), outstanding as of August 26, 2020, which number excludes shares of Desktop Metal common stock owned by Trine Acquisition Corp. ("Trine") or Desktop Metal (as treasury stock or otherwise), (ii) 100,038,109, the aggregate number of shares of preferred stock, par value $0.0001 per share, of Desktop Metal, outstanding as of August 26, 2020, which number excludes shares of Desktop Metal common stock owned by Trine or Desktop Metal (as treasury stock or otherwise), (iii) 566,947, the aggregate number of shares of Desktop Metal common stock issuable upon the cashless exercise of the Desktop Metal warrants outstanding as of August 26, 2020 and (iv) 17,416,528, the aggregate number of shares of common stock of Desktop Metal issuable pursuant to outstanding stock options, restricted stock awards and restricted stock unit awards of Desktop Metal outstanding as of August 26, 2020, and (b) an exchange ratio of 1.221218442.

(2)
Pursuant to Rules 457(c), 457(f)(1) and 457(f)(3) promulgated under the Securities Act and solely for the purpose of calculating the registration fee, the proposed maximum aggregate offering price is an amount equal to $2,100,840,000, calculated as the product of (i) 183,000,000 shares of Class A common stock, the estimated maximum number of shares of Class A common stock that may be issued in the Business Combination in exchange for cancelled shares of common stock and preferred stock and awards of Desktop Metal, Inc. (calculated as shown in note (1) above) and (ii) $11.48, the average of the high and low trading prices of Class A common stock on September 9, 2020 (within five business days prior to the date of this Registration Statement).

(3)
Calculated pursuant to Rule 457 of the Securities Act by multiplying the proposed maximum aggregate offering price of securities to be registered by 0.0001298.

   


Table of Contents

The information in this preliminary proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus is not complete and may be changed. We may not sell these securities until the registration statement filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission is effective. This preliminary proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus is not an offer to sell these securities and it is not soliciting an offer to buy these securities in any state where the offer or sale is not permitted.

PRELIMINARY PROXY STATEMENT/CONSENT SOLICITATION STATEMENT/PROSPECTUS
DATED SEPTEMBER 15,NOVEMBER 2, 2020, SUBJECT TO COMPLETION

GRAPHIC

Dear Stockholder:

           On August 26, 2020, Trine Acquisition Corp. ("Trine") and Sparrow Merger Sub, Inc. ("Merger Sub"), a wholly owned subsidiary of Trine, entered into an Agreement and Plan of Merger (as it may be amended and/or restated from time to time, the "Merger Agreement") with Desktop Metal, Inc. ("Desktop Metal"). If the Merger Agreement is adopted by Desktop Metal's stockholders, the Merger Agreement and the transactions contemplated thereby, including the issuance of Class A common stock to be issued as the merger consideration, is approved by Trine's stockholders, and the business combination is subsequently completed, Merger Sub will merge with and into Desktop Metal with Desktop Metal surviving the merger as a wholly owned subsidiary of Trine (the "Business Combination").

           Each share of each series of Desktop Metal preferred stock issued and outstanding immediately prior to the effective time of the Business Combination (other than shares owned by Desktop Metal as treasury stock or dissenting shares) will be converted into the right to receive a number of shares of Trine Class A common stock (deemed to have a value of $10 per share) with an aggregate implied value equal to the product of the liquidation amount (as described in Desktop Metal's certificate of incorporation ("Desktop Metal's charter")) for such series of preferred stock multiplied by the number of shares of such series of Desktop Metal preferred stock outstanding immediately prior to the effective time as if the Business Combination were a Deemed Liquidation Event (as defined in Desktop Metal's charter) (the "aggregate preferred stock consideration") divided by the number of shares of such series of Desktop Metal preferred stock outstanding immediately prior to the effective time of the Business Combination.

           Each share of Desktop Metal common stock issued and outstanding immediately prior to the effective time of the Business Combination (other than shares owned by Desktop Metal as treasury stock or dissenting shares) will be converted into the right to receive a number of shares of Trine Class A common stock (deemed to have a value of $10 per share) with an aggregate implied value equal to $1,830,000,000 minus the aggregate implied value of the aggregate preferred stock consideration divided by the number of shares of Desktop Metal common stock outstanding on a fully diluted basis immediately prior to the effective time of the Business Combination.

           Based on the number of shares of Desktop Metal preferred stock outstanding, the number of shares of Desktop Metal common stock outstanding and the number of outstanding stock options, warrants, restricted stock awards and restricted stock unit awards of Desktop Metal, in each case as of ,August 26, 2020, (i) the estimated exchange ratio of shares of Trine's Class A common stock for each share of Desktop Metal common stock and preferred stock is 1.221218442, (ii) the total number of shares of Trine's Class A common stock expected to be issued in connection with the Business Combination is approximately            , (iii) and holders of shares of Desktop Metal common stock as of immediately prior to the closing of the Business Combination will hold, in the aggregate, approximately        % of the issued and outstanding shares of Trine's Class A common stock immediately following the closing of the Business Combination. Trine's units, Class A common stock and public warrants are publicly traded on the New York Stock Exchange (the "NYSE"). We intend to apply to list Trine's Class A common stock and public warrants on the NYSE under the symbols "DM" and "DM.WS", respectively, upon the closing of the Business Combination. Trine will not have units traded following closing of the Business Combination. Following the closing of the Business Combination, Trine intends to change its name to Desktop Metal, Inc.

           In connection with the execution of the Merger Agreement, Trine entered into subscription agreements (together with any subscription agreements to be entered into by Trine following the execution of the Merger Agreement, collectively, the "Subscription Agreements") with certain parties subscribing for shares of Class A common stock (together with any parties entering into Subscription Agreements following the execution of the Merger Agreement, the "Subscribers") pursuant to which the Subscribers have agreed to purchase, and Trine has agreed to sell the Subscribers, an aggregate of 27,497,500 shares of Class A common stock, for a purchase price of $10.00 per share and at an aggregate purchase price of $274,975,000. The obligations to consummate the transactions contemplated by the Subscription Agreements are conditioned upon, among other things, customary closing conditions and the consummation of the transactions contemplated by the Merger Agreement. See "Other Agreements—Subscription Agreements".

           Trine will hold a special meeting of stockholders (the "Special Meeting") to consider matters relating to the proposed Business Combination. Trine and Desktop Metal cannot complete the Business Combination unless Trine's stockholders consent to the approval of the Merger Agreement and the transactions contemplated thereby, including the issuance of Trine's Class A common stock to be issued as the merger consideration, and Desktop Metal's stockholders consent to adoption and approval of the Merger Agreement and the transactions contemplated thereby. Trine and Desktop Metal are sending you this proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus to ask you to vote in favor of these and the other matters described in this proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus.

           The Special Meeting will be held at 9:00 a.m. eastern time, on                        , 2020, in virtual format.

           YOUR VOTE IS VERY IMPORTANT, REGARDLESS OF THE NUMBER OF SHARES OF COMMON STOCK YOU OWN. To ensure your representation at the Special Meeting, please complete and return the enclosed proxy card or submit your proxy by following the instructions contained in this proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus and on your proxy card. Please submit your proxy promptly whether or not you expect to attend the meeting. Submitting a proxy now will NOT prevent you from being able to vote in person (which would include presence at a virtual meeting) at the meeting. If you hold your shares in "street name", you should instruct your broker, bank or other nominee how to vote in accordance with the voting instruction form you receive from your broker, bank or other nominee.

           The Trine board of directors has unanimously approved the Merger Agreement and the transactions contemplated thereby and recommends that Trine stockholders vote "FOR" the approval of the Merger Agreement, "FOR" the issuance of Class A common stock to be issued as the merger consideration and "FOR" the other matters to be considered at the Special Meeting.

           The Desktop Metal board of directors has unanimously approved the Merger Agreement and the transactions contemplated thereby and recommends that Desktop Metal stockholders consent to adopt and approve in all respects the Merger Agreement and the transactions contemplated thereby (the "Desktop Metal Merger Proposal").

           This proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus provides you with detailed information about the proposed Business Combination. It also contains or references information about Trine and Desktop Metal and certain related matters. You are encouraged to read this proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus carefully. In particular, you should read the "Risk Factors" section beginning on page 2526 for a discussion of the risks you should consider in evaluating the proposed Business Combination and how it will affect you.

           If you have any questions regarding the accompanying proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus, you may contact Innisfree M&A Incorporated, Trine's proxy solicitor, at (877) 456-3463.

Sincerely,

Leo Hindery, Jr.
Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

/s/ LEO HINDERY, JR.

Leo Hindery, Jr.
Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

           Neither the Securities and Exchange Commission nor any state securities commission has approved or disapproved of the Business Combination, the issuance of shares of Class A common stock in connection with the Business Combination or the other transactions described in this proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus, or passed upon the adequacy or accuracy of the disclosure in this proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus. Any representation to the contrary is a criminal offense.

           This proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus is dated                        , 2020, and is first being mailed to stockholders of Trine on or about                        , 2020.


Table of Contents

TRINE ACQUISITION CORP.
405 Lexington Avenue, 48th Floor
New York, NY 10174

NOTICE OF
SPECIAL MEETING OF STOCKHOLDERS
TO BE HELD ON                        , 2020

TO THE STOCKHOLDERS OF TRINE ACQUISITION CORP.

        NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a special meeting of stockholders of Trine Acquisition Corp. ("Trine"), a Delaware corporation, will be held at 9:00 a.m. eastern time, on                         , 2020, in virtual format (the "Special Meeting"). You are cordially invited to attend the Special Meeting, which will be held for the following purposes:


Table of Contents


Table of Contents

        These items of business are described in the attached proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus, which we encourage you to read in its entirety before voting. Only holders of record of Trine common stock at the close of business on ,October 30, 2020 (the "Trine Record Date") are entitled to notice of the Special Meeting and to vote and have their votes counted at the Special Meeting and any adjournments or postponements of the Special Meeting.

        Pursuant to Trine's Existing Charter, Trine will provide holders of its Public Shares with the opportunity to redeem their Public Shares for cash equal to their pro rata share of the aggregate amount on deposit in Trine's trust account, which holds the proceeds of the Trine IPO (as defined herein), as of two business days prior to the consummation of the transactions contemplated by the Business Combination Proposal (including interest earned on the funds held in the trust account and not previously released to Trine to pay its taxes). For illustrative purposes, based on funds in the trust account of approximately $$305.4 million on ,October 30, 2020, the estimated per share redemption price would have been approximately $            ,$10.17, excluding additional interest earned on the funds held in the trust account and not previously released to Trine to pay taxes. Public stockholders (as defined herein) may elect to redeem their shares even if they vote for the Business Combination Proposal. A holder of Public Shares, together with any affiliate of his or any other person with whom he is acting in concert or as a "group" (as defined in Section 13(d)(3) of the Exchange Act), will be restricted from seeking redemption rights with respect to more than 15% of the Public Shares without the consent of Trine. Accordingly, all Public Shares in excess of 15% held by a public stockholder, together with any affiliate of such holder or any other person with whom such holder is acting in concert or as a "group," will not be redeemed for cash without the consent of Trine. Trine Sponsor IH, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company (the "Sponsor"), and Trine's directors and officers have agreed to waive their redemption rights in connection with the consummation of the Business Combination with respect to any shares of common stock they may hold. Currently, the Initial Stockholders (as defined herein) own 20% of Trine common stock, consisting of the Founder Shares (as defined herein). Founder Shares will be excluded from the pro rata calculation used to determine the per-share redemption price. The Sponsor and Trine's directors and officers have agreed to vote any shares of common stock owned by them in favor of each of the proposals presented at the Special Meeting.

        After careful consideration, Trine's board of directors (the "Trine Board") has determined that the Business Combination Proposal, the Charter Amendment Proposal, the Charter Approval Proposal, the Governance Proposal, the Director Election Proposal, the Merger Issuance Proposal, the Subscription Agreements Proposal, the Incentive Plan Proposal and the Adjournment Proposal are fair to and in the best interests of Trine and its stockholders and unanimously recommends that you vote or give instruction to vote "FOR" the Business Combination Proposal, "FOR" the Charter Amendment Proposal, "FOR" the Charter Approval Proposal, "FOR" the Governance Proposal, "FOR" the Director Election Proposal, "FOR" the Merger Issuance Proposal, "FOR" the Subscription Agreements Proposal, "FOR" the Incentive Plan Proposal and "FOR" the Adjournment Proposal, if presented.

        Consummation of the Business Combination is conditional on approval of each of the Business Combination Proposal, the Charter Amendment Proposal, the Charter Approval Proposal, the Merger Issuance Proposal, the Subscription Agreements Proposal and the Incentive Plan Proposal. If any of these proposals is not approved, the other proposals, except the Adjournment Proposal, will not be presented to stockholders for a vote. The proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus accompanying this notice explains the Merger Agreement and the transactions contemplated thereby, as well as the proposals to be considered at the Special Meeting. Please review the proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus carefully.


Table of Contents

        All Trine stockholders are cordially invited to attend the Special Meeting in virtual format. Trine stockholders may attend, vote and examine the list of Trine stockholders entitled to vote at the Special Meeting by visiting            and entering the control number found on their proxy card, voting instruction form or notice included in their proxy materials. In light of public health concerns regarding the coronavirus ("COVID-19") pandemic, the Special Meeting will be held in virtual meeting format only. You will not be able to attend the Special Meeting physically. To ensure your representation at the Special Meeting, you are urged to complete, sign, date and return the enclosed proxy card as soon as possible. If your shares are held in an account at a brokerage firm or bank, you must instruct your broker or bank on how to vote your shares.

        Your vote is important regardless of the number of shares you own. Whether you plan to attend the Special Meeting or not, please sign, date and return the enclosed proxy card as soon as possible in the envelope provided. If your shares are held in "street name" or are in a margin or similar account, you should contact your broker to ensure that votes related to the shares you beneficially own are properly counted.

        Thank you for your participation. We look forward to your continued support.

  By Order of the Board of Directors

 

 

/s/ LEO HINDERY, JR.

Leo Hindery, Jr.
Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

                        , 2020

        IF YOU RETURN YOUR PROXY CARD WITHOUT AN INDICATION OF HOW YOU WISH TO VOTE, YOUR SHARES WILL BE VOTED IN FAVOR OF EACH OF THE PROPOSALS. TO EXERCISE YOUR REDEMPTION RIGHTS, YOU MUST ELECT TO HAVE TRINE REDEEM YOUR SHARES FOR A PRO RATA PORTION OF THE FUNDS HELD IN THE TRUST ACCOUNT AND TENDER YOUR SHARES TO TRINE'S TRANSFER AGENT AT LEAST TWO (2) BUSINESS DAYS PRIOR TO THE VOTE AT THE SPECIAL MEETING. YOU MAY TENDER YOUR SHARES BY EITHER DELIVERING YOUR SHARE CERTIFICATE TO THE TRANSFER AGENT OR BY DELIVERING YOUR SHARES ELECTRONICALLY USING THE DEPOSITORY TRUST COMPANY'S DWAC (DEPOSIT AND WITHDRAWAL AT CUSTODIAN) SYSTEM. IF THE BUSINESS COMBINATION IS NOT COMPLETED, THEN THESE SHARES WILL NOT BE REDEEMED FOR CASH. IF YOU HOLD THE SHARES IN STREET NAME, YOU WILL NEED TO INSTRUCT THE ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE AT YOUR BANKS OR BROKERS TO WITHDRAW THE SHARES FROM YOUR ACCOUNT IN ORDER TO EXERCISE YOUR REDEMPTION RIGHTS. SEE "TRINE'S SPECIAL MEETING OF STOCKHOLDERS—REDEMPTION RIGHTS" FOR MORE SPECIFIC INSTRUCTIONS.


Table of Contents

LOGO

Desktop Metal, Inc.
63 Third Avenue
Burlington, MA 01803

NOTICE OF SOLICITATION OF WRITTEN CONSENT

To Stockholders of Desktop Metal, Inc.:

        Pursuant to an Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of August 26, 2020 (as it may be amended and/or restated from time to time, the "Merger Agreement"), by and among Trine Acquisition Corp. ("Trine"), Sparrow Merger Sub, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Trine ("Merger Sub"), and Desktop Metal, Inc. ("Desktop Metal"), Merger Sub will be merged with and into Desktop Metal, with Desktop Metal surviving the merger as a wholly owned subsidiary of Trine (the "Business Combination").

        The accompanying proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus is being delivered to you on behalf of the Desktop Metal board of directors to request that Desktop Metal stockholders as of the record date of ,August 25, 2020 (the "Desktop Metal Record Date") approve the adoption of the Merger Agreement and the Business Combination by executing and returning the written consent furnished with the accompanying proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus (the "Desktop Metal Merger Proposal").

        The accompanying proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus describes the Merger Agreement, the Business Combination and the actions to be taken in connection with the Business Combination and provides additional information about the parties involved. Please give this information your careful attention. A copy of the Merger Agreement is attached as Annex A to the accompanying proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus.

        A summary of the appraisal that may be available to you is described in "Appraisal Rights" beginning on page 271269 of the accompanying proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus. Please note that if you wish to exercise appraisal rights you must not sign and return a written consent approving the adoption of the Merger Agreement and the Business Combination. However, so long as you do not return a written consent at all, it is not necessary to affirmatively vote against or disapprove the adoption of the Merger Agreement or the Business Combination. In addition, you must take all other steps necessary to perfect your appraisal rights.

        The Desktop Metal board of directors has considered the Business Combination and the terms of the Merger Agreement and unanimously approved and declared advisable the Merger Agreement and the Business Combination, upon the terms and conditions set forth in the Merger Agreement, and unanimously determined that the Merger Agreement and the Business Combination are in the best interests of Desktop Metal and its stockholders.

        Please complete, date and sign the written consent furnished with the accompanying proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus and return it promptly to Desktop Metal by one of the means described in "Desktop Metal's Solicitation of Written Consents" beginning on page 7374 of the accompanying proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus.

  By Order of the Board of Directors,

 

 

/s/ RIC FULOP

Ric Fulop
Chairman of the Board of Directors and Chief Executive Officer

Table of Contents


TABLE OF CONTENTS

 
 Page 

BASIS OF PRESENTATION AND GLOSSARY

  i 

TRADEMARKS, TRADE NAMES AND SERVICE MARKS

  iii 

QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

  iv 

SUMMARY

  1 

Summary Historical Financial Data For Trine

  15 

Summary Historical Financial Data For Desktop Metal

  16 

Summary Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Combined Financial Information

  18 

Unaudited Historical Comparative and Pro Forma Combined Per Share Data of Trine and Desktop Metal

  20 

MARKET PRICE AND DIVIDEND INFORMATION

  2122 

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS; MARKET, RANKING AND OTHER INDUSTRY DATA

  2223 

RISK FACTORS

  2526 

UNAUDITED PRO FORMA CONDENSED COMBINED FINANCIAL INFORMATION

  6162 

DESKTOP METAL'S SOLICITATION OF WRITTEN CONSENTS

  7374 

TRINE'S SPECIAL MEETING OF STOCKHOLDERS

  7576 

PROPOSAL NO. 1—THE BUSINESS COMBINATION PROPOSAL

  8384 

PROPOSAL NO. 2—THE CHARTER AMENDMENT PROPOSAL

  8485 

PROPOSAL NO. 3—THE CHARTER APPROVAL PROPOSAL

  8586 

PROPOSAL NO. 4—THE GOVERNANCE PROPOSAL

  8889 

PROPOSAL NO. 5—THE DIRECTOR ELECTION PROPOSAL

  8990 

PROPOSAL NO. 6—THE MERGER ISSUANCE PROPOSAL

  9293 

PROPOSAL NO. 7—THE SUBSCRIPTION AGREEMENTS PROPOSAL

  9394 

PROPOSAL NO. 8—THE INCENTIVE PLAN PROPOSAL

  9495 

PROPOSAL NO. 9—THE ADJOURNMENT PROPOSAL

  103 

INFORMATION ABOUT TRINE

  104 

MANAGEMENT OF TRINE

  106 

SELECTED HISTORICAL FINANCIAL INFORMATION OF TRINE

  113 

TRINE'S MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

  114 

SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT OF TRINE AND THE POST-COMBINATION COMPANY

  119 

INFORMATION ABOUT DESKTOP METAL

  122 

MANAGEMENT OF DESKTOP METAL

  139 

SELECTED HISTORICAL CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL INFORMATION OF DESKTOP METAL

  148 

DESKTOP METAL'S MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

  150149 

SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT OF DESKTOP METAL

  167166 

MANAGEMENT OF THE POST-COMBINATION COMPANY FOLLOWING THE BUSINESS COMBINATION

  172171 

THE BUSINESS COMBINATION

  177176 

REGULATORY APPROVALS REQUIRED FOR THE BUSINESS COMBINATION

  197199 

ANTICIPATED ACCOUNTING TREATMENT

  198200 

PUBLIC TRADING MARKETS

  199201 

THE MERGER AGREEMENT

  200202 

OTHER AGREEMENTS

  224226 

MATERIAL U.S. FEDERAL INCOME TAX CONSEQUENCES

  227229 

COMPARISON OF STOCKHOLDERS' RIGHTS

  234236 

DESCRIPTION OF CAPITAL STOCK OF THE POST-COMBINATION COMPANY

  251253 

Table of Contents

 
 Page 

CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

  256258 

PRICE RANGE OF SECURITIES AND DIVIDENDS

  263265 

EXPERTS

  264266 

LEGAL MATTERS

  265267 

OTHER MATTERS

  266268 

APPRAISAL RIGHTS

  267269 

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA INDEX TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

  F-1 

ANNEX A—AGREEMENT AND PLAN OF MERGER

  A-i 

ANNEX B—PROPOSED SECOND AMENDED AND RESTATED CERTIFICATE OF INCORPORATION OF TRINE

  B-1 

ANNEX C—GENERAL CORPORATION LAW OF THE STATE OF DELAWARE SECTION 262

  C-1 

ANNEX D—DESKTOP METAL, INC. 2020 INCENTIVE AWARD PLAN

  D-1 

Table of Contents


BASIS OF PRESENTATION AND GLOSSARY

        As used in this proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus, unless otherwise noted or the context otherwise requires, references to:

        "Available Cash" are to, as of immediately prior to the consummation of the Business Combination, the aggregate amount equal to (i) the cash available to be released from Trine's trust account; plus (ii) all other cash and cash equivalents; minus (iii) the aggregate amount of cash proceeds that will be required to satisfy the redemption of any Public Shares pursuant to the redemption offer (to the extent not already paid); plus (iv) $274,975,000;

        "Code" are to the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended;

        "common stock" are to Trine's Class A common stock and Class B common stock;

        "Company Owners" are to the stockholders of Desktop Metal prior to the closing of the Business Combination;

        "Completion Window" are to the period following the completion of the Trine IPO at the end of which, if Trine has not completed its initial business combination, it will (i) cease all operations except for the purpose of winding up, (ii) as promptly as reasonably possible but not more than ten business days thereafter, redeem 100% of the outstanding Public Shares, at a per-share price, payable in cash, equal to the aggregate amount then on deposit in the trust account, including interest earned on the funds held in the trust account and not previously released to Trine to pay its taxes (less up to $100,000 of interest to pay dissolution expenses), divided by the number of then outstanding Public Shares, which redemption will completely extinguish public stockholders' rights as stockholders (including the right to receive further liquidating distributions, if any), subject to applicable law, and (iii) as promptly as reasonably possible following such redemption, subject to the approval of Trine's remaining stockholders and the Trine Board, dissolve and liquidate, subject to Trine's obligations under Delaware law to provide for claims of creditors and the requirements of other applicable law. The Completion Window ends on March 19, 2021;

        "DGCL" are to the Delaware General Corporation Law, as amended;

        "Exchange Act" are to the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended;

        "Founder Shares" are to shares of Trine's Class B common stock and Trine's Class A common stock issued upon the automatic conversion thereof at the time of Trine's initial business combination as provided herein. The 7,503,750 Founder Shares are held of record by the Initial Stockholders as of the Trine Record Date;

        "GAAP" are to generally accepted accounting principles in the United States, as applied on a consistent basis.

        "Initial Stockholders" are to the Sponsor and certain directors of Trine who hold Founder Shares as of the date of this proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus;

        "Investment Company Act" are to the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended.

        "Post-Combination Company" are to Trine following the consummation of the Business Combination and the other transactions contemplated by the Merger Agreement.

        "private placement warrants" are to Trine's warrants issued to the Sponsor in a private placement simultaneously with the closing of the Trine IPO;

        "Public Shares" are to shares of Trine's Class A common stock sold as part of the units in the Trine IPO (whether they were purchased in the Trine IPO or thereafter in the open market);

i


Table of Contents

        "public stockholders" are to the holders of Trine's Public Shares, including the Sponsor and Trine's directors and officers to the extent the Sponsor and Trine's directors or officers purchase Public Shares; provided, that each of their status as a "public stockholder" shall only exist with respect to such Public Shares;

        "public warrants" are to Trine's warrants sold as part of the units in the Trine IPO (whether they were purchased in the Trine IPO or thereafter in the open market);

        "SEC" are to the Securities and Exchange Commission;

        "Securities Act" are to the Securities Act of 1933, as amended;

        "Sponsor" are to Trine Sponsor IH, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company;

        "Sponsor Agreement" are to the Sponsor Agreement, dated August 26, 2020, among Desktop Metal, Trine, the Sponsor and Trine's directors and officers;

        "Trine IPO" are to the initial public offering by Trine which closed on March 19, 2019;

        "Trine warrants" are to the warrants exercisable to purchase Class A common stock of Trine;

        "VWAP" are to volume weighted average price; and

        "warrants" are to the public warrants and the private placement warrants.

        Unless specified otherwise, amounts in this proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus are presented in United States ("U.S.") dollars.

        Defined terms in the financial statements contained in this proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus have the meanings ascribed to them in the financial statements.

ii


Table of Contents


TRADEMARKS, TRADE NAMES AND SERVICE MARKS

        Trine, Desktop Metal and Desktop Metal's subsidiaries own or have rights to trademarks, trade names and service marks that they use in connection with the operation of their business. In addition, their names, logos and website names and addresses are their trademarks or service marks. Other trademarks, trade names and service marks appearing in this proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus are the property of their respective owners. Solely for convenience, in some cases, the trademarks, trade names and service marks referred to in this proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus are listed without the applicable ®, ™ and SM symbols, but they will assert, to the fullest extent under applicable law, their rights to these trademarks, trade names and service marks.

iii


Table of Contents


QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

        The questions and answers below highlight only selected information from this proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus and only briefly address some commonly asked questions about the Business Combination, the Special Meeting, the proposals to be presented at the Special Meeting, including with respect to the proposed Business Combination, and the consent solicitation. The following questions and answers do not include all the information that is important to Trine and Desktop Metal stockholders. You are urged to read carefully this entire proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus, including the Annexes and the other documents referred to herein, to fully understand the Business Combination, the voting procedures for the Special Meeting and the consent solicitation.

QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS ABOUT THE BUSINESS COMBINATION

Q:    WHAT IS THE BUSINESS COMBINATION?

A:
Trine, Merger Sub, a wholly owned subsidiary of Trine, and Desktop Metal have entered into the Merger Agreement, pursuant to which Merger Sub will merge with and into Desktop Metal with Desktop Metal surviving the merger as a wholly owned subsidiary of Trine.

Q:    WHY AM I RECEIVING THIS DOCUMENT?

A:
Trine is sending this proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus to its stockholders to help them decide how to vote their shares of Trine common stock with respect to the matters to be considered at the Special Meeting. Desktop Metal is also providing these consent solicitation materials to the holders of Desktop Metal common stock and preferred stock in order to solicit such holders' written consent to the Desktop Metal Merger Proposal.

iv


Table of Contents

Q:    WHAT WILL DESKTOP METAL STOCKHOLDERS RECEIVE IN THE BUSINESS COMBINATION?

A:
If the Business Combination is completed, each share of each series of Desktop Metal preferred stock issued and outstanding immediately prior to the effective time of the Business Combination (other than shares owned by Desktop Metal as treasury stock or dissenting shares) will be converted into the right to receive a number of shares of Trine Class A common stock (deemed to have a value of $10 per share) with an aggregate implied value equal to the product of the liquidation amount (as described in Desktop Metal's charter) for such series of preferred stock multiplied by the number of shares of such series of Desktop Metal preferred stock outstanding immediately prior to the effective time as if the Business Combination were a Deemed Liquidation Event (as defined in Desktop Metal's charter) (the "aggregate preferred stock consideration") divided by the number of shares of such series of Desktop Metal preferred stock outstanding immediately prior to the effective time of the Business Combination.

Q:    WHEN DO YOU EXPECT THE BUSINESS COMBINATION TO BE COMPLETED?

A:
It is currently anticipated that the Business Combination will be consummated promptly following the Special Meeting, which is set for                        , 2020; however, such meeting could be adjourned, as described herein. However, neither Trine nor Desktop Metal can assure you of when or if the Business Combination will be completed and it is possible that factors outside of the control of both companies could result in the Business Combination being completed at a different time or not at all. Trine must first obtain the approval of its stockholders for certain of the proposals set forth in this proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus for their approval, Desktop Metal must first obtain the written consent of its stockholders for the Business Combination and Trine and Desktop Metal must also first obtain certain necessary regulatory approvals and satisfy other closing conditions. See "The Merger Agreement—Conditions to the Business Combination" beginning on page 224.222.

Q:    WHAT HAPPENS IF THE BUSINESS COMBINATION IS NOT COMPLETED?

A:
If the Business Combination is not completed, Desktop Metal stockholders will not receive any consideration for their shares of Desktop Metal capital stock. Instead, Desktop Metal will remain an independent company. Under specified circumstances, Desktop Metal will be required to pay to Trine a fee with respect to the termination of the Merger Agreement. See "The Merger Agreement—Termination" and "Risk Factors" beginning on page 225223 and page 25,26, respectively.

v


Table of Contents

QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS ABOUT TRINE'S SPECIAL STOCKHOLDER MEETING

Q:    WHEN AND WHERE IS THE SPECIAL MEETING?

A:
The Special Meeting will be held at 9:00 a.m. eastern time, on                        , 2020, in virtual format. Trine stockholders may attend, vote and examine the list of Trine stockholders entitled to vote at the Special Meeting by visiting                        and entering the control number found on their proxy card, voting instruction form or notice included in their proxy materials. In light of public health concerns regarding the COVID-19 pandemic, the Special Meeting will be held in virtual meeting format only. You will not be able to attend the Special Meeting physically.

Q:    WHAT AM I BEING ASKED TO VOTE ON AND WHY IS THIS APPROVAL NECESSARY?

A:
The stockholders of Trine are being asked to vote on the following:

1.
A proposal to adopt the Merger Agreement and the transactions contemplated thereby. See the section entitled "Proposal No. 1—The Business Combination Proposal."

2.
A proposal to adopt the Charter Amendment in the form attached to the Merger Agreement as Exhibit D. See the section entitled "Proposal No. 2—The Charter Amendment Proposal."

3.
A proposal to adopt the Proposed Charter in the form attached hereto as Annex B. See the section entitled "Proposal No. 3—The Charter Approval Proposal."

4.
A separate proposal with respect to certain governance provisions in the Proposed Charter, which are being separately presented in accordance with SEC requirementsorder to give holders of Trine's common stock the opportunity to present their separate views on important corporate governance procedures and which will be voted upon on a non-binding advisory basis. See the section entitled "Proposal No. 4—The Governance Proposal."

5.
A proposal to elect 1110 directors to serve on the Board until the 2021 annual meeting of stockholders, in the case of Class I directors, the 2022 annual meeting of stockholders, in the case of Class II directors, and the 2023 annual meeting of stockholders, in the case of Class III directors, and, in each case, until their respective successors are duly elected and qualified. See the section entitled "Proposal No. 5—The Director Election Proposal."

6.
A proposal to approve, for purposes of complying with applicable listing rules of the NYSE, the issuance of shares of Class A common stock pursuant to the Business Combination. See the section entitled "Proposal No. 6—The Merger Issuance Proposal."

7.
A proposal to approve, for purposes of complying with applicable listing rules of the NYSE, the issuance of shares of Class A common stock pursuant to the Subscription Agreements. See the section entitled "Proposal No. 7—The Subscription Agreements Proposal."

8.
A proposal to approve and adopt the Incentive Plan. See the section entitled "Proposal No. 8—The Incentive Plan Proposal."

9.
A proposal to approve the adjournment of the Special Meeting to a later date or dates, if necessary, to permit further solicitation and vote of proxies in the event that there are insufficient votes for, or otherwise in connection with, the approval of the Business Combination Proposal, the Charter Amendment Proposal, the Charter Approval Proposal, the Merger Issuance Proposal, the Subscription Agreements Proposal or the Incentive Plan Proposal, or we determine that one or more of the closing conditions to Merger Agreement is not satisfied or waived. See the section entitled "Proposal No. 9—The Adjournment Proposal."

vi


Table of Contents

vi


Table of Contents

Q:    I AM A TRINE WARRANT HOLDER. WHY AM I RECEIVING THIS PROXY STATEMENT/CONSENT SOLICITATION STATEMENT/PROSPECTUS?

A:
Upon consummation of the Business Combination, the Trine warrants shall, by their terms, entitle the holders to purchase Class A common stock at a purchase price of $11.50 per share. This proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus includes important information about Desktop Metal and the business of Desktop Metal and its subsidiaries following consummation of the Business Combination. As holders of Trine warrants will be entitled to purchase Class A common stock of Trine upon consummation of the Business Combination, Trine urges you to read the information contained in this proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus carefully.

Q:    WHY IS TRINE PROPOSING THE BUSINESS COMBINATION?

A:
Trine was organized to effect a merger, capital stock exchange, asset acquisition, stock purchase, reorganization or other similar business combination with one or more businesses or entities.

Q:    DID THE TRINE BOARD OBTAIN A THIRD-PARTY VALUATION OR FAIRNESS OPINION IN DETERMINING WHETHER OR NOT TO PROCEED WITH THE BUSINESS COMBINATION?

A:
The Trine Board did not obtain a third-party valuation or fairness opinion in connection with their determination to approve the Business Combination with Desktop Metal. The directors and officers of Trine and Trine's advisors have substantial experience in evaluating the operating and financial merits of companies from a wide range of industries and concluded that their experience

vii


Table of Contents

No Solicitation (page 214)212)

        Under the terms of the Merger Agreement, Desktop Metal has agreed not to (i) initiate, solicit or knowingly encourage or knowingly facilitate any inquiries or requests for information with respect to, or the making of, any inquiry regarding, or any proposal or offer that constitutes, or could reasonably be expected to result in or lead to, any acquisition proposal, (ii) engage in, continue or otherwise participate in any negotiations or discussions concerning, or provide access to its properties, books and records or any confidential information or data to, any person or entity relating to any proposal, offer, inquiry or request for information that constitutes, or could reasonably be expected to result in or lead to, any acquisition proposal, (iii) approve, endorse or recommend, or propose publicly to approve, endorse or recommend, any acquisition proposal, (iv) execute or enter into any letter of intent, memorandum of understanding, agreement in principle, confidentiality agreement (other than an acceptable confidentiality agreement executed in accordance with the no solicitation provisions), Merger Agreement, acquisition agreement, exchange agreement, joint venture agreement, partnership agreement, option agreement or other similar agreement for or relating to any acquisition proposal or (v) resolve or agree to do any of the foregoing.

        Desktop Metal has also agreed that immediately following the execution of the Merger Agreement it shall use its reasonable best efforts to cause its representatives acting on its behalf to cease any solicitations, discussions or negotiations with any person or entity conducted prior to the Merger Agreement in connection with an acquisition proposal or any inquiry or request for information that could reasonably be expected to lead to, or result in, an acquisition proposal. Desktop Metal has also agreed that within three business days of the execution of the Merger Agreement, Desktop Metal shall request each person and entity that has prior to the date of the Merger Agreement executed a confidentiality agreement in connection with its consideration of acquiring Desktop Metal (and with whom Desktop Metal has had contact in 12 months prior to the date of the Merger Agreement regarding the acquisition of Desktop Metal) to return or destroy all confidential information furnished to such person or entity prior to the date of the Merger Agreement and terminate access to any physical or electronic data room maintained by or on behalf of Desktop Metal.

        Desktop Metal has agreed to promptly (and in any event within one business day) notify, in writing, Trine of the receipt of any inquiry, proposal, offer or request for information received after the date of the Merger Agreement that constitutes, or could reasonably be expected to result in or lead to, any acquisition. Desktop Metal shall promptly (and in any event within one business day) keep Trine reasonably informed of any material developments with respect to any such inquiry, proposal, offer or request for information or acquisition.

        Notwithstanding the restrictions set forth above, the Merger Agreement provides that, under specified circumstances, in response to a bona fide written acquisition proposal that did not result from a material breach of the no solicitation provisions that the Desktop Metal board of directors determines in good faith (after consultation with its outside financial advisors and outside legal counsel) to be a superior proposal and failure to take such action would reasonably be expected to be inconsistent with its fiduciary duties under applicable law, Desktop Metal may make a company change in recommendation or terminate the Merger Agreement to enter a definitive agreement with respect to such superior proposal, subject to complying with Trine's rights under the Merger Agreement, including the payment of a termination payment by Desktop Metal to Trine.

        Additionally, notwithstanding the restrictions set forth above, if, at any time prior to obtaining the company approval, the Desktop Metal board determines in good faith, in response to an intervening event, after consultation with its outside legal counsel, that the failure to make a company change in


Table of Contents

recommendation would be inconsistent with its fiduciary duties under applicable law, the Desktop Metal board of directors may, prior to obtaining the company approval, make a company change in


Table of Contents

recommendation, subject to complying with Trine's rights under the Merger Agreement, including the payment of a termination payment by Desktop Metal to Trine.

        Trine has agreed not to take, nor permit any of its affiliates or representatives to take, whether directly or indirectly, any action to solicit, initiate, continue or engage in discussions or negotiations with, enter into any agreement, letter of intent, memorandum of understanding or agreement in principle with or encourage, respond, provide information to or commence due diligence with respect to, any person or entity (other than Desktop Metal, its stockholders and/or any of their affiliates or representatives), concerning, relating to or which is intended or is reasonably likely to give rise to or result in, any offer, inquiry, proposal or indication of interest, written or oral relating to any business combination other than (i) with Desktop Metal, its stockholders and their respective affiliates and representatives or (ii) to the extent that the Trine board of directors determines in good faith, in response to a Desktop Metal intervening event, that the failure to take any such action would be inconsistent with its fiduciary duties under applicable law. Trine has agreed to, and cause its affiliates and representatives to, immediately cease any and all existing discussions or negotiations with any person or entity conducted prior to the date of the Merger Agreement with respect to, or which is reasonably likely to give rise to or result in, a proposal for a business combination.

Termination; Company Termination Fee (page 225)223)

        The Merger Agreement may be terminated at any time prior to the effective time of the Business Combination, whether before or after adoption of the Merger Agreement by Desktop Metal's stockholders or approval of the proposals required to effect the Business Combination by Trine's stockholders.

Mutual termination rights.

        The Merger Agreement may be terminated and the transactions contemplated thereby abandoned:

    by written consent of Desktop Metal and Trine; or

    by written notice from either Desktop Metal or Trine to the other if the approval of Trine stockholders to the Business Combination Proposal, the Charter Amendment Proposal, the Charter Approval Proposal, the Merger Issuance Proposal, the Subscription Agreements Proposal and the Incentive Plan Proposal are not obtained at the Special Meeting (subject to any adjournment or recess of the Special Meeting).

Desktop Metal termination rights.

        The Merger Agreement may be terminated and the transactions contemplated thereby abandoned:

    prior to the closing, by written notice to Trine from Desktop Metal if (i) there is any breach of any representation, warranty, covenant or agreement on the part of Trine set forth in the Merger Agreement, such that the conditions described in the first two bullet points under the heading "—Conditions to the Business Combination; Conditions to Obligations of Desktop Metal" would not be satisfied at the closing (a "terminating Trine breach"), except that, if any such terminating Trine breach is curable by Trine through the exercise of its commercially reasonable efforts, then, for a period of 30 days after receipt by Trine of notice from Desktop Metal of such breach, but only as long as Trine continues to exercise such commercially reasonable efforts to cure such terminating Trine breach (the "Trine cure period"), such termination shall not be effective, and such termination shall become effective only if the terminating Trine breach is not cured within the Trine cure period, (ii) the closing has not occurred on or before the termination date,

Table of Contents


Table of Contents

Trine termination rights.

        The Merger Agreement may be terminated and the transactions contemplated thereby abandoned:


Table of Contents

        Desktop Metal must pay Trine a termination fee of $54,900,000 if the Merger Agreement is terminated under either of the following circumstances:


Table of Contents

      proposal, subject to the terms and conditions described under the heading "—No Solicitation" above;

    Trine terminates the Merger Agreement as a result of the Desktop Metal board of directors (A) prior to obtaining the Desktop Metal stockholder approval, making a Desktop Metal change in recommendation or (B) failing to include the Desktop Metal board recommendation in the consent solicitation statement distributed to stockholders; or

    Either Trine or Desktop Metal terminates the Merger Agreement due to the closing not occurring on or before the termination date (as extended under the circumstances described above) or Trine terminates the Merger Agreement for a terminating Desktop Metal breach or Desktop's failure to obtain the Desktop Metal stockholder approval within three business days following the date that this proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus is disseminated by Desktop Metal to the Desktop Metal stockholders pursuant to the terms of the Merger Agreement and (i) before the date of such termination, a bona fide written acquisition proposal is publicly announced, disclosed or made and is not publicly withdrawn as of the date of such termination and (ii) within twelve months after the date of termination, Desktop Metal consummates such acquisition proposal or enters into a definitive agreement for such acquisition proposal (which acquisition proposal is ultimately consummated).

        See "The Merger Agreement—Termination" beginning on page 225.223.

Sponsor Agreement (page 228)226)

        Pursuant to the terms of a Sponsor Agreement entered into among Desktop Metal, Trine, the Sponsor and Trine's directors and officers, the Sponsor and Trine's directors and officers have agreed to vote any Founder Shares held by them and any Public Shares purchased during or after the Trine IPO in favor of each of the proposals presented at the Special Meeting. The Sponsor, Trine's directors and officers and their permitted transferees own at least 20% of its outstanding common stock entitled to vote thereon. The quorum and voting thresholds at the Special Meeting and the Sponsor Agreement may make it more likely that Trine will consummate the Business Combination. In addition, pursuant to the terms of the Sponsor Agreement, the Sponsor and Trine's directors and officers have agreed to waive their redemption rights with respect to any Founder Shares and any Public Shares held by them in connection with the completion of a business combination. See "Other Agreements—Sponsor Agreement."

Other Agreements (page 228)226)

Support Agreements

        In connection with the execution of the Merger Agreement, Trine and Merger Sub entered into a support agreement (each, a "Support Agreement" and collectively, the "Support Agreements") with certain stockholders of Desktop Metal (collectively, the "Supporting Desktop Metal Stockholders" and each, a "Supporting Desktop Metal Stockholder"), which collectively hold Desktop Metal preferred stock and Desktop Metal common stock representing the majority of the voting power of Desktop Metal preferred stock and Desktop Metal common stock. Each Support Agreement provides, among other things, that each Supporting Desktop Metal Stockholder will execute and deliver a written consent with respect to the outstanding shares of Desktop Metal common stock and Desktop Metal


Table of Contents

preferred stock held by such Supporting Desktop Metal Stockholder adopting the Merger Agreement and approving the Business Combination. See "Other Agreements—Support Agreements."


Table of Contents

Subscription Agreements

        In connection with the execution of the Merger Agreement, Trine entered into subscription agreements (together with any subscription agreements to be entered into by Trine following the execution of the Merger Agreement, collectively, the "Subscription Agreements") with certain parties subscribing for shares of Class A common stock (together with any parties entering into Subscription Agreements followingwith the execution of the Merger Agreement, the "Subscribers")Subscribers pursuant to which the Subscribers have agreed to purchase, and Trine has agreed to sell the Subscribers, an aggregate of 27,497,500 shares of Class A common stock, for a purchase price of $10.00 per share and at an aggregate purchase price of $274,975,000. The obligations to consummate the transactions contemplated by the Subscription Agreements are conditioned upon, among other things, customary closing conditions and the consummation of the transactions contemplated by the Merger Agreement. See "Other Agreements—Subscription Agreements".

Stockholders Agreement

        In connection with the execution of the Merger Agreement, Trine entered into a Stockholders Agreement (the "Stockholders Agreement") with the Sponsor. Pursuant to the Stockholders Agreement, the Sponsor and its successors and any permitted transferees (as defined in the Stockholders Agreement) (collectively, the "Trine Stockholders") have (i) the right to nominate Leo Hindery, Jr. (the "Sponsor Director") to the board of the Post-Combination Company for so long as the Trine Stockholders beneficially own, in the aggregate, a number of shares of Class A common stock of the Post-Combination Company equal to or greater than 25% of the aggregate number of shares of Class A common stock of the Post-Combination Company beneficially owned by the Trine Stockholders immediately following the closing of the Business Combination (the "Initial Sponsor Shares") and (ii) certain information rights for so long as the Trine Stockholders beneficially own, in the aggregate, a number of shares of common stock of the Post-Combination Company equal to or greater than 25% of the Initial Sponsor Shares. See "Other Agreements—Stockholders Agreement".

Confidentiality and Lockup Agreement

        In connection with the execution of the Merger Agreement, certain Desktop Metal stockholders entered into Confidentiality and Lockup Agreement (the "Confidentiality and Lockup Agreement"). Pursuant to the Confidentiality and Lockup Agreement, such stockholders have agreed that they will not, during the period beginning at the effective time of the Business Combination and continuing to and including the date that is one hundred eighty (180) days after the date of closing of the Business Combination, directly or indirectly, offer, sell, contract to sell, pledge, grant any option to purchase, make any short sale or otherwise dispose of any shares of common stock, or any options or warrants to purchase any shares of common stock, or any securities convertible into, exchangeable for or that represent the right to receive shares of common stock, or any interest in any of the foregoing (in each case, subject to certain exceptions set forth in the Confidentiality and Lockup Agreement). The Confidentiality and Lockup Agreement will become effective upon the consummation of the Business Combination. See "Other Agreements—Confidentiality and Lockup Agreement".

Registration Rights Agreement

        In connection with the execution of the Merger Agreement, Trine and certain stockholders of Desktop Metal and Trine entered into an amended and restated registration rights agreement (the "Registration Rights Agreement"), which will become effective upon the consummation of the Business Combination. Pursuant to the Registration Rights Agreement, Trine agreed to file a shelf registration


Table of Contents

statement with respect to the registrable securities under the Registration Rights Agreement within 45 days of the closing of the Business Combination. Up to twice in any 12-month period, certain legacy Desktop Metal stockholders and legacy Trine stockholders may request to sell all or any portion of their registrable securities in an underwritten offering so long as the total offering price is reasonably expected to exceed $75,000,000. Trine also agreed to provide customary "piggyback" registration rights. The Registration Rights Agreement also provides that Trine will pay certain expenses relating to such


Table of Contents

registrations and indemnify the stockholders against certain liabilities. See "Other Agreements—Registration Rights Agreement".

Listing (page 203)201)

        Trine's Class A common stock is listed on the NYSE under the symbol "TRNE". Following the Business Combination, the Class A common stock of the Post-Combination Company (including the Class A common stock issuable in the Business Combination) will be listed on the NYSE under the symbol "DM".

Comparison of Stockholders' Rights (page 238)236)

        Following the Business Combination, the rights of Desktop Metal stockholders who become stockholders of the Post-Combination Company in the Business Combination will no longer be governed by Desktop Metal's charter and Desktop Metal's bylaws ("Desktop Metal's bylaws") and instead will be governed by the Proposed Charter and the Post-Combination Company's bylaws (the "Post-Combination Company's bylaws"). See "Comparison of Stockholders' Rights" beginning on page 238.236.

Risk Factors (page 25)26)

        You should consider all the information contained in this proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus in deciding how to vote for the proposals presented in this proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus. In particular, you should consider the factors described under "Risk Factors" beginning on page 25.26.

Information about Trine (page 104)

        Trine Acquisition Corp. is a blank check company formed for the purpose of effecting a merger, capital stock exchange, asset acquisition, stock purchase, reorganization or other similar business combination with one or more businesses. Trine's Class A common stock, units and public warrants are currently listed on the NYSE under the symbols "TRNE", "TRNE.U" and "TRNE.WS", respectively. The mailing address of Trine's principal executive office is 405 Lexington Avenue, 48th Floor, New York, NY 10174 and the telephone number of Trine's principal executive office is (212) 503-2855.

Information about Desktop Metal (page 124)122)

        Desktop Metal, Inc. is a privately-held Delaware corporation that is pioneering a new generation of additive manufacturing technologies focused on the production of end-use parts. It offers a portfolio of integrated additive manufacturing solutions for engineers, designers, and manufacturers comprised of hardware, software, materials and services. The mailing address of Desktop Metal's principal executive office is 63 Third Avenue, Burlington, MA 01803 and the telephone number of Desktop Metal's principal executive officer is (978) 224-1244.

Ownership of the Post-Combination Company

        As of the date of this proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus, there are 37,518,750 shares of Trine common stock issued and outstanding, including 7,503,750 shares of Trine


Table of Contents

Class B common stock, each of which will be converted into one share of Class A common stock. As of the date of this proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus, there are an aggregate of 23,510,500 warrants outstanding. Each whole warrant entitles the holder thereof to purchase one share of Class A common stock. Therefore, as of the date of this proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus (without giving effect to the Business Combination and assuming no redemptions), assuming that (i) each share of Class B common stock is converted into one share of Class A common stock and (ii) each outstanding warrant is exercised and one Class A common stock is issued as a result of such exercise, the Trine fully-diluted stock capital would be 61,029,250 shares of common stock.

        It is anticipated that, upon the completion of the Business Combination, the ownership of the Post-Combination Company will be as follows:

    current Desktop Metal stockholders will own                shares of common stock, representing approximately        % of the total shares outstanding;

    the Subscribers will own 27,497,500 shares of common stock, representing approximately        % of the total shares outstanding;

    the public stockholders will own 30,015,000 shares of common stock, representing approximately        % of the total shares outstanding; and

    the Initial Stockholders will own 7,503,750 shares of common stock, representing approximately        % of the total shares outstanding.

        The numbers of shares and percentage interests set forth above are based on a number of assumptions, including that none of the public stockholders exercise their redemption rights and that Trine and Desktop Metal do not issue any additional equity securities prior to the Business Combination. If the actual facts differ from our assumptions, the numbers of shares and percentage interests set forth above will be different. In addition, the numbers of shares and percentage interests set forth above do not take into account (i) potential future exercises of Trine's outstanding warrants or (ii) shares issuable upon the exercise of outstanding options to purchase shares of Desktop Metal's common stock.

        Please see the section entitled "Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Combined Financial Information" for further information.


Table of Contents



Summary Historical Financial Data For Trine

        The following table shows summary historical financial data of Trine for the periods and as of the dates indicated.

        The summary historical financial data of Trine as of and for the years ended December 31, 2019 and 2018 was derived from the audited historical consolidated financial statements of Trine included elsewhere in this proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus. The summary historical financial data of Trine as of June 30, 2020 and for the six months ended June 30, 2020 and 2019 was derived from the unaudited interim consolidated financial statements of Trine included elsewhere in this proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus.

        The following table should be read in conjunction with the sections entitled "Information About Trine," "Selected Historical Financial Information of Trine" and "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations of Trine" and the historical financial statements and the notes and schedules related thereto, included elsewhere in this proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus. The historical results presented below are not necessarily indicative of financial results to be achieved by the business following the Business Combination.

 
 For the Six Months
Ended June 30,
 For the
year ended
December 31,
 For the
Period From
September 26,
2018 (inception)
through
December 31,
 
(in thousands, except share and per share data)
 2020 2019 2019 2018 
 
 (Unaudited)
  
  
 

Statement of Operations Data:

             

Loss from operations

 $(1,008)$(671)$(1,857)$(44)

Other income, net

 $1,084 $2,205 $5,312 $ 

Provision for income taxes

 $(16)$(322)$(726)$ 

Net income (loss)

 $59 $1,212 $2,729 $(44)

Weighted average shares outstanding, basic and diluted

  
9,033,344
  
7,804,138
  
8,348,930
  
6,525,000
 

Basic and diluted net loss per common share

 $(0.09)$(0.06)$(0.18)$(0.01)

Statement of Cash Flows Data:

  
 
  
 
  
 
  
 
 

Net cash used in operating activities

 $(978)$(1,799)$(2,698)$(47)

Net cash provided by (used) in investing activities

 $230 $(299,217)$(299,217)$ 

Net cash provided by financing activities

 $670 $301,936 $301,934 $166 

 

 
  
 As of December 31, 
 
 As of
June 30, 2020
 
(in thousands)
 2019 2018 
 
 (Unaudited)
  
  
 

Balance Sheet Data:

          

Total assets

 $305,803 $305,125 $326 

Total liabilities

 $11,463 $10,844 $344 

Total common stock subject to possible redemption

 $289,340 $289,281 $ 

Total stockholders' equity

 $5,000 $5,000 $(19)

Table of Contents


Summary Historical Financial Data For Desktop Metal

        The summary historical consolidated financial information for Desktop Metal presented below for the years ended December 31, 2019 and 2018, and the summary consolidated balance sheet as of December 31, 2019 and 2018 have been derived from Desktop Metal's audited consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus.

        The summary historical consolidated financial information presented below as of June 30, 2020 and for the six-month period ended June 30, 2020 and 2019 have been derived from Desktop Metal's unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus. The unaudited financial data presented have been prepared on a basis consistent with Desktop Metal's audited consolidated financial statements. In the opinion of Desktop Metal's management, such unaudited financial data reflects all adjustments, consisting only of normal and recurring adjustments necessary for a fair presentation of the results for those periods. The results of operations for the interim periods are not necessarily indicative of the results to be expected of the full year or any future period.

        The summary information in the following tables should be read in conjunction with "Selected Historical Consolidated Financial Information," "Desktop Metal's Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" and Desktop Metal's consolidated financial statements and related notes thereto included elsewhere in this proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus.

 
 Year Ended December 31, Six Months Ended
June 30,
 
(in thousands)
 2019 2018 2020 2019 

Statement of Operations Data:

             

Total revenue

 $26,439 $1,034 $5,574 $12,081 

Total costs and expenses

  135,484  124,647  51,890  66,274 

Loss from operations

  (109,045) (123,613) (46,316) (54,193)

Other expenses:

             

Interest expense

  (503) (261) (155) (261)

Interest income

  5,952  2,535  901  2,581 

Loss from operations before income taxes

  (103,596) (121,339) (45,570) (51,873)

Income tax expense (benefit)

         

Net loss

 $(103,596)$(121,339)$(45,570)$(51,873)

Net loss per share—basic and diluted

 $(4.43)$(7.36)$(1.59)$(2.44)

 

 
 Year Ended
December 31,
 As of
June 30, 2020
 
(in thousands)
 2019 2018 Actual 

Balance Sheet Data:

          

Cash and cash equivalents

 $66,161 $29,043 $74,647 

Working capital, net

  145,089  82,638  94,496 

Adjusted working capital (excluding cash)

  78,928  53,595  19,849 

Total assets

  192,711  128,938  146,175 

Total debt

  9,972  9,953  9,981 

Convertible preferred stock

  436,533  276,889  436,533 

Total stockholders' deficit

  (277,462) (184,569) (320,545)

Table of Contents

 

 
 Year Ended
December 31,
 Six Months Ended
June 30,
 
(in thousands)
 2019 2018 2020 2019 

Statement of Cash Flow Data:

             

Net cash used in operating activities

 $(97,202)$(111,002)$(40,304)$(52,087)

Net cash (used in) provided by investing activities

  (26,032) 39,007  48,655  (84,248)

Net cash provided by financing activities

  160,352  45,426  135  160,157 

Table of Contents


Summary Unaudited Pro Forma
Condensed Combined Financial Information

        The following summary unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial data (the "summary pro forma data") gives effect to the Transactions (as defined in the section titled "Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Combined Financial Information" included in this proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus). Under both the no redemption and the maximum redemption scenario, the Business Combination will be accounted for as a reverse recapitalization, with no goodwill or other intangible assets recorded, in accordance with GAAP. Under this method of accounting, Trine will be treated as the "acquired" company for financial reporting purposes. Accordingly, for accounting purposes, the Business Combination will be treated as the equivalent of Desktop Metal issuing stock for the net assets of Trine, accompanied by a recapitalization. The net assets of Trine will be stated at historical cost, with no goodwill or other intangible assets recorded. The summary unaudited pro forma condensed combined balance sheet data as of June 30, 2020 gives effect to the Transactions as if they had occurred on June 30, 2020. The summary unaudited pro forma condensed combined statements of operations data for the year ended December 31, 2019 and for the six months ended June 30, 2020 give effect to the Transactions as if they had occurred on January 1, 2019.

        The summary pro forma data have been derived from, and should be read in conjunction with, the more detailed unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial information (the "pro forma financial statements") of Trine appearing elsewhere in this proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus and the accompanying notes to the pro forma financial statements. The pro forma financial statements are based upon, and should be read in conjunction with, the historical consolidated financial statements and related notes of Trine and Desktop Metal for the applicable periods included in this proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus.

        The summary pro forma data have been presented for informational purposes only and are not necessarily indicative of what Desktop Metal's and Trine's financial position or results of operations actually would have been had the Transactions been completed as of the dates indicated. In addition, the summary pro forma data do not purport to project the future financial position or operating results of Trine.

        The unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial information has been prepared using the assumptions below:

    Assuming No Redemptions:  This presentation assumes that no Trine stockholders exercise redemption rights with respect to their Public Shares.

    Assuming Maximum Redemptions:  This presentation assumes that all Trine stockholders holding approximately 30.0 million Public Shares will exercise their redemption rights for the $305.4 million of funds in Trine's trust account. The Merger Agreement includes as a condition to closing the Business Combination that, at the closing of the Business Combination, Trine will have a minimum of $200.0 million of Available Cash less total estimated transaction costs.

Table of Contents

      Furthermore, Trine will only proceed with the Business Combination if it will have net tangible assets of at least $5,000,001 upon consummation of the Business Combination.


 Combined Pro Forma  Combined Pro Forma 
(in thousands, except share and per share data)
 Assuming No
Redemptions
 Assuming
Maximum
Redemptions
  Assuming No
Redemptions
 Assuming
Maximum
Redemptions
 

Summary Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Combined Statement of Operations Data

          

Six months ended June 30, 2020

          

Revenue

 $5,574 $5,574  $5,574 $5,574 

Net loss

 $(46,368)$(46,368) $(46,368)$(46,368)

Basic and diluted net loss per common share

 $(0.21)$(0.24) $(0.21)$(0.24)

Weighted average shares outstanding, basic and diluted

 224,374,000 194,359,000  224,374,000 194,359,000 

Summary Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Combined Statement of Operations Data

 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 

Year Ended December 31, 2019

          

Revenue

 $26,439 $26,439  $26,439 $26,439 

Net loss

 $(105,120)$(105,120) $(105,120)$(105,120)

Basic and diluted net loss per common share

 $(0.47)$(0.54) $(0.47)$(0.54)

Weighted average shares outstanding, basic and diluted

 224,374,000 194,359,000  224,374,000 194,359,000 

Summary Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Combined Balance Sheet Data

 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 

As of June 30, 2020

          

Total assets

 $666,012 $360,630  $667,195 $361,813 

Total liabilities

 $30,299 $30,299  $30,299 $30,299 

Total equity

 $635,713 $330,331  $636,896 $331,514 

Table of Contents



Unaudited Historical Comparative and Pro Forma Combined Per Share Data of Trine and Desktop Metal

        The following table sets forth summary historical comparative share and unit information for Trine and Desktop Metal and unaudited pro forma condensed combined per share information of Trine after giving effect to the Transactions (as defined in the section titled "Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Combined Financial Information"), assuming two redemption scenarios as follows:

    Assuming No Redemptions:  This presentation assumes that no Trine stockholders exercise redemption rights with respect to their Public Shares.

    Assuming Maximum Redemptions:  This presentation assumes that all Trine stockholders holding approximately 30.0 million Public Shares will exercise their redemption rights for the $305.4 million of funds in Trine's trust account. The Merger Agreement includes as a condition to closing the Business Combination that, at the closing of the Business Combination, Trine will have a minimum of $200.0 million in Available Cash less total estimated transaction costs. Furthermore, Trine will only proceed with the Business Combination if it will have net tangible assets of at least $5,000,001 upon consummation of the Business Combination.

        The unaudited pro forma book value information reflects the Transactions as if they had occurred on June 30, 2020. The weighted average shares outstanding and net earnings per share information reflect the Transactions as if they had occurred on January 1, 2019.

        This information is only a summary and should be read together with the summary historical financial information included elsewhere in this proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus, and the historical financial statements of Trine and Desktop Metal and related notes that are included elsewhere in this proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus. The unaudited pro forma combined per share information of Trine and Desktop Metal is derived from, and should be read in conjunction with, the unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial statements and related notes included elsewhere in this proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus.

        The unaudited pro forma combined earnings per share information below does not purport to represent the earnings per share which would have occurred had the companies been combined during the periods presented, nor earnings per share for any future date or period. The unaudited pro forma combined book value per share information below does not purport to represent what the value of


Table of Contents

Trine and Desktop Metal would have been had the companies been combined during the periods presented.


  
  
 Combined Pro Forma   
  
 Combined Pro Forma Desktop Metal Equivalent Pro Forma Per Share data(3) 

 Trine Desktop
Metal
 Assuming No
Redemptions
 Assuming
Maximum
Redemptions
  Trine Desktop
Metal
 Assuming No
Redemptions
 Assuming
Maximum
Redemptions
 Assuming No
Redemptions
 Assuming
Maximum
Redemptions
 

As of and For the Six Months Ended June 30, 2020(4)

                      

Book value per share(1)

 $0.55 $(11.17)$2.83 $1.70 

Book value per share (1)

 $0.55 $(11.17)$2.84 $1.71 $3.47 $2.09 

Weighted average shares outstanding—basic and diluted

 9,033,344 28,687,103 224,374,000 194,359,000  9,033,344 28,687,103 224,374,000 194,359,000 183,000,000 183,000,000 

Net loss per share—basic and diluted

 $(0.09)$(1.59)$(0.21)$(0.24) $(0.09)$(1.59)$(0.21)$(0.24)$(0.26)$(0.29)

As of and for the Year Ended December 31, 2019(4)

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Book value per share(1)

 $0.60 $(11.87) N/A(2) N/A(2) $0.60 $(11.87) N/A (2) N/A (2) N/A (2) N/A (2)

Weighted average shares outstanding—basic and diluted

 8,348,930 23,379,464 224,374,000 194,359,000  8,348,930 23,379,464 224,374,000 194,359,000 183,000,000 183,000,000 

Net loss per share—basic and diluted

 $(0.18)$(4.43)$(0.47)$(0.54) $(0.18)$(4.43)$(0.47)$(0.54)$(0.57)$(0.66)

(1)
Book value per share = (Total equity excluding convertible preferred shares)/shares outstanding. The Trine historical weighted average shares outstanding excludes the shares subject to redemption for Trine at June 30, 2020 and December 31, 2019.

(2)
There is no Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Combined Balance Sheet required for December 31, 2019. Because of this, there is no Destptop Metal equivalent pro forma book value per share for December 31, 2019.

(3)
The equivalent pro forma basic and diluted per share data for Desktop Metal is calculated based on an expected exchange ratio of 1.22122 under both the no redemption and maximum redemption scenarios, inherent in the Business Combination.

(4)
No cash dividends were declared under the periods presented.

Table of Contents


MARKET PRICE AND DIVIDEND INFORMATION

Trine

        Trine's Class A common stock, units and public warrants and are traded on the NYSE under the symbols TRNE, TRNE.U and TRNE.WS, respectively.

        The closing price of the Class A common stock, units and public warrants on August 25, 2020, the last trading day before announcement of the execution of the Merger Agreement, was $10.14, $11.22 and $1.07, respectively. As of ,October 30, 2020, the Trine Record Date, the most recent closing price for each Class A common stock, unit and public warrant was $            , $$10.20, $11.17 and $            ,$1.70, respectively.

        Holders of the Class A common stock, units and public warrants should obtain current market quotations for their securities. The market price of Trine's securities could vary at any time before the Business Combination.

Holders

        As of ,October 30, 2020, there were            holders of record of Trine's units,             holders of record of Class A common stock,            holders of record of Class B common stock and            holders of record of public warrants. The number of holders of record does not include a substantially greater number of "street name" holders or beneficial holders whose units, Public Shares and public warrants are held of record by banks, brokers and other financial institutions.

Dividend Policy

        Trine has not paid any cash dividends on its common stock to date and does not intend to pay cash dividends prior to the completion of the Business Combination. The payment of cash dividends in the future will be dependent upon the Post-Combination Company's revenues and earnings, if any, capital requirements and general financial condition subsequent to completion of the Business Combination. The payment of any cash dividends subsequent to the Business Combination will be within the discretion of the Post-Combination Company's board of directors at such time. The Post-Combination Company's ability to declare dividends may also be limited by restrictive covenants pursuant to any debt financing agreements.

Desktop Metal

        Historical market price information for Desktop Metal's capital stock is not provided because there is no public market for Desktop Metal's capital stock. See "Desktop Metal's Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations".


Table of Contents


FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS; MARKET, RANKING AND
OTHER INDUSTRY DATA

        This proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus includes forward-looking statements regarding, among other things, the plans, strategies and prospects, both business and financial of Trine and Desktop Metal. These statements are based on the beliefs and assumptions of the management of Trine and Desktop Metal. Although Trine and Desktop Metal believe that their respective plans, intentions and expectations reflected in or suggested by these forward-looking statements are reasonable, neither Trine nor Desktop Metal can assure you that either will achieve or realize these plans, intentions or expectations. Forward-looking statements are inherently subject to risks, uncertainties and assumptions. Generally, statements that are not historical facts, including statements concerning possible or assumed future actions, business strategies, events or results of operations, are forward-looking statements. These statements may be preceded by, followed by or include the words "believes", "estimates", "expects", "projects", "forecasts", "may", "will", "should", "seeks", "plans", "scheduled", "anticipates" or "intends" or similar expressions. Forward-looking statements contained in this proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus include, but are not limited to, statements about the ability of Trine and Desktop Metal prior to the Business Combination, and the Post-Combination Company following the Business Combination, to:

    meet the closing conditions to the Business Combination, including approval by stockholders of Trine and Desktop Metal on the expected terms and schedule;

    realize the benefits expected from the proposed Business Combination;

    continue to develop new products and innovations to meet constantly evolving customer demands;

    design, produce and launch additive manufacturing systems on the planned timelines;

    develop a recurring stream of revenue through the sale of consumables and service contracts related to the additive manufacturing systems;

    acquire or make investments in other businesses, patents, technologies, products or services to grow the business;

    attract, train and retain an effective sales force and other key personnel;

    enhance future operating and financial results;

    comply with laws and regulations applicable to its business;

    successfully defend litigation;

    upgrade and maintain information technology systems;

    acquire and protect intellectual property;

    meet future liquidity requirements and comply with restrictive covenants related to long-term indebtedness; and

    successfully deploy the proceeds from the Business Combination.

        Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of performance. You should not put undue reliance on these statements which speak only as of the date hereof. You should understand that the following important factors, in addition to those discussed under the heading "Risk Factors" and elsewhere in this proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus, could affect the future results of Trine and Desktop Metal prior to the Business Combination, and the Post-Combination Company following the Business Combination, and could cause those results or other outcomes to differ materially from those


Table of Contents

expressed or implied in the forward-looking statements in this proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus:

    any delay in closing of the Business Combination;

    risks related to disruption of management's time from ongoing business operations due to the proposed transactions;

    the impact of changes in consumer spending patterns, consumer preferences, local, regional and national economic conditions, crime, weather, demographic trends and employee availability;

    the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the financial condition and results of operations of Trine and Desktop Metal;

    the fluctuation of operating results from period to period due to a number of factors, including the pace of customer adoption of our new products and services and any changes in our product mix that shift too far into lower gross margin products;

    increasing competition in the additive manufacturing industry;

    any delays in the design, production or launch of our additive manufacturing systems;

    the failure to meet customers' expectations as to price or pricing structure;

    any defects in new products or enhancements to existing products; and

    disruption to the business due to our dependency on our third-party resellers, our contract manufacturers and our suppliers.

        These and other factors that could cause actual results to differ from those implied by the forward-looking statements in this proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus are more fully described under the heading "Risk Factors" and elsewhere in this proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus. The risks described under the heading "Risk Factors" are not exhaustive. Other sections of this proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus describe additional factors that could adversely affect the business, financial condition or results of operations of Trine and Desktop Metal prior to the Business Combination, and the Post-Combination Company following the Business Combination. New risk factors emerge from time to time and it is not possible to predict all such risk factors, nor can Trine or Desktop Metal assess the impact of all such risk factors on the business of Trine and Desktop Metal prior to the Business Combination, and the Post-Combination Company following the Business Combination, or the extent to which any factor or combination of factors may cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statements. All forward-looking statements attributable to Trine or Desktop Metal or persons acting on their behalf are expressly qualified in their entirety by the foregoing cautionary statements. Trine and Desktop Metal prior to the Business Combination, and the Post-Combination Company following the Business Combination, undertake no obligations to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.

        In addition, statements of belief and similar statements reflect the beliefs and opinions of Trine or Desktop Metal, as applicable, on the relevant subject. These statements are based upon information available to Trine or Desktop Metal, as applicable, as of the date of this proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus, and while such party believes such information forms a reasonable basis for such statements, such information may be limited or incomplete, and statements should not be read to indicate that Trine or Desktop Metal, as applicable, has conducted an exhaustive inquiry into, or review of, all potentially available relevant information. These statements are inherently uncertain and you are cautioned not to unduly rely upon these statements.


Table of Contents

        Market, ranking and industry data used throughout this proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus, including statements regarding market size and technology adoption rates, is based on the good faith estimates of Desktop Metal's management, which in turn are based upon Desktop Metal's management's review of internal surveys, independent industry surveys and publications, including reports by Wohlers Associates, Inc., Ernst & Young Global Limited, A.T. Kearney, Inc. and other third party research and publicly available information. These data involve a number of assumptions and limitations, and you are cautioned not to give undue weight to such estimates. While Desktop Metal is not aware of any misstatements regarding the industry data presented herein, its estimates involve risks and uncertainties and are subject to change based on various factors, including those discussed under the heading "Risk Factors" and "Desktop Metal's Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" in this proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus.


Table of Contents


RISK FACTORS

        In addition to the other information contained in this proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus, including the matters addressed under the heading "Forward-Looking Statements", you should carefully consider the following risk factors in deciding how to vote on the proposals presented in this proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus. In this section "we," "us" and "our" refer to Desktop Metal prior to the Business Combination and to the Post-Combination Company following the Business Combination.

Risks Relating to Desktop Metal's Business and Industry

We are an early-stage company with a history of losses. We have not been profitable historically and may not achieve or maintain profitability in the future.

        We experienced net losses in each year since inception, including net losses of $121.3 million for 2018 and $103.6 million for 2019. We believe we will continue to incur operating losses and negative cash flow in the near-term as we continue to invest significantly in our business, in particular across our research and development efforts and sales and marketing programs.

        These investments may not result in increased revenue or growth in our business. In addition, as a newly-public company, we will incur significant additional legal, accounting and other expenses that we did not incur as a private company. These increased expenditures make it harder for us to achieve and maintain future profitability. Revenue growth and growth in our customer base may not be sustainable, and we may not achieve sufficient revenue to achieve or maintain profitability. While we have generated revenue in the past, we have not yet begun volume commercial shipments of several of our additive manufacturing solutions that are expected to generate a substantial portion of our revenue going forward, and it is difficult for us to predict our future operating results. We may incur significant losses in the future for a number of reasons, including due to the other risks described in this proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus, and we may encounter unforeseen expenses, difficulties, complications and delays and other unknown events. As a result, our losses may be larger than anticipated, we may incur significant losses for the foreseeable future, and we may not achieve profitability when expected, or at all, and even if we do, we may not be able to maintain or increase profitability. Furthermore, if our future growth and operating performance fail to meet investor or analyst expectations, or if we have future negative cash flow or losses resulting from our investment in acquiring customers or expanding our operations, this could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Our limited operating history and rapid growth makes evaluating our current business and future prospects difficult and may increase the risk of your investment.

        We were founded in 2015, and much of our growth has occurred in recent periods. Our limited operating history may make it difficult for you to evaluate our current business and our future prospects, as we continue to grow our business. Our ability to forecast our future operating results is subject to a number of uncertainties, including our ability to plan for and model future growth. We have encountered, and will continue to encounter, risks and uncertainties frequently experienced by growing companies in rapidly evolving industries, as we continue to grow our business. If our assumptions regarding these uncertainties, which we use to plan our business, are incorrect or change in reaction to changes in our markets, or if we do not address these risks successfully, our operating and financial results could differ materially from our expectations, our business could suffer and the trading price of our stock may decline. We intend to derive a substantial portion of our revenues from the sales of a number of products which are in the late stages of development and scheduled to begin volume commercial shipments in late 2020 and 2021. There are no assurances that we will be able to


Table of Contents

secure future business with customers or that such products will begin commercial shipments on our planned timelines.


Table of Contents

        It is difficult to predict our future revenues and appropriately budget for our expenses, and we have limited insight into trends that may emerge and affect our business. If actual results differ from our estimates or we adjust our estimates in future periods, our operating results and financial position could be materially affected. The projected financial information appearing elsewhere in this proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus has been prepared by our management and reflects current estimates of future performance. The projected results depend on the successful implementation of our management's growth strategies and are based on assumptions and events over which we have only partial or no control. The assumptions underlying such projected information require the exercise of judgment and may not occur, and the projections are subject to uncertainty due to the effects of economic, business, competitive, regulatory, legislative, political and other changes.

Our operating results and financial condition may fluctuate from period to period.

        Our operating results and financial condition fluctuate from quarter-to-quarter and year-to-year and are likely to continue to vary due to a number of factors, many of which will not be within our control. Both our business and the additive manufacturing industry are changing and evolving rapidly, and our historical operating results may not be useful in predicting our future operating results. If our operating results do not meet the guidance that we provide to the marketplace or the expectations of securities analysts or investors, the market price of our common stock will likely decline. Fluctuations in our operating results and financial condition may be due to a number of factors, including:

    the degree of market acceptance of our products and services;

    our ability to compete with competitors and new entrants into our markets;

    the mix of products and services that we sell during any period;

    the timing of our sales and deliveries of our products to customers;

    the geographic distribution of our sales;

    changes in our pricing policies or those of our competitors, including our response to price competition;

    changes in the amount that we spend to develop and manufacture new products or technologies;

    changes in the amounts that we spend to promote our products and services;

    changes in the cost of satisfying our warranty obligations and servicing our installed customer base;

    expenses and/or liabilities resulting from litigation;

    delays between our expenditures to develop and market new or enhanced solutions and the generation of revenue from those solutions;

    unforeseen liabilities or difficulties in integrating our acquisitions or newly acquired businesses;

    disruptions to our information technology systems or our third-party contract manufacturers;

    general economic and industry conditions that effect customer demand;

    the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on our customers, suppliers, manufacturers and operations; and

    changes in accounting rules and tax laws.

Table of Contents

        In addition, our revenues and operating results may fluctuate from quarter-to-quarter and year-to-year due to our sales cycle and seasonality among our customers. Generally, our additive manufacturing solutions are subject to the adoption and capital expenditure cycles of our customers. As a result, we typically conduct a larger portion of our business during the first and fourth quarters of our fiscal year relative to the second and third quarters. Additionally, for our more complex solutions,


Table of Contents

which may require additional facilities investment, potential customers may spend a substantial amount of time performing internal assessments prior to making a purchase decision. This may cause us to devote significant effort in advance of a potential sale without any guarantee of receiving any related revenues. As a result, revenues and operating results for future periods are difficult to predict with any significant degree of certainty, which could lead to adverse effects on our inventory levels and overall financial condition.

        Due to the foregoing factors, and the other risks discussed in this proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus, you should not rely on quarter-over-quarter and year-over-year comparisons of our operating results as an indicator of our future performance.

The additive manufacturing industry in which we operate is characterized by rapid technological change, which requires us to continue to develop new products and innovations to meet constantly evolving customer demands and which could adversely affect market adoption of our products.

        Our revenues are derived from the sale of additive manufacturing systems and related consumables and services. We have encountered and will continue to encounter challenges experienced by growing companies in a market subject to rapid innovation and technological change. While we intend to invest substantial resources to remain on the forefront of technological development, continuing advances in additive manufacturing technology, changes in customer requirements and preferences and the emergence of new standards, regulations and certifications could adversely affect adoption of our products either generally or for particular applications. Our ability to compete in the additive manufacturing market depends, in large part, on our success in developing and introducing new additive manufacturing systems and technology, in improving our existing products and technology and qualifying new materials which our systems can support. We believe that we must continuously enhance and expand the functionality and features of our products and technologies in order to remain competitive. However, we may not be able to:

    develop cost effective new products and technologies that address the increasingly complex needs of prospective customers;

    enhance our existing products and technologies;

    respond to technological advances and emerging industry standards and certifications on a cost-effective and timely basis;

    adequately protect our intellectual property as we develop new products and technologies;

    identify the appropriate technology or product to which to devote our resources; or

    ensure the availability of cash resources to fund research and development.

        Even if we successfully introduce new additive manufacturing products and technologies and enhance our existing products and technologies, it is possible that these will eventually supplant our existing products or that our competitors will develop new products and technologies that will replace our own. As a result, any of our products may be rendered obsolete or uneconomical by our or our competitors' technological advances, leading to a loss in market share, decline in revenue and adverse effects to our business and prospects.


Table of Contents

The additive manufacturing industry is competitive. We expect to face increasing competition in many aspects of our business, which could cause our operating results to suffer.

        The additive manufacturing industry in which we operate is fragmented and competitive. We compete for customers with a wide variety of producers of additive manufacturing and/or 3D printing equipment that creates 3D objects and end-use parts, as well as with providers of materials and services for this equipment. Some of our existing and potential competitors are researching, designing, developing and marketing other types of products and services that may render our existing or future


Table of Contents

products obsolete, uneconomical or less competitive. Existing and potential competitors may also have substantially greater financial, technical, marketing and sales, manufacturing, distribution and other resources than us, including name recognition, as well as experience and expertise in intellectual property rights and operating within certain international markets, any of which may enable them to compete effectively against us. For example, a number of companies that have substantial resources have announced that they are beginning production of 3D printing systems, which will further enhance the competition we face.

        Future competition may arise from the development of allied or related techniques for equipment, materials and services that are not encompassed by our patents, from the issuance of patents to other companies that may inhibit our ability to develop certain products and from improvements to existing technologies.

        We intend to continue to follow a strategy of continuing product development and distribution network expansion to enhance our competitive position to the extent practicable. But we cannot assure you that we will be able to maintain our current position or continue to compete successfully against current and future sources of competition. If we do not keep pace with technological change and introduce new products and technologies, demand for our products may decline, and our operating results may suffer.

We have generated substantially all of our revenues to date from the sale of a single solution.

        The majority of our revenues generated since inception are derived from sales of our Studio System, which began shipping in volume in the fourth quarter of 2018. Delays in our announced but not yet commercially available additive manufacturing solutions may require that we continue to rely on solely Studio System to achieve our revenue growth targets. If such delays do occur and competitive solutions emerge or we are unable to continue to successfully commercialize the Studio System in the future, our operating results could be harmed. Additionally, our commercialization of the Studio System to date has no bearing on our ability to successfully commercialize additional additive manufacturing solutions on our planned timelines.

We may experience significant delays in the design, production and launch of our additive manufacturing solutions, and we may be unable to successfully commercialize products on our planned timelines.

        Several of our additive manufacturing solutions are still under development. There are often delays in the design, testing, manufacture and commercial release of new products, and any delay in the launch of our products could materially damage our brand, business, growth prospects, financial condition and operating results. Even if we successfully complete the design, testing and manufacture for one or all of our products under development, we may fail to develop a commercially successful product on the timeline we expect for a number of reasons, including:

    misalignment between the products and customer needs;

    lack of innovation of the product;

    failure of the product to perform in accordance with the customer's industry standards;

    ineffective distribution and marketing;

    delay in obtaining any required regulatory approvals;

    unexpected production costs; or

    release of competitive products.

        Our success in the market for the products we develop will depend largely on our ability to prove our products' capabilities in a timely manner. Upon demonstration, our customers may not believe that our products and/or technology have the capabilities they were designed to have or that we believe they


Table of Contents

have. Furthermore, even if we do successfully demonstrate our products' capabilities, potential customers may be more comfortable doing business with another larger and more established company


Table of Contents

or may take longer than expected to make the decision to order our products. Significant revenue from new product investments may not be achieved for a number of years, if at all. If the timing of our launch of new products and/or of our customers' acceptance of such products is different than our assumptions, our revenue and results of operations may be adversely affected.

        Additionally, we intend to establish a parts-as-a-service offering for customers, which may present similar challenges to those outlined above with respect to the design, production, and launch of new additive manufacturing solutions. In particular, we may fail to develop a commercially successful offering if we are unable to meet customer needs or industry standards, if we fail to meet customer price expectations, or if our marketing and distribution strategy proves ineffective. If we are unable to establish such an offering, sales of our additive manufacturing solutions and our overall operating results could suffer. To date, we have not established a parts-as-a-service offering and have not accepted any orders or recognized any revenue from such an offering.

Changes in our product mix may impact our gross margins and financial performance.

        Our financial performance may be affected by the mix of products and services we sell during a given period. Our products are sold, and will continue to be sold, at different price points. Sales of certain of our products have, or are expected to have, higher gross margins than others. If our product mix shifts too far into lower gross margin products, and we are not able to sufficiently reduce the engineering, production and other costs associated with those products or substantially increase the sales of our higher gross margin products, our profitability could be reduced. Additionally, the introduction of new products or services may further heighten quarterly fluctuations in gross profit and gross profit margins due to manufacturing ramp-up and start-up costs. We may experience significant quarterly fluctuations in gross profit margins or operating income or loss due to the impact of the mix of products, channels or geographic areas in which we sell our products from period to period.

Our failure to meet our customers' price expectations would adversely affect our business and results of operations.

        Demand for our product lines is sensitive to price. We believe our competitive pricing has been an important factor in our results to date. Therefore, changes in our pricing strategies can have a significant impact on our business and ability to generate revenue. Many factors, including our production and personnel costs and our competitors' pricing and marketing strategies, can significantly impact our pricing strategies. If we fail to meet our customers' price expectations in any given period, demand for our products and product lines could be negatively impacted and our business and results of operations could suffer.

        We use, and plan to continue using, different pricing models for different products. For example, we plan to use a hardware-as-a-service annual subscription pricing model for certain new products. Such pricing models are still relatively new to some of our customers and may not be attractive to them, especially in regions where they are less common. If customers resist such pricing models, our revenue may be adversely affected and we may need to restructure the way in which we charge customers for our products. To date, while we have accepted pre-orders for our Fiber solution with hardware-as-a-service annual subscription pricing, we have not fulfilled or recognized any revenue from such orders or associated with our hardware-as-a-service annual subscription model in general.

Declines in the prices of our products and services, or in our volume of sales, together with our relatively inflexible cost structure, may adversely affect our financial results.

        Our business is subject to price competition. Such price competition may adversely affect our results of operation, especially during periods of decreased demand. Decreased demand also adversely


Table of Contents

impacts the volume of our systems sales. If our business is not able to offset price reductions resulting from these pressures, or decreased volume of sales due to contractions in the market, by improved operating efficiencies and reduced expenditures, then our operating results will be adversely affected.

        Certain of our operating costs are fixed and cannot readily be reduced, which diminishes the positive impact of our restructuring programs on our operating results. To the extent the demand for our products slows, or the additive manufacturing market contracts, we may be faced with excess manufacturing capacity and related costs that cannot readily be reduced, which will adversely impact our financial condition and results of operations.


Table of Contents

Our business model is predicated, in part, on building a customer base that will generate a recurring stream of revenues through the sale of our consumables and service contracts. If that recurring stream of revenues does not develop as expected, or if our business model changes as the industry evolves, our operating results may be adversely affected.

        Our business model is dependent, in part, on our ability to maintain and increase sales of our proprietary consumables and service contracts as they generate recurring revenues. Existing and future customers of our systems may not purchase our consumables or related service contracts at the same rate at which customers currently purchase those consumables and services. In addition, our entry-level systems focused on low-volume production generally use a lower volume of consumables relative to our higher-end systems focused on high-volume production. If our current and future customers purchase a lower volume of our consumable materials or service contracts, or if our entry-level systems represent an increasing percentage of our future installed customer base, resulting overall in lower purchases of consumables and service contracts on average than our current installed customer base, our recurring revenue stream relative to our total revenues would be reduced and our operating results would be adversely affected.

If demand for our products does not grow as expected, or if market adoption of additive manufacturing does not continue to develop, or develops more slowly than expected, our revenues may stagnate or decline, and our business may be adversely affected.

        The industrial manufacturing market, which today is dominated by conventional manufacturing processes that do not involve 3D printing technology, is undergoing a shift towards additive manufacturing. We may not be able to develop effective strategies to raise awareness among potential customers of the benefits of additive manufacturing technologies or our products may not address the specific needs or provide the level of functionality required by potential customers to encourage the continuation of this shift towards additive manufacturing. If additive manufacturing technology does not continue to gain broader market acceptance as an alternative to conventional manufacturing processes, or if the marketplace adopts additive manufacturing technologies that differ from our technologies, we may not be able to increase or sustain the level of sales of our products, and our operating results would be adversely affected as a result.

Reservations for our Production System may not convert to purchase orders.

        Our Production System is in the late stages of development, and while select early customers are operational with this solution, volume commercial shipments are not scheduled to begin until 2021 and may occur later or not at all. As a result, we have accepted reservations for the Production System, most of which are accompanied by a financial deposit. Given the anticipated lead times between reservations and the date of delivery of the Production Systems, there is a risk that customers who place reservations may ultimately decide not to convert such reservations into purchase orders and take delivery of their reserved Production System due to potential changes in customer preferences, competitive developments or other factors. As a result, no assurance can be made that reservations will result in the purchase of our Production Systems, and any such failure to convert these reservations could harm our business, prospects, financial condition and operating results.


Table of Contents

Defects in new products or in enhancements to our existing products that give rise to product returns or warranty or other claims could result in material expenses, diversion of management time and attention and damage to our reputation.

        Our additive manufacturing solutions are complex and may contain undetected defects or errors when first introduced or as enhancements are released that, despite testing, are not discovered until after a machine has been used. This could result in delayed market acceptance of those products or claims from resellers, customers or others, which may result in litigation, increased end user warranty,


Table of Contents

support and repair or replacement costs, damage to our reputation and business, or significant costs and diversion of support and engineering personnel to correct the defect or error. We may from time to time become subject to warranty or product liability claims related to product quality issues that could lead us to incur significant expenses.

        We attempt to include provisions in our agreements with customers that are designed to limit our exposure to potential liability for damages arising from defects or errors in our products. However, it is possible that these limitations may not be effective as a result of unfavorable judicial decisions or laws enacted in the future.

        The sale and support of our products entails the risk of product liability claims. Any product liability claim brought against us, regardless of its merit, could result in material expense, diversion of management time and attention, damage to our business and reputation and brand, and cause us to fail to retain existing customers or to fail to attract new customers.

We are, and have been in the recent past, subject to litigation.

        We are currently, and have been in the recent past, subject to litigation, and we could be subject to further litigation in the future. In 2018, we brought a claim in Massachusetts federal court against Markforged, Inc., a competitor in the additive manufacturing industry ("Markforged"), regarding patent infringement and trade secret misappropriation. Markforged counterclaimed for trade secret misappropriation. We and Markforged entered into a confidential settlement agreement (the "Settlement Agreement") covering such matters in October 2018. In July 2019, Markforged brought a claim against us in Massachusetts federal court alleging false and misleading statements about their products in violation of the Settlement Agreement, which includes mutual non-disparagement and confidentiality obligations. The matter is currently in arbitration. The arbitration is scheduled to be heard by the end of 2020; however, subsequent proceedings in connection therewith may continue into 2021. See Note 11 to the consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this proxy statement/consent solicitation/prospectus for additional information.

        While we intend to mount vigorous defenses to the above-described proceeding and any future lawsuits that may be brought against us by any third party, we can provide no assurance as to the outcome of any such disputes, and any such actions may result in judgments against us for significant damages. Resolution of any such matters can be prolonged and costly, and the ultimate results or judgments are uncertain due to the inherent uncertainty in litigation and other proceedings. In addition, the additive manufacturing industry has been, and may continue to be, litigious, particularly with respect to intellectual property claims. Moreover, our potential liabilities are subject to change over time due to new developments, changes in settlement strategy or the impact of evidentiary requirements. Regardless of the outcome, litigation has resulted in the past, and may result in the future, in significant legal expenses and require significant attention and resources of management. As a result, any present or future litigation that may be brought against us by any third party could result in losses, damages and expenses that have a significant adverse effect on our financial condition.


Table of Contents

We depend on our network of resellers and our business could be adversely affected if they do not perform as expected.

        We rely heavily on our global network of resellers to sell our products and to provide installation and support services to customers in their respective geographic regions. These resellers may not be as effective in selling our products or installing and supporting our customers as we expect. Further, our contracts with our resellers provide for termination for convenience, and if our contracts with a significant number of resellers, or with the most effective resellers, were to terminate or if they would otherwise fail or refuse to sell certain of our products, we may not be able to find replacements that are as qualified or as successful in a timely manner, if at all. In addition, if our resellers do not


Table of Contents

perform as anticipated, or if we are unable to secure qualified and successful resellers, our sales will suffer, which would have an adverse effect on our revenues and operating results. Because we also depend upon our resellers to provide installation and support services for products, if our reseller relationship were terminated or limited to certain products, we may face disruption in providing support for our customers, which would adversely affect our reputation and our results of operations. Any failure to offer high-quality technical support services may adversely affect our relationships with our customers and adversely affect our financial results.

        Additionally, a default by one or more resellers that have a significant receivables balance could have an adverse financial impact on our financial results. We have reviewed our policies that govern credit and collections and will continue to monitor them in light of current payment status and economic conditions. In addition, we try to reduce the credit exposures of our accounts receivable by instituting credit limits and having credit insurance. However, there can be no assurance that our efforts to identify potential credit risks will be successful. Our inability to timely identify resellers that are credit risks could result in defaults at a time when such resellers have high accounts receivable balances with us. Any such default would result in a significant charge against our earnings and adversely affect our results of operations and financial condition.

Our operations could suffer if we are unable to attract and retain key management or other key employees.

        We believe our success has depended, and continues to depend, on the efforts and talents of our senior management and other key personnel, including, in particular, our co-founder, chief executive officer, and chairman, Ric Fulop. Our executive team is critical to the management of our business and operations, as well as to the development of our strategy. Members of our senior management team may resign at any time. The loss of the services of any members of our senior management team, especially Ric Fulop, could delay or prevent the successful implementation of our strategy or our commercialization of new applications for our systems or other products, or could otherwise adversely affect our ability to manage our company effectively and carry out our business plan. There is no assurance that if any senior executive leaves in the future, we will be able to rapidly replace him or her and transition smoothly towards his or her successor, without any adverse impact on our operations.

        To support the continued growth of our business, we must also effectively recruit, hire, integrate, develop, motivate and retain additional new employees. High demand exists for senior management and other key personnel (including scientific, technical, engineering, financial and sales personnel) in the additive manufacturing industry, and there can be no assurance that we will be able to retain our current key personnel. We experience intense competition for qualified personnel. While we intend to continue to provide competitive compensation packages to attract and retain key personnel, some of our competitors for these employees have greater resources and more experience, making it difficult for us to compete successfully for key personnel. Moreover, new employees may not become as productive as we expect since we may face challenges in adequately integrating them into our workforce and culture. If we cannot attract and retain sufficiently qualified technical employees for our research product development activities, as well as experienced sales and marketing personnel, we may be unable to develop and commercialize new products or new applications for existing products.


Table of Contents

Furthermore, possible shortages of key personnel, including engineers, in the regions surrounding our Boston facility could require us to pay more to hire and retain key personnel, thereby increasing our costs.

        All of our U.S. employees are at-will employees, meaning that they may terminate their employment relationship with us at any time, and their knowledge of our business and industry would be extremely difficult to replace. We generally enter into non-competition agreements with our employees. These agreements prohibit our employees from competing directly with us or working for our competitors or clients while they work for us, and in some cases, for a limited period after they cease working for us. We may be unable to enforce these agreements under the laws of the


Table of Contents

jurisdictions in which our employees work and it may be difficult for us to restrict our competitors from benefiting from the expertise that our former employees or consultants developed while working for us. If we cannot demonstrate that our legally protectable interests will be harmed, we may be unable to prevent our competitors from benefiting from the expertise of our former employees or consultants and our ability to remain competitive may be diminished.

We depend on a limited number of third-party contract manufacturers for substantially all of our manufacturing needs. If these third-party manufacturers experience any delay, disruption or quality control problems in their operations, including due to the COVID-19 pandemic, we could lose market share and our brand may suffer.

        We depend on third-party contract manufacturers for the production of our additive manufacturing systems. While there are several potential manufacturers for most of these products, all of our products are manufactured, assembled, tested and generally packaged by a limited number of third-party manufacturers. In most cases, we rely on these manufacturers to procure components and, in some cases, subcontract engineering work. Our reliance on limited number of contract manufacturers involves a number of risks, including:

    unexpected increases in manufacturing and repair costs;

    inability to control the quality and reliability of finished products;

    inability to control delivery schedules;

    potential liability for expenses incurred by third-party contract manufacturers in reliance on our forecasts that later prove to be inaccurate;

    potential lack of adequate capacity to manufacture all or a part of the products we require; and

    potential labor unrest affecting the ability of the third-party manufacturers to produce our products.

        If any of our third-party contract manufacturers experience a delay, disruption or quality control problems in their operations, including due to the COVID-19 pandemic, or if a primary third-party contract manufacturer does not renew its agreement with us, our operations could be significantly disrupted and our product shipments could be delayed. Qualifying a new manufacturer and commencing volume production is expensive and time consuming. Ensuring that a contract manufacturer is qualified to manufacture our products to our standards is time consuming. In addition, there is no assurance that a contract manufacturer can scale its production of our products at the volumes and in the quality that we require. If a contract manufacturer is unable to do these things, we may have to move production for the products to a new or existing third-party manufacturer, which would take significant effort and our business, results of operations and financial condition could be materially adversely affected.

        As we contemplate moving manufacturing into different jurisdictions, we may be subject to additional significant challenges in ensuring that quality, processes, and costs, among other issues, are consistent with our expectations. For example, while we expect our third-party contract manufacturers


Table of Contents

to be responsible for penalties assessed on us because of excessive failures of the products, there is no assurance that we will be able to collect such reimbursements from these manufacturers, which causes us to take on additional risk for potential failures of our products.

        In addition, because we use a limited number of third-party contract manufacturers, increases in the prices charged may have an adverse effect on our results of operations, as we may be unable to find a contract manufacturer who can supply us at a lower price. As a result, the loss of a limited source supplier could adversely affect our relationships with our customers and our results of operations and financial condition.


Table of Contents

        All of our products must satisfy safety and regulatory standards and some of our products must also receive government certifications. Our third-party contract manufacturers are primarily responsible for conducting the tests that support our applications for most regulatory approvals for our products. If our third-party contract manufacturers fail to timely and accurately conduct these tests, we may be unable to obtain the necessary domestic or foreign regulatory approvals or certifications to sell our products in certain jurisdictions. As a result, we would be unable to sell our products and our sales and profitability could be reduced, our relationships with our sales channel could be harmed and our reputation and brand would suffer.

If our suppliers become unavailable or inadequate, our customer relationships, results of operations and financial condition may be adversely affected.

        We acquire certain of our materials, which are critical to the ongoing operation and future growth of our business, from several third parties. Generally, our third-party contract manufacturers contract directly with component suppliers we rely on our contract manufacturers to manage their supply chains. If one of our contract manufacturers has supply chain disruption, or our relationship with our contract manufacturer terminates, we could experience delay. We also source some materials directly from suppliers. While most manufacturing equipment and materials for our products are available from multiple suppliers, certain of those items are only available from limited sources. Should any of these suppliers become unavailable or inadequate, or impose terms unacceptable to us, such as increased pricing terms, we could be required to spend a significant amount of time and expense to develop alternate sources of supply, and we may not be successful in doing so on terms acceptable to us, or at all. As a result, the loss of a limited source supplier could adversely affect our relationship with our customers as well as our results of operations and financial condition.

Our third-party contract manufacturers' facilities, and our suppliers' and our customers' facilities, are vulnerable to disruption due to natural or other disasters, strikes and other events beyond our control.

        A major earthquake, fire, tsunami, hurricane, cyclone or other disaster, such as a major flood, seasonal storms, nuclear event or terrorist attack affecting our facilities or the areas in which they are located, or affecting those of our customers or third-party manufacturers or suppliers, could significantly disrupt our or their operations and delay or prevent product shipment or installation during the time required to repair, rebuild or replace our or their damaged manufacturing facilities. These delays could be lengthy and costly. If any of our third-party contract manufacturers', suppliers' or customers' facilities are negatively impacted by such a disaster, production, shipment and installation of our 3D printing machines could be delayed, which can impact the period in which we recognize the revenue related to that 3D printing machine sale. Additionally, customers may delay purchases of our products until operations return to normal. Even if we are able to respond quickly to a disaster, the continued effects of the disaster could create uncertainty in our business operations. In addition, concerns about terrorism, the effects of a terrorist attack, political turmoil, labor strikes, war or the outbreak of epidemic diseases (including the outbreak of the coronavirus disease COVID-19) could have a negative effect on our operations and sales.


Table of Contents

If we fail to grow our business as anticipated, our net sales, gross margin and operating margin will be adversely affected. If we grow as anticipated but fail to manage our growth and expand our operations accordingly, our business may be harmed and our results of operation may suffer.

        Over the past several years, we have experienced rapid growth, and we are attempting to continue to grow our business substantially. To this end, we have made, and expect to continue to make, significant investments in our business, including investments in our infrastructure, technology, marketing and sales efforts. These investments include dedicated facilities expansion and increased


Table of Contents

staffing, both domestic and international. If our business does not generate the level of revenue required to support our investment, our net sales and profitability will be adversely affected.

        Our ability to effectively manage our anticipated growth and expansion of our operations will also require us to enhance our operational, financial and management controls and infrastructure, human resources policies and reporting systems. These enhancements and improvements will require significant capital expenditures, investments in additional headcount and other operating expenditures and allocation of valuable management and employee resources. Our future financial performance and our ability to execute on our business plan will depend, in part, on our ability to effectively manage any future growth and expansion. There are no guarantees we will be able to do so in an efficient or timely manner, or at all.

Our existing and planned global operations subject us to a variety of risks and uncertainties that could adversely affect our business and operating results. Our business is subject to risks associated with selling machines and other products in non-United States locations.

        Our products and services are distributed in more than 60 countries around the world, and we derive a substantial percentage of our sales from these international markets. In 2019, we derived approximately 40% of our revenues from countries outside the United States. Accordingly, we face significant operational risks from doing business internationally.

        Our operating results may be affected by volatility in currency exchange rates and our ability to effectively manage our currency transaction risks. We incur currency transaction risks if we were to enter into either a purchase or a sale transaction using a different currency from the currency in which we report revenues. In such cases we may suffer an exchange loss because we do not currently engage in currency swaps or other currency hedging strategies to address this risk. As we realize our strategy to expand internationally, our exposure to currency risks may increase. Given the volatility of exchange rates, we can give no assurance that we will be able to effectively manage our currency transaction risks or that any volatility in currency exchange rates will not have an adverse effect on our results of operations.

        Other risks and uncertainties we face from our global operations include:

    difficulties in staffing and managing foreign operations;

    limited protection for the enforcement of contract and intellectual property rights in certain countries where we may sell or products or work with suppliers or other third parties;

    potentially longer sales and payment cycles and potentially greater difficulties in collecting accounts receivable;

    costs and difficulties of customizing products for foreign countries;

    challenges in providing solutions across a significant distance, in different languages and among different cultures;

    laws and business practices favoring local competition;

    being subject to a wide variety of complex foreign laws, treaties and regulations and adjusting to any unexpected changes in such laws, treaties and regulations;

Table of Contents

    specific and significant regulations, including the European Union's General Data Protection Regulation ("GDPR"), which imposes compliance obligations on companies who possess and use data of EU residents;

    uncertainty and resultant political, financial and market instability arising from the United Kingdom's exit from the European Union;


Table of Contents

    compliance with U.S. laws affecting activities of U.S. companies abroad, including the U.S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act;

    tariffs, trade barriers and other regulatory or contractual limitations on our ability to sell or develop our products in certain foreign markets;

    operating in countries with a higher incidence of corruption and fraudulent business practices;

    changes in regulatory requirements, including export controls, tariffs and embargoes, other trade restrictions, competition, corporate practices and data privacy concerns;

    potential adverse tax consequences arising from global operations;

    seasonal reductions in business activity in certain parts of the world, particularly during the summer months in Europe and at year end globally;

    rapid changes in government, economic and political policies and conditions; and

    political or civil unrest or instability, terrorism or epidemics and other similar outbreaks or events.

        In addition, additive manufacturing has been identified by the U.S. Government as an emerging technology and is currently being further evaluated for national security impacts. We expect additional regulatory changes to be implemented that will result in increased and/or new export controls related to 3D printing technologies, components and related materials and software. These changes, if implemented, may result in our being required to obtain additional approvals and/or licenses to sell 3D printers in the global market.

        Our failure to effectively manage the risks and uncertainties associated with our global operations could limit the future growth of our business and adversely affect our business and operating results.

As part of our growth strategy, we intend to acquire or make investments in other businesses, patents, technologies, products or services. Our failure to do so successfully could disrupt our business and have an adverse impact on our financial condition.

        We have acquired and invested in companies in the past and intended to continue to do so in the future. To the extent we seek to grow our business through acquisitions, we may not be able to successfully identify attractive acquisition opportunities or consummate any such acquisitions if we cannot reach an agreement on commercially favorable terms, if we lack sufficient resources to finance the transaction on our own and cannot obtain financing at a reasonable cost or if regulatory authorities prevent such transaction from being consummated. In addition, competition for acquisitions in the markets in which we operate during recent years has increased, and may continue to increase, which may result in an increase in the costs of acquisitions or cause us to refrain from making certain acquisitions. We may not be able to complete future acquisitions on favorable terms, if at all.

        If we do complete future acquisitions, we cannot assure you that they will ultimately strengthen our competitive position or that they will be viewed positively by customers, financial markets or investors. Furthermore, future acquisitions could pose numerous additional risks to our operations, including:

    diversion of management's attention from their day-to-day responsibilities;

    unanticipated costs or liabilities associated with the acquisition;

Table of Contents

    incurrence of acquisition-related costs, which would be recognized as a current period expense;

    problems integrating the purchased business, products or technologies;

    challenges in achieving strategic objectives, cost savings and other anticipated benefits;


Table of Contents

    inability to maintain relationships with key customers, suppliers, vendors and other third parties on which the purchased business relies;

    the difficulty of incorporating acquired technology and rights into our platform and of maintaining quality and security standards consistent with our brand;

    difficulty in maintaining controls, procedures and policies during the transition and integration;

    challenges in integrating the new workforce and the potential loss of key employees, particularly those of the acquired business; and

    use of substantial portions of our available cash or the incurrence of debt to consummate the acquisition.

        If we proceed with a particular acquisition, we may have to use cash, issue new equity securities with dilutive effects on existing shareholders, incur indebtedness, assume contingent liabilities or amortize assets or expenses in a manner that might have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations. Acquisitions will also require us to record certain acquisition-related costs and other items as current period expenses, which would have the effect of reducing our reported earnings in the period in which an acquisition is consummated. In addition, we could also face unknown liabilities or write-offs due to our acquisitions, which could result in a significant charge to our earnings in the period in which they occur. We will also be required to record goodwill or other long-lived asset impairment charges (if any) in the periods in which they occur, which could result in a significant charge to our earnings in any such period.

        Achieving the expected returns and synergies from future acquisitions will depend, in part, upon our ability to integrate the products and services, technology, administrative functions and personnel of these businesses into our product lines in an efficient and effective manner. We cannot assure you that we will be able to do so, that our acquired businesses will perform at levels and on the timelines anticipated by our management or that we will be able to obtain these synergies. In addition, acquired technologies and intellectual property may be rendered obsolete or uneconomical by our own or our competitors' technological advances. Management resources may also be diverted from operating our existing businesses to certain acquisition integration challenges. If we are unable to successfully integrate acquired businesses, our anticipated revenues and profits may be lower. Our profit margins may also be lower, or diluted, following the acquisition of companies whose profit margins are less than those of our existing businesses.

We may require additional capital to support business growth, and this capital might not be available on acceptable terms, if at all.

        We intend to continue to make investments to support our business growth and may require additional funds to respond to business challenges and opportunities, including the need to develop new features or enhance our products, improve our operating infrastructure or acquire complementary businesses and technologies. Accordingly, we may need to engage in equity or debt financings to secure additional funds if our existing sources of cash and any funds generated from operations do not provide us with sufficient capital. If we raise additional funds through future issuances of equity or convertible debt securities, our existing stockholders could suffer significant dilution, and any new equity securities we issue could have rights, preferences and privileges superior to those of holders of our common stock. Any debt financing that we may secure in the future could involve restrictive covenants relating to our capital raising activities and other financial and operational matters, which may make it more difficult for us to obtain additional capital and to pursue business opportunities, including potential


Table of Contents

acquisitions. We may not be able to obtain additional financing on terms favorable to us, if at all. If we are unable to obtain adequate financing or financing on terms satisfactory to us when we require it, our


Table of Contents

ability to continue to support our business growth and to respond to business challenges and opportunities could be significantly impaired, and our business may be adversely affected.

In the future, some of our arrangements for additive manufacturing solutions may contain customer-specific provisions that may impact the period in which we recognize the related revenues under GAAP.

        Some customers that purchase additive manufacturing solutions from us may require specific, customized factors relating to their intended use of the solution or the installation of the product in the customers' facilities. These specific, customized factors are occasionally required by the customers to be included in our commercial agreements relating to the purchases. As a result, our responsiveness to our customers' specific requirements has the potential to impact the period in which we recognize the revenue relating to that additive manufacturing system sale.

        Similarly, some of our customers must build or prepare facilities to install a subset of our additive manufacturing solutions, and the completion of such projects can be unpredictable, which can impact the period in which we recognize the revenue relating to that additive manufacturing solution sale.

We could be subject to personal injury, property damage, product liability, warranty and other claims involving allegedly defective products that we supply.

        The products we supply are sometimes used in potentially hazardous or critical applications, such as the assembled parts of an aircraft, medical device or automobile, that could result in death, personal injury, property damage, loss of production, punitive damages and consequential damages. While we have not experienced any such claims to date, actual or claimed defects in the products we supply could result in our being named as a defendant in lawsuits asserting potentially large claims.

        We attempt to include legal provisions in our agreements with customers that are designed to limit our exposure to potential liability for damages arising from defects or errors in our products. However, it is possible that these limitations may not be effective as a result of unfavorable judicial decisions or laws enacted in the future. Any such lawsuit, regardless of merit, could result in material expense, diversion of management time and efforts and damage to our reputation, and could cause us to fail to retain or attract customers, which could adversely affect our results of operations.

We could face liability if our additive manufacturing solutions are used by our customers to print dangerous objects.

        Customers may use our additive manufacturing systems to print parts that could be used in a harmful way or could otherwise be dangerous. For example, there have been news reports that 3D printers were used to print guns or other weapons. We have little, if any, control over what objects our customers print using our products, and it may be difficult, if not impossible, for us to monitor and prevent customers from printing weapons with our products. While we have never printed weapons on any printers in our offices, there can be no assurance that we will not be held liable if someone were injured or killed by a weapon printed by a customer using one of our products.

Failure of our global operations to comply with anti-corruption laws and various trade restrictions, such as sanctions and export controls, could have an adverse effect on our business.

        We operate in a number of countries throughout the world, including countries known to have a reputation for corruption. Doing business on a global basis requires us to comply with anti-corruption laws and regulations imposed by governments around the world with jurisdiction over our operations, including the U.S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act and the U.K. Bribery Act 2010, as well as the laws of the countries where we do business. We are also subject to various trade restrictions, including trade and economic sanctions and export controls, imposed by governments around the world with


Table of Contents

jurisdiction over our operations. For example, in accordance with trade sanctions administered by the


Table of Contents

Office of Foreign Assets Control and the U.S. Department of Commerce, we are prohibited from engaging in transactions involving certain persons and certain designated countries or territories, including Cuba, Iran, Syria, North Korea and the Crimea Region of Ukraine. In addition, our products are subject to export regulations that can involve significant compliance time and may add additional overhead cost to our products. In recent years the United States government has a renewed focus on export matters. For example, the Export Control Reform Act of 2018 and regulatory guidance thereunder have imposed additional controls, and may result in the imposition of further additional controls, on the export of certain "emerging and foundational technologies." Our current and future products may be subject to these heightened regulations, which could increase our compliance costs.

        We are committed to doing business in accordance with applicable anti-corruption laws and regulations and with applicable trade restrictions. We are subject, however, to the risk that our affiliated entities or our and our affiliates' respective officers, directors, employees and agents (including distributors of our products) may take action determined to be in violation of such laws and regulations. Any violation by any of these persons could result in substantial fines, sanctions, civil and/or criminal penalties, or curtailment of operations in certain jurisdictions, and might adversely affect our operating results. In addition, actual or alleged violations could damage our reputation and ability to do business.

We are subject to environmental, health and safety laws and regulations related to our operations and the use of our additive manufacturing systems and consumable materials, which could subject us to compliance costs and/or potential liability in the event of non-compliance.

        We are subject to domestic and foreign environmental laws and regulations governing our operations, including, but not limited to, emissions into the air and water and the use, handling, disposal and remediation of hazardous substances. A certain risk of environmental liability is inherent in our production activities. These laws and regulations govern, among other things, the generation, use, storage, registration, handling and disposal of chemicals and waste materials, the presence of specified substances in electrical products, the emission and discharge of hazardous materials into the ground, air or water, the cleanup of contaminated sites, including any contamination that results from spills due to our failure to properly dispose of chemicals and other waste materials and the health and safety of our employees. Under these laws, regulations and requirements, we could also be subject to liability for improper disposal of chemicals and waste materials, including those resulting from the use of our systems and accompanying materials by end-users. Accidents or other incidents that occur at our facilities or involve our personnel or operations could result in claims for damages against us. In the event we are found to be financially responsible, as a result of environmental or other laws or by court order, for environmental damages alleged to have been caused by us or occurring on our premises, we could be required to pay substantial monetary damages or undertake expensive remedial obligations. If our operations fail to comply with such laws or regulations, we may be subject to fines and other civil, administrative or criminal sanctions, including the revocation of permits and licenses necessary to continue our business activities. In addition, we may be required to pay damages or civil judgments in respect of third-party claims, including those relating to personal injury (including exposure to hazardous substances that we generate, use, store, handle, transport, manufacture or dispose of), property damage or contribution claims. Some environmental laws allow for strict, joint and several liabilities for remediation costs, regardless of fault. We may be identified as a potentially responsible party under such laws. The amount of any costs, including fines or damages payments that we might incur under such circumstances could substantially exceed any insurance we have to cover such losses. Any of these events, alone or in combination, could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations and could adversely affect our reputation.

        The export of our products internationally from our production facilities subjects us to environmental laws and regulations concerning the import and export of chemicals and hazardous


Table of Contents

substances such as the United States Toxic Substances Control Act ("TSCA") and the Registration, Evaluation, Authorization and Restriction of Chemical Substances ("REACH"). These laws and regulations require the testing and registration of some chemicals that we ship along with, or that form a part of, our systems and other products. If we fail to comply with these or similar laws and regulations, we may be required to make significant expenditures to reformulate the chemicals that we use in our products and materials or incur costs to register such chemicals to gain and/or regain compliance. Additionally, we could be subject to significant fines or other civil and criminal penalties should we not achieve such compliance.

        The cost of complying with current and future environmental, health and safety laws applicable to our operations, or the liabilities arising from past releases of, or exposure to, hazardous substances, may result in future expenditures. Any of these developments, alone or in combination, could have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Aspects of our business are subject to privacy, data use and data security regulations, which could increase our costs.

        We collect personally identifiable information from our employees, prospects, and our customers. Privacy and security laws and regulations may limit the use and disclosure of certain information and require us to adopt certain cybersecurity and data handling practices that may affect our ability to effectively market our services to current, past or prospective customers. We must comply with privacy laws in the United States, Europe and elsewhere, including GDPR in the European Union, which became effective May 25, 2018, and the California Consumer Privacy Act of 2018, which was enacted on June 28, 2018 and became effective on January 1, 2020. These laws create new individual privacy rights and impose increased obligations, including disclosure obligations, on companies handling personal data. In many jurisdictions, consumers must be notified in the event of a data security breach, and such notification requirements continue to increase in scope and cost. Privacy and security laws and regulations may limit the use and disclosure of certain information and require us to adopt certain cybersecurity and data handling practices that may affect our ability to effectively market our services to current, past or prospective customers. While we have invested in, and intend to continue to invest in, resources to comply with these standards, we may not be successful in doing so, and any such failure could have adverse effect on our business, results of operations and reputation.

        As privacy, data use and data security laws are interpreted and applied, compliance costs may increase, particularly in the context of ensuring that adequate data protection and data transfer mechanisms are in place. In recent years, there has been increasing regulatory enforcement and litigation activity in this area in the United States, Germany and in various other countries in which we operate.

We rely on our information technology systems to manage numerous aspects of our business and a disruption of these systems could adversely affect our business.

        We rely on our information technology systems to manage numerous aspects of our business, including to efficiently purchase products from our suppliers, provide procurement and logistic services, ship products to our customers, manage our accounting and financial functions, including our internal controls, and maintain our research and development data. Our information technology systems are an essential component of our business and any disruption could significantly limit our ability to manage and operate our business efficiently. A failure of our information technology systems to perform properly could disrupt our supply chain, product development and customer experience, which may lead to increased overhead costs and decreased sales and have an adverse effect on our reputation and our financial condition. In addition, during the COVID-19 pandemic, a substantial portion of our employees have conducted work remotely, making us more dependent on potentially vulnerable communications systems and making us more vulnerable to cyberattacks.


Table of Contents

        Although we take steps and incur significant costs to secure our information technology systems, including our computer systems, intranet and internet sites, email and other telecommunications and data networks, our security measures may not be effective and our systems may be vulnerable to damage or interruption. Disruption to our information technology systems could result from power outages, computer and telecommunications failures, computer viruses, cyber-attack or other security breaches, catastrophic events such as fires, floods, earthquakes, tornadoes, hurricanes, acts of war, terrorism and usage errors by our employees.

        Our reputation and financial condition could be adversely affected if, as a result of a significant cyber-event or otherwise:

    our operations are disrupted or shut down;

    our confidential, proprietary information is stolen or disclosed;

    we incur costs or are required to pay fines in connection with stolen customer, employee or other confidential information;

    we must dedicate significant resources to system repairs or increase cyber security protection; or

    we otherwise incur significant litigation or other costs.

        If our computer systems are damaged or cease to function properly, or, if we do not replace or upgrade certain systems, we may incur substantial costs to repair or replace them and may experience an interruption of our normal business activities or loss of critical data. Any such disruption could adversely affect our reputation and financial condition.

        We also rely on information technology systems maintained by third parties, including third-party cloud computing services and the computer systems of our suppliers for both our internal operations and our customer-facing infrastructure related to our additive manufacturing solutions. These systems are also vulnerable to the types of interruption and damage described above but we have less ability to take measures to protect against such disruptions or to resolve them if they were to occur. Information technology problems faced by third parties on which we rely could adversely impact our business and financial condition as well as negatively impact our brand reputation.

Our current levels of insurance may not be adequate for our potential liabilities.

        We maintain insurance to cover our potential exposure for most claims and losses, including potential product and non-product related claims, lawsuits and administrative proceedings seeking damages or other remedies arising out of our commercial operations. However, our insurance coverage is subject to various exclusions, self-retentions and deductibles. We may be faced with types of liabilities that are not covered under our insurance policies, such as environmental contamination or terrorist attacks, or that exceed our policy limits. Even a partially uninsured claim of significant size, if successful, could have an adverse effect on our financial condition.

        In addition, we may not be able to continue to obtain insurance coverage on commercially reasonable terms, or at all, and our existing policies may be cancelled or otherwise terminated by the insurer. Maintaining adequate insurance and successfully accessing insurance coverage that may be due for a claim can require a significant amount of our management's time, and we may be forced to spend a substantial amount of money in that process.

Because the additive manufacturing market is rapidly evolving, forecasts of market growth in this proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus may not be accurate.

        Market opportunity estimates and growth forecasts included in this proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus are subject to significant uncertainty and are based on assumptions


Table of Contents

and estimates that may not prove to be accurate. The forecasts and estimates in this proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus relating to the expected size and growth of the markets for


Table of Contents

additive manufacturing technology and other markets in which we participate may prove to be inaccurate. Even if these markets experience the forecasted growth described in this proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus, we may not grow our business at similar rates, or at all. Our future growth is subject to many factors, including market adoption of our products, which is subject to many risks and uncertainties. Accordingly, the forecasts and estimates of market size and growth described in this proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus, including our estimates that the size of the total addressable market is expected to be approximately $146 billion in 2030, should not be taken as indicative of our future growth. In addition, these forecasts do not consider the impact of the current global COVID-19 pandemic, and we cannot assure you that these forecasts will not be materially and adversely affected as a result.

Our business activities may be disrupted due to the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic.

        We face various risks and uncertainties related to the global outbreak of a new strain of coronavirus, COVID-19. In recent months, the continued spread of COVID-19 has led to disruption and volatility in the global economy and capital markets, which increases the cost of capital and adversely impacts access to capital. Government-enforced travel bans and business closures around the world have significantly impacted our ability to sell, install and service our additive manufacturing systems at customers around the world. It has, and may continue to, disrupt our third-party contract manufacturers and supply chain. We currently anticipate customer payment delays for our products which could negatively impact our results of operations. We also expect some delays in installation of our products at customers' facilities, which could lead to postponed revenue recognition for those transactions. Furthermore, if significant portions of our workforce are unable to work effectively, including because of illness, quarantines, government actions, facility closures, remote working or other restrictions in connection with the COVID-19 pandemic, our operations will likely be adversely impacted.

        If the COVID-19 pandemic continues for a prolonged duration, we or our customers may be unable to perform fully on our contracts, which will likely result in increases in costs and reduction in revenue. These cost increases may not be fully recoverable or adequately covered by insurance. The long-term effects of COVID-19 to the global economy and to us are difficult to assess or predict and may include a further decline in the market prices of our products, risks to employee health and safety, risks for the deployment of our products and services and reduced sales in geographic locations impacted. Any prolonged restrictive measures put in place in order to control COVID-19 or other adverse public health developments in any of our targeted markets may have a material and adverse effect on our business operations and results of operations.

Global economic, political and social conditions and uncertainties in the market that we serve may adversely impact our business.

        Our performance depends on the financial health and strength of our customers, which in turn is dependent on the economic conditions of the markets in which we and our customers operate. The recent declines in the global economy, difficulties in the financial services sector and credit markets, continuing geopolitical uncertainties and other macroeconomic factors all affect the spending behavior of potential customers. The economic uncertainty in Europe, the United States, India, China and other countries may cause end-users to further delay or reduce technology purchases.

        We also face risks from financial difficulties or other uncertainties experienced by our suppliers, distributors or other third parties on which we rely. If third parties are unable to supply us with required materials or components or otherwise assist us in operating our business, our business could be harmed.


Table of Contents

        For example, the possibility of an ongoing trade war between the United States and China may impact the cost of raw materials, finished products or components used in our products and our ability to sell our products in China. Other changes in U.S. social, political, regulatory and economic conditions or in laws and policies governing foreign trade, manufacturing, development and investment could also adversely affect our business. In addition, the ongoing negotiations about transitioning the United Kingdom from the European Union following its formal exit on January 31, 2020 may result in the imposition of tariffs that could have an adverse impact on our results of operation. Additionally, there also is a risk that other countries may decide to leave the European Union. This uncertainty surrounding this transition not only potentially affects our business in the United Kingdom and the European Union, but also may have an effect on global economic conditions and the stability of global financial markets, which in turn could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. In extreme cases, we could experience interruptions in production due to the processing of customs formalities or reduced customer spending in the wake of weaker economic performance. If global economic conditions remain volatile for a prolonged period or if European economies experience further disruptions, our results of operations could be adversely affected.

Third-party lawsuits and assertions to which we are subject alleging our infringement of patents, trade secrets or other intellectual property rights may have a significant adverse effect on our financial condition.

        Third parties may own issued patents and pending patent applications that exist in fields relevant to additive manufacturing. Some of these third parties may assert that we are employing their proprietary technology without authorization. There may be third-party patents or patent applications with claims related to additive manufacturing. Because patent applications can take many years to issue, there may be currently pending patent applications which may later result in issued patents that our additive technologies may infringe. In addition, third parties may obtain patents in the future and claim that our technologies infringe upon these patents. Any third-party lawsuits or other assertion to which we are subject alleging our infringement of patents, trade secrets or other intellectual property rights may have a significant adverse effect on our financial condition.

We may incur substantial costs enforcing and defending our intellectual property rights.

        We may incur substantial expense costs in protecting, enforcing and defending our intellectual property rights against third parties. Intellectual property disputes may be costly and can be disruptive to our business operations by diverting attention and energies of management and key technical personnel and by increasing our costs of doing business. Third-party intellectual property claims asserted against us could subject us to significant liabilities, require us to enter into royalty and licensing arrangements on unfavorable terms, prevent us from assembling or licensing certain of our products, subject us to injunctions restricting our sale of products, cause severe disruptions to our operations or the marketplaces in which we compete or require us to satisfy indemnification commitments with our customers, including contractual provisions under various license arrangements. In addition, we may incur significant costs in acquiring the necessary third-party intellectual property rights for use in our products. Any of these could have an adverse effect on our business and financial condition.

If we are unable to adequately protect or enforce our intellectual property rights, such information may be used by others to compete against us, in particular in developing consumables that could be used with our printing systems in place of our proprietary consumables.

        We have devoted substantial resources to the development of our technology and related intellectual property rights. Our success and future revenue growth will depend, in part, on our ability to protect our intellectual property. We rely on a combination of registered and unregistered


Table of Contents

intellectual property and protect our rights using patents, licenses, trademarks, trade secrets, confidentiality and assignment of invention agreements and other methods.

        Despite our efforts to protect our proprietary rights, it is possible that competitors or other unauthorized third parties may obtain, copy, use or disclose our technologies, inventions, processes or improvements. We cannot assure you that any of our existing or future patents or other intellectual property rights will not be challenged, invalidated or circumvented, or will otherwise provide us with meaningful protection. Our pending patent applications may not be granted, and we may not be able to obtain foreign patents or pending applications corresponding to our U.S. patents. Even if foreign patents are granted, effective enforcement in foreign countries may not be available.

        Our trade secrets, know-how and other unregistered proprietary rights are a key aspect of our intellectual property portfolio. While we take reasonable steps to protect our trade secrets and confidential information and enter into confidentiality and invention assignment agreements intended to protect such rights, such agreements can be difficult and costly to enforce or may not provide adequate remedies if violated, and we may not have entered into such agreements with all relevant parties. Such agreements may be breached and trade secrets or confidential information may be willfully or unintentionally disclosed, including by employees who may leave our company and join our competitors, or our competitors or other parties may learn of the information in some other way. The disclosure to, or independent development by, a competitor of any of our trade secrets, know-how or other technology not protected by a patent or other intellectual property system could materially reduce or eliminate any competitive advantage that we may have over such competitor. This concern could manifest itself in particular with respect to our proprietary consumables that are used with our systems. Portions of our proprietary consumables may not be afforded patent protection. Chemical companies or other producers of raw materials used in our consumables may be able to develop consumables that are compatible to a large extent with our products, whether independently or in contravention of our trade secret rights and related proprietary and contractual rights. If such consumables are made available to owners of our systems, and are purchased in place of our proprietary consumables, our revenues and profitability would be reduced, and we could be forced to reduce prices for our proprietary consumables.

        If our patents and other intellectual property do not adequately protect our technology, our competitors may be able to offer products similar to ours. Our competitors may also be able to develop similar technology independently or design around our patents and other intellectual property. Any of the foregoing events would lead to increased competition and reduce our revenue or gross margin, which would adversely affect our operating results.

        If we attempt enforcement of our intellectual property rights, we may be, and have been in the past, subject or party to claims, negotiations or complex, protracted litigation. Intellectual property disputes and litigation, regardless of merit, can be costly and disruptive to our business operations by diverting attention and energies of management and key technical personnel and by increasing our costs of doing business. Any of the foregoing could adversely affect our business and financial condition.

        As part of any settlement or other compromise to avoid complex, protracted litigation, we may agree not to pursue future claims against a third party, including related to alleged infringement of our intellectual property rights. Part of any settlement or other compromise with another party may resolve a potentially costly dispute but may also have future repercussions on our ability to defend and protect our intellectual property rights, which in turn could adversely affect our business.


Table of Contents

Our internal controls over financial reporting currently do not meet all of the standards contemplated by Section 404 of Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (the "Sarbanes-Oxley Act"), and failure to achieve and maintain effective internal controls over financial reporting in accordance with Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act could impair our ability to produce timely and accurate financial statements or comply with applicable regulations and have a material adverse effect on our business.

        We have been operating as a private company. Following the Business Combination, our management will have significant requirements for enhanced financial reporting and internal controls as a public company. The process of designing and implementing effective internal controls is a continuous effort that will require us to anticipate and react to changes in our business and the economic and regulatory environments and to expend significant resources to maintain a system of internal controls that is adequate to satisfy our reporting obligations as a public company. If we are unable to establish or maintain appropriate internal financial reporting controls and procedures, it could cause us to fail to meet our reporting obligations on a timely basis or result in material misstatements in our consolidated financial statements, which could harm our operating results. In addition, we will be required, pursuant to Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act, to furnish a report by management on, among other things, the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting. This assessment will need to include disclosure of any material weaknesses identified by our management in our internal control over financial reporting. The rules governing the standards that must be met for our management to assess our internal control over financial reporting are complex and require significant documentation, testing, and possible remediation. Testing and maintaining internal controls may divert management's attention from other matters that are important to our business. Our independent registered public accounting firm will be required to attest to the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting on an annual basis. However, while we remain an emerging growth company, we will not be required to include an attestation report on internal control over financial reporting issued by our independent registered public accounting firm. If we are not able to complete our initial assessment of our internal controls and otherwise implement the requirements of Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act in a timely manner or with adequate compliance, our independent registered public accounting firm may not be able to certify as to the adequacy of our internal controls over financial reporting.

        In addition to our results determined in accordance with GAAP, we believe certain non-GAAP measures may be useful in evaluating our operating performance. We present certain non-GAAP financial measures in this proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus and intend to continue to present certain non-GAAP financial measures in future filings with the SEC and other public statements. Any failure to accurately report and present our non-GAAP financial measures could cause investors to lose confidence in our reported financial and other information, which would likely have a negative effect on the trading price of our common stock.

        Matters impacting our internal controls may cause us to be unable to report our financial information on a timely basis and thereby subject us to adverse regulatory consequences, including sanctions by the SEC or violations of applicable stock exchange listing rules, which may result in a breach of the covenants under existing or future financing arrangements. There also could be a negative reaction in the financial markets due to a loss of investor confidence in us and the reliability of our financial statements. Confidence in the reliability of our financial statements also could suffer if we or our independent registered public accounting firm continue to report a material weakness in our internal controls over financial reporting. This could materially adversely affect us and lead to a decline in the market price of our common stock.

        Our management and auditors determined that a material weakness existed in the internal control over financial reporting due to the fact that we had not completed an annual or quarterly close under a timeline that would be compatible with public company filing deadlines, and with the limited accounting department personnel, this may not be achievable. A material weakness is a deficiency, or


Table of Contents

combination of deficiencies, in internal control over financial reporting such that there is a reasonable possibility that a material misstatement of our annual or interim consolidated financial statements will not be prevented or detected on a timely basis. While we have instituted plans to remediate the issue described above and continue to take remediation steps, including hiring additional personnel subsequent to December 31, 2019, including a vice president of accounting with public company experience, we continued to have a limited number of personnel with the level of GAAP accounting knowledge, specifically related to complex accounting transactions, commensurate with our financial reporting requirements.

        Although we believe the hiring of additional accounting resources, implementation of additional reviews and processes requiring timely account reconciliations and analysis and implementation of processes and controls to better identify and manage segregation of duties will remediate the weakness with respect to insufficient personnel, there can be no assurance that the material weakness will be remediated on a timely basis or at all, or that additional material weaknesses will not be identified in the future. If we are unable to remediate the material weakness, our ability to record, process, and report financial information accurately, and to prepare financial statements within the time periods specified by the rules and forms of the SEC, could be adversely affected which, in turn, to may adversely affect our reputation and business and the market price of our common stock.

Our additive manufacturing software contains third-party open-source software components, and failure to comply with the terms of the underlying open-source software licenses could restrict our ability to sell our products.

        Our additive manufacturing software contains components that are licensed under so-called "open source," "free" or other similar licenses. Open source software is made available to the general public on an "as-is" basis under the terms of a non-negotiable license. We currently combine our proprietary software with open source software, but not in a manner that we believe requires the release of the source code of our proprietary software to the public. We do not plan to integrate our proprietary software with open source software in ways that would require the release of the source code of our proprietary software to the public; however, our use and distribution of open source software may entail greater risks than use of third-party commercial software. Open source licensors generally do not provide warranties or other contractual protections regarding infringement claims or the quality of the code. In addition, if we combine our proprietary software with open source software in a certain manner, we could, under certain open source licenses, be required to release to the public or remove the source code of our proprietary software. We may also face claims alleging noncompliance with open source license terms or infringement or misappropriation of proprietary software. These claims could result in litigation, require us to purchase a costly license or remove the software. In addition, if the license terms for open source software that we use change, we may be forced to re-engineer our solutions, incur additional costs or discontinue the sale of our offerings if re-engineering could not be accomplished on a timely basis. Although we monitor our use of open source software to avoid subjecting our offerings to unintended conditions, there is a risk that these licenses could be construed in a way that could impose unanticipated conditions or restrictions on our ability to commercialize our offerings. We cannot guarantee that we have incorporated open source software in our software in a manner that will not subject us to liability or in a manner that is consistent with our current policies and procedures.

Risks Relating to the Business Combination

Because the market price of shares of Trine's Class A common stock will fluctuate, Desktop Metal's stockholders cannot be sure of the value of the merger consideration they will receive.

        The aggregate merger consideration that Desktop Metal stockholders will receive is a fixed number of shares of Trine's Class A common stock; it is not a number of shares with a particular fixed market


Table of Contents

value. See "The Business Combination—Terms of the Business Combination" beginning on page 180.176. The market value of Trine's Class A common stock and Desktop Metal capital stock at the effective time of the Business Combination may vary significantly from their respective values on the date the Merger Agreement was executed or at other dates, including the date on which Desktop Metal stockholders provide written consent to the adoption of the Merger Agreement and the transactions contemplated thereby. Because the merger consideration is fixed and will not be adjusted to reflect any changes in the market value of shares of Trine's Class A common stock or Desktop Metal capital stock, the market value of the shares of Trine's Class A common stock issued in connection with the Business Combination and the Desktop Metal capital stock converted in connection with the Business Combination may be higher or lower than the values of those shares on earlier dates, and may be higher or lower than the value used to determine the exchange ratio. Accordingly, at the time of providing written consent to the Desktop Metal Merger Proposal, Desktop Metal stockholders will not know or be able to calculate the market value of the shares of Trine's Class A common stock they would receive upon the completion of the Business Combination. Stock price changes may result from a variety of factors, including changes in the business, operations or prospects of Trine or Desktop Metal, regulatory considerations, and general business, market, industry or economic conditions. Many of these factors are outside of the control of Trine and Desktop Metal.

Desktop Metal's stockholders will have a reduced ownership and voting interest after the Business Combination and will exercise less influence over management.

        Desktop Metal's stockholders currently have the right to vote in the election of the Desktop Metal board of directors and on other matters requiring stockholder approval under Delaware law and Desktop Metal's charter and bylaws. Upon the completion of the Business Combination, Desktop Metal stockholders who become stockholders of the Post-Combination Company will have a percentage ownership of the Post-Combination Company that is smaller than such stockholders' percentage ownership of Desktop Metal. Additionally, one of the expected members of the Post-Combination Company's board of directors following the Business Combination will be Leo Hindery, Jr., a current director of Trine. Based on the number of issued and outstanding shares of Trine common stock, Desktop Metal preferred stock and Desktop Metal common stock and the number of outstanding stock options, warrants, restricted stock awards and restricted stock unit awards on                         ,of Desktop Metal, in each case as of August 26, 2020, and based on the merger consideration, stockholders of Desktop Metal, as a group, will receive shares in the Business Combination constituting up to approximately        % of the Post-Combination Company's common stock expected to be outstanding immediately after the Business Combination (without giving effect to any shares of Trine common stock held by Desktop Metal stockholders prior to the Business Combination). Because of this, current Desktop Metal stockholders, as a group, will have less influence on the board of directors, management and policies of the Post-Combination Company than they now have on the board of directors, management and policies of Desktop Metal.

Trine stockholders will have a reduced ownership and voting interest after the Business Combination and will exercise less influence over management.

        Upon the issuance of the shares to Desktop Metal stockholders, current Trine stockholders' percentage ownership will be diluted. Assuming no public stockholders exercise their redemption rights and excluding any shares issuable pursuant to Trine's outstanding warrants, current Trine stockholders' percentage ownership in the Post-Combination Company following the issuance of shares to Desktop Metal stockholders would be        %. Additionally, of the expected members of the Post-Combination Company's board of directors after the completion of the Business Combination, only one will be a current director of Trine and the rest will be current directors of Desktop Metal or appointed by current stockholders of Desktop Metal.elected pursuant to the Director Election Proposal. The percentage of the Post-Combination Company's common stock that will be owned by current Trine stockholders as a group will vary based on the number of Public Shares


Table of Contents

for which the holders thereof request redemption in connection with the Business


Table of Contents

Combination. To illustrate the potential ownership percentages of current Trine stockholders under different redemption levels, based on the number of issued and outstanding shares of Trine common stock and Desktop Metal capital stock on ,August 26, 2020, and based on the merger consideration, current Trine stockholders, as a group, will own (1) if there are no redemptions of Public Shares,        % of the Post-Combination Company's common stock expected to be outstanding immediately after the Business Combination or (2) if there are redemptions of 100% of the outstanding Public Shares,        % of the Post-Combination Company's common stock expected to be outstanding immediately after the Business Combination. Because of this, current Trine stockholders, as a group, will have less influence on the board of directors, management and policies of the Post-Combination Company than they now have on the board of directors, management and policies of Trine. See "Other AgreementsStockholders Agreement" beginning on page 229227 of this proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus.

The market price of shares of the Post-Combination Company's Class A common stock after the Business Combination may be affected by factors different from those currently affecting the prices of shares of Trine's Class A common stock.

        Upon completion of the Business Combination, holders of shares of Desktop Metal common stock and preferred stock will become holders of shares of the Post-Combination Company's Class A common stock. Prior to the Business Combination, Trine has had limited operations. Upon completion of the Business Combination, the Post-Combination Company's results of operations will depend upon the performance of Desktop Metal's businesses, which are affected by factors that are different from those currently affecting the results of operations of Trine.

Trine has not obtained an opinion from an independent investment banking firm, and consequently, there is no assurance from an independent source that the merger consideration is fair to its stockholders from a financial point of view.

        Trine is not required to, and has not, obtained an opinion from an independent investment banking firm that the merger consideration it is paying for Desktop Metal is fair to Trine's stockholders from a financial point of view. The fair market value of Desktop Metal has been determined by the Trine Board based upon standards generally accepted by the financial community, such as potential sales and the price for which comparable businesses or assets have been valued. Trine's stockholders will be relying on the judgment of its board of directors with respect to such matters.

If the Business Combination's benefits do not meet the expectations of financial analysts, the market price of our common stock may decline.

        The market price of our common stock may decline as a result of the Business Combination if the we do not achieve the perceived benefits of the Business Combination as rapidly, or to the extent anticipated by, financial analysts or the effect of the Business Combination on our financial results is not consistent with the expectations of financial analysts. Accordingly, holders of our common stock following the consummation of the Business Combination may experience a loss as a result of a decline in the market price of such common stock. In addition, a decline in the market price of our common stock following the consummation of the Business Combination could adversely affect our ability to issue additional securities and to obtain additional financing in the future.

Regulatory approvals may not be received, may take longer than expected or may impose conditions that are not presently anticipated or cannot be met.

        Before the transactions contemplated by the Merger Agreement can be completed, approval must be obtained under the HSR Act through the termination or expiration of the waiting period under the HSR Act. In deciding whether to terminate the HSR waiting period or allow it to expire, the relevant


Table of Contents

United States governmental authorities will consider a variety of factors, including the effect of the Business Combination on competition within the United States or any portion thereof. The terms and conditions of the approval that is granted may impose requirements, limitations or costs, or place restrictions on the conduct of the Post-Combination Company's business. The requirements, limitations or costs imposed by the relevant governmental authorities could delay the closing of the Business Combination or diminish the anticipated benefits of the Business Combination. Additionally, the completion of the Business Combination is conditioned on the absence of certain orders, injunctions, decrees or laws by any court or other governmental authority that would enjoin or prohibit the completion of the Business Combination. Trine and Desktop Metal believe that the Business Combination should not raise significant regulatory concerns and that Trine and Desktop Metal will be able to obtain all requisite regulatory approvals in a timely manner. However, Trine and Desktop Metal cannot be certain when or if regulatory approvals will be obtained or, if obtained, the conditions that may imposed. In addition, neither Trine nor Desktop Metal can provide assurance that any such conditions, terms, obligations or restrictions will not result in delay. See "Regulatory Approvals Required for the Business Combination" beginning on page 201.199.

The consummation of the Business Combination is subject to a number of conditions and if those conditions are not satisfied or waived, the Merger Agreement may be terminated in accordance with its terms and the Business Combination may not be completed.

        The Merger Agreement is subject to a number of conditions which must be fulfilled in order to complete the Business Combination. Those conditions include: approval of the Merger Agreement by Desktop Metal stockholders, approval of the proposals required to effect the Business Combination by Trine stockholders, as well as receipt of certain requisite regulatory approvals, absence of orders prohibiting completion of the Business Combination, effectiveness of the registration statement of which this proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus is a part, approval of the shares of Class A common stock to be issued to Desktop Metal stockholders for listing on the NYSE, the requirement that Trine have $200,000,000 in Available Cash, the accuracy of the representations and warranties by both parties (subject to the materiality standards set forth in the Merger Agreement) and the performance by both parties of their covenants and agreements. These conditions to the closing of the Business Combination may not be fulfilled in a timely manner or at all, and, accordingly, the Business Combination may not be completed. In addition, the parties can mutually decide to terminate the Merger Agreement at any time, before or after stockholder approval, or Trine or Desktop Metal may elect to terminate the Merger Agreement in certain other circumstances. See "The Merger Agreement—Termination" beginning on page 225.223.

Termination of the Merger Agreement could negatively impact Desktop Metal and Trine.

        If the Business Combination is not completed for any reason, including as a result of Desktop Metal stockholders declining to adopt the Merger Agreement or Trine stockholders declining to approve the proposals required to effect the Business Combination, the ongoing businesses of Desktop Metal and Trine may be adversely impacted and, without realizing any of the anticipated benefits of completing the Business Combination, Desktop Metal and Trine would be subject to a number of risks, including the following:

    Desktop Metal or Trine may experience negative reactions from the financial markets, including negative impacts on its stock price (including to the extent that the current market price reflects a market assumption that the Business Combination will be completed);

    Desktop Metal may experience negative reactions from its customers, resellers, vendors and employees;

Table of Contents

    Desktop Metal and Trine will have incurred substantial expenses and will be required to pay certain costs relating to the Business Combination, whether or not the Business Combination is completed; and

    since the Merger Agreement restricts the conduct of Desktop Metal's and Trine's businesses prior to completion of the Business Combination, each of Desktop Metal and Trine may not have been able to take certain actions during the pendency of the Business Combination that would have benefitted it as an independent company, and the opportunity to take such actions may no longer be available (see the section entitled "The Merger Agreement—Covenants and Agreements" beginning on page 206204 of this proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus for a description of the restrictive covenants applicable to Desktop Metal and Trine).

        If the Merger Agreement is terminated and Desktop Metal's board of directors seeks another merger or business combination, Desktop Metal stockholders cannot be certain that Desktop Metal will be able to find a party willing to offer equivalent or more attractive consideration than the consideration Trine has agreed to provide in the Business Combination or that such other merger or business combination is completed. If the Merger Agreement is terminated under certain specified circumstances, Desktop Metal will be required to pay a termination fee of $54,900,000 to Trine. If the Merger Agreement is terminated and the Trine Board seeks another merger or business combination, Trine stockholders cannot be certain that Trine will be able to find another acquisition target that would constitute a business combination that such other merger or business combination will be completed. See "The Merger Agreement—Termination" on page 225.223.

Desktop Metal will be subject to business uncertainties and contractual restrictions while the Business Combination is pending.

        Uncertainty about the effect of the Business Combination on employees and customers may have an adverse effect on Desktop Metal and consequently on Trine. These uncertainties may impair Desktop Metal's ability to attract, retain and motivate key personnel until the Business Combination is completed and could cause customers and others that deal with Desktop Metal to seek to change existing business relationships with Desktop Metal. Retention of certain employees may be challenging during the pendency of the Business Combination as certain employees may experience uncertainty about their future roles. If key employees depart because of issues relating to the uncertainty and difficulty of integration or a desire not to remain with the business, our business following the Business Combination could be negatively impacted. In addition, the Merger Agreement restricts Desktop Metal from making certain expenditures and taking other specified actions without the consent of Trine until the Business Combination occurs. These restrictions may prevent Desktop Metal from pursuing attractive business opportunities that may arise prior to the completion of the Business Combination. See "The Merger Agreement—Covenants and Agreements" beginning on page 206.204.

Desktop Metal directors and officers may have interests in the Business Combination different from the interests of Desktop Metal's stockholders.

        Executive officers of Desktop Metal negotiated the terms of the Merger Agreement with their counterparts at Trine, and the Desktop Metal board of directors determined that entering into the Merger Agreement was in the best interests of Desktop Metal and its stockholders, declared the Merger Agreement advisable and recommended that Desktop Metal stockholders adopt the Merger Agreement. In considering these facts and the other information contained in this proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus, you should be aware that Desktop Metal's executive officers and directors may have financial interests in the Business Combination that may be different from, or in addition to, the interests of Desktop Metal stockholders. The Desktop Metal board of directors was aware of and considered these interests, among other matters, in reaching the determination to unanimously approve the terms of the Business Combination and in recommending to Desktop Metal's


Table of Contents

stockholders that they vote to approve the Business Combination. For a detailed discussion of the special interests that Desktop Metal's directors and executive officers may have in the Business Combination, please see the section entitled "The Business Combination—Interests of Desktop Metal's Directors and Executive Officers in the Business Combination" beginning on page 199.197.

Trine directors and officers may have interests in the Business Combination different from the interests of Trine stockholders.

        Executive officers of Trine negotiated the terms of the Merger Agreement with their counterparts at Desktop Metal, and the Trine Board determined that entering into the Merger Agreement was in the best interests of Trine and its stockholders, declared the Merger Agreement advisable and recommended that Trine stockholders approve the proposals required to effect the Business Combination. In considering these facts and the other information contained in this proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus, you should be aware that Trine's executive officers and directors may have financial interests in the Business Combination that may be different from, or in addition to, the interests of Trine stockholders. The Trine Board and the audit committee thereof was aware of and considered these interests, among other matters, in reaching the determination to approve the terms of the Business Combination and in recommending to Trine's stockholders that they vote to approve the Business Combination. For a detailed discussion of the special interests that Trine's directors and executive officers may have in the Business Combination, please see the section entitled "The Business Combination—Interests of Trine's Directors and Executive Officers in the Business Combination" beginning on page 198.196.

The Business Combination will result in changes to the board of directors that may affect our strategy.

        If the parties complete the Business Combination and the Director Election Proposal is approved, the composition of the Post-Combination Company's board of directors will change from the current boards of directors of Trine and Desktop Metal. The board of directors of the Post-Combination Company will be divided into three classes and will consist of the directors elected pursuant to the Director Election Proposal, each of which will serve an initial term ending in either 2021, 2022 or 2023, and thereafter will serve a three-year term. This new composition of the Post-Combination Company board of directors may affect our business strategy and operating decisions upon the completion of the Business Combination.

The Merger Agreement contains provisions that may discourage other companies from trying to acquire Desktop Metal for greater merger consideration.

        The Merger Agreement contains provisions that may discourage a third party from submitting a business combination proposal to Desktop Metal that might result in greater value to Desktop Metal's stockholders than the Business Combination or may result in a potential competing acquirer proposing to pay a lower per share price to acquire Desktop Metal than it might otherwise have proposed to pay absent such provisions. These provisions include a general prohibition on Desktop Metal from soliciting or, subject to certain exceptions relating to the exercise of fiduciary duties by Desktop Metal's board of directors, entering into discussions with any third party regarding any acquisition proposal or offers for competing transactions. Desktop Metal also has an unqualified obligation to submit the proposal to adopt the Merger Agreement to a vote by its stockholders, even if Desktop Metal receives an alternative acquisition proposal that its board of directors believes is superior to the Business Combination, unless the Merger Agreement has been terminated in accordance with its terms. In addition, Desktop Metal will be required to pay Trine a termination fee of $54,900,000 upon termination of the Merger Agreement in certain specified circumstances involving acquisition proposals for competing transactions. See "The Merger Agreement—Termination" beginning on page 225.223.


Table of Contents

The Merger Agreement contains provisions that may discourage Trine from seeking an alternative business combination.

        The Merger Agreement contains provisions that prohibit Trine from seeking alternative business combinations during the pendency of the Business Combination. Further, if Trine is unable to obtain the requisite approval of its stockholders, either party may terminate the Merger Agreement.

The unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial information included in this proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus is preliminary and the actual financial condition and results of operations after the Business Combination may differ materially.

        The unaudited pro forma financial information included in this proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus is presented for illustrative purposes only and is not necessarily indicative of what our actual financial position or results of operations would have been had the Business Combination been completed on the date(s) indicated. The preparation of the pro forma financial information is based upon available information and certain assumptions and estimates that Trine and Desktop Metal currently believe are reasonable. The unaudited pro forma financial information reflects adjustments, which are based upon preliminary estimates, among other things, to allocate the purchase price to Desktop Metal's net assets. The purchase price allocation reflected in this proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus is preliminary, and the final allocation of the purchase price will be based upon the actual purchase price and the fair value of the assets and liabilities of Desktop Metal as of the date of the completion of the Business Combination. In addition, following the completion of the Business Combination, there may be further refinements of the purchase price allocation as additional information becomes available. Accordingly, the final purchase accounting adjustments may differ materially from the pro forma adjustments reflected in this proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus. See "Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Combined Financial Information" beginning on page 61.62.

Trine and Desktop Metal will incur transaction costs in connection with the Business Combination.

        Each of Trine and Desktop Metal has incurred and expects that it will incur significant, non-recurring costs in connection with consummating the Business Combination. Trine and Desktop Metal may also incur additional costs to retain key employees. Trine and Desktop Metal will also incur significant legal, financial advisor, accounting, banking and consulting fees, fees relating to regulatory filings and notices, SEC filing fees, printing and mailing fees and other costs associated with the Business Combination. Trine and Desktop Metal estimate that they will incur $60 million in aggregate transaction costs, inclusive of $10.5 million in deferred underwriting fees. Some of these costs are payable regardless of whether the Business Combination is completed. See "The Business Combination—Terms of the Business Combination" beginning on page 180.176.

Desktop Metal's stockholders will have their rights as stockholders governed by the Post-Combination Company's organizational documents.

        As a result of the completion of the Business Combination, holders of shares of Desktop Metal common stock and preferred stock may become holders of shares of the Post-Combination Company's Class A common stock, which will be governed by the Post-Combination Company's organizational documents. As a result, there will be differences between the rights currently enjoyed by Desktop Metal stockholders and the rights that Desktop Metal stockholders who become stockholders of the Post-Combination Company will have as stockholders of the Post-Combination Company. See "Comparison of Stockholders' Rights" beginning on page 238.236.


Table of Contents

The Initial Stockholders have agreed to vote in favor of each of the proposals presented at the Special Meeting, regardless of how public stockholders vote.

        As of the date hereof, the Founder Shares owned by the Initial Stockholders represent 20% of the voting power of the outstanding Trine common stock. Pursuant to the Sponsor Agreement, the Initial Stockholders have agreed to vote their Founder Shares and any Public Shares held by them in favor of each of the proposals presented at the Special Meeting, regardless of how public stockholders vote. Accordingly, the agreement by the Initial Stockholders to vote in favor of the each of the proposals presented at the Special Meeting will increase the likelihood that Trine will receive the requisite stockholder approval for the Business Combination and the transactions contemplated thereby. See "Other AgreementsSponsor Agreement" beginning on page 228226 of this proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus.

Risks Relating to Ownership of Our Class A Common Stock Following the Business Combination

Our Class A common stock price may be volatile or may decline regardless of our operating performance. You may lose some or all of your investment.

        The trading price of our Class A common stock following the Business Combination is likely to be volatile. The stock market recently has experienced extreme volatility. This volatility often has been unrelated or disproportionate to the operating performance of particular companies. You may not be able to resell your shares at an attractive price due to a number of factors such as those listed in "—Risks Related to Desktop Metal's Business and Industry" and the following:

    the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on our financial condition and the results of operations;

    our operating and financial performance and prospects;

    our quarterly or annual earnings or those of other companies in our industry compared to market expectations;

    conditions that impact demand for our products;

    future announcements concerning our business, our clients' businesses or our competitors' businesses;

    the public's reaction to our press releases, other public announcements and filings with the SEC;

    the market's reaction to our reduced disclosure and other requirements as a result of being an "emerging growth company" under the Jumpstart Our Business Startups Act (the "JOBS Act");

    the size of our public float;

    coverage by or changes in financial estimates by securities analysts or failure to meet their expectations;

    market and industry perception of our success, or lack thereof, in pursuing our growth strategy;

    strategic actions by us or our competitors, such as acquisitions or restructurings;

    changes in laws or regulations which adversely affect our industry or us;

    changes in accounting standards, policies, guidance, interpretations or principles;

    changes in senior management or key personnel;

    issuances, exchanges or sales, or expected issuances, exchanges or sales of our capital stock;

    changes in our dividend policy;

    adverse resolution of new or pending litigation against us; and

Table of Contents

    changes in general market, economic and political conditions in the United States and global economies or financial markets, including those resulting from natural disasters, terrorist attacks, acts of war and responses to such events.

        These broad market and industry factors may materially reduce the market price of our Class A common stock, regardless of our operating performance. In addition, price volatility may be greater if the public float and trading volume of our Class A common stock is low. As a result, you may suffer a loss on your investment.

        In the past, following periods of market volatility, stockholders have instituted securities class action litigation. If we were involved in securities litigation, it could have a substantial cost and divert resources and the attention of executive management from our business regardless of the outcome of such litigation.

We do not intend to pay dividends on our Class A common stock for the foreseeable future.

        We currently intend to retain all available funds and any future earnings to fund the development and growth of our business. As a result, we do not anticipate declaring or paying any cash dividends on our Class A common stock in the foreseeable future. Any decision to declare and pay dividends in the future will be made at the discretion of our board of directors and will depend on, among other things, our business prospects, results of operations, financial condition, cash requirements and availability, certain restrictions related to our indebtedness, industry trends and other factors that our board of directors may deem relevant. Any such decision will also be subject to compliance with contractual restrictions and covenants in the agreements governing our current and future indebtedness. In addition, we may incur additional indebtedness, the terms of which may further restrict or prevent us from paying dividends on our common stock. As a result, you may have to sell some or all of your Class A common stock after price appreciation in order to generate cash flow from your investment, which you may not be able to do. Our inability or decision not to pay dividends, particularly when others in our industry have elected to do so, could also adversely affect the market price of our Class A common stock.

If securities analysts do not publish research or reports about us, or if they issue unfavorable commentary about us or our industry or downgrade our Class A common stock, the price of our Class A common stock could decline.

        The trading market for our Class A common stock will depend in part on the research and reports that third-party securities analysts publish about us and the industries in which we operate. We may be unable or slow to attract research coverage and if one or more analysts cease coverage of us, the price and trading volume of our securities would likely be negatively impacted. If any of the analysts that may cover us change their recommendation regarding our securities adversely, or provide more favorable relative recommendations about our competitors, the price of our securities would likely decline. If any analyst that may cover us ceases covering us or fails to regularly publish reports on us, we could lose visibility in the financial markets, which could cause the price or trading volume of our securities to decline. Moreover, if one or more of the analysts who cover us downgrades our Class A common stock, or if our reporting results do not meet their expectations, the market price of our Class A common stock could decline.

Our issuance of additional shares of Class A common stock or convertible securities could make it difficult for another company to acquire us, may dilute your ownership of us and could adversely affect our stock price.

        In connection with the proposed Business Combination, we intend to file a registration statement with the SEC on Form S-8 providing for the registration of shares of our Class A common stock issued or reserved for issuance under the Incentive Plan. Subject to the satisfaction of vesting conditions and


Table of Contents

the expiration of lockup agreements, shares registered under the registration statement on Form S-8 will be available for resale immediately in the public market without restriction. From time to time in the future, we may also issue additional shares of our Class A common stock or securities convertible into Class A common stock pursuant to a variety of transactions, including acquisitions. The issuance by us of additional shares of our Class A common stock or securities convertible into our Class A common stock would dilute your ownership of us and the sale of a significant amount of such shares in the public market could adversely affect prevailing market prices of our Class A common stock.

        In the future, we expect to obtain financing or to further increase our capital resources by issuing additional shares of our capital stock or offering debt or other equity securities, including senior or subordinated notes, debt securities convertible into equity, or shares of preferred stock. Issuing additional shares of our capital stock, other equity securities, or securities convertible into equity may dilute the economic and voting rights of our existing stockholders, reduce the market price of our Class A common stock, or both. Debt securities convertible into equity could be subject to adjustments in the conversion ratio pursuant to which certain events may increase the number of equity securities issuable upon conversion. Preferred stock, if issued, could have a preference with respect to liquidating distributions or a preference with respect to dividend payments that could limit our ability to pay dividends to the holders of our common stock. Our decision to issue securities in any future offering will depend on market conditions and other factors beyond our control, which may adversely affect the amount, timing or nature of our future offerings. As a result, holders of our Class A common stock bear the risk that our future offerings may reduce the market price of our Class A common stock and dilute their percentage ownership. See "Description of Capital Stock of the Post-Combination Company."

Future sales, or the perception of future sales, of our common stock by us or our existing stockholders in the public market following the closing of the Business Combination could cause the market price for our common stock to decline.

        The sale of substantial amounts of shares of our Class A common stock in the public market, or the perception that such sales could occur, could harm the prevailing market price of shares of our common stock. These sales, or the possibility that these sales may occur, also might make it more difficult for us to sell equity securities in the future at a time and at a price that we deem appropriate.

        Upon consummation of the Business Combination, we will have a total of            shares of Class A common stock outstanding. All shares issued as merger consideration in the Business Combination will be freely tradable without registration under the Securities Act and without restriction by persons other than our "affiliates" (as defined under Rule 144 of the Securities Act, referred to herein as "Rule 144"), including our directors, executive officers and other affiliates.

        In connection with the Business Combination, pursuant to the Confidentiality and Lockup Agreement, certain Desktop Metal stockholders have agreed that they will not, during the period beginning at the effective time of the Business Combination and continuing to and including the date that is one hundred eighty (180) days after the date of effective time (the "Restricted Period"), directly or indirectly, offer, sell, contract to sell, pledge, grant any option to purchase, make any short sale or otherwise dispose of any shares of Class A common stock, or any options or warrants to purchase any shares of Class A common stock, or any securities convertible into, exchangeable for or that represent the right to receive shares of Class A common stock, or any interest in any of the foregoing (in each case, subject to certain exceptions set forth in the Confidentiality and Lockup Agreement). See "Other Agreements—Confidentiality and Lockup Agreement" for a description of the Confidentiality and Lockup Agreement.

        In addition, in connection with the execution of the Merger Agreement, Desktop Metal and certain preferred stockholders of Desktop Metal entered into that certain Amendment No. 1 (the "IRA Amendment") to the Fourth Amended and Restated Investors' Rights Agreement of Desktop Metal,


Table of Contents

dated as of January 14, 2019 (the "Investors' Rights Agreement"). Pursuant to the terms of the Investors' Rights Agreement, as amended by the IRA Amendment, the current preferred stockholders of Desktop Metal will be prohibited, for a period of 180 days after the closing date of the Business Combination, from lending, offering, pledging, selling, contracting to sell, selling any option or contracting to purchase, purchasing any option or contracting to sell, granting any option, right, or warrant to purchase, or otherwise transfering or disposing of, directly or indirectly, any shares of Class A common stock or any securities convertible into or exercisable or exchangeable (directly or indirectly) for Class A common stock held immediately following the effective time of the Business Combination, or entering into any swap or other arrangement that transfers to another, in whole or in party, any of the economic consequences of ownership of such securities. See "Other Agreements—Investors' Rights Agreement" for a description of the IRA Amendment and its effects.

        Upon the expiration or waiver of the lock-ups described above, shares held by certain of our stockholders will be eligible for resale, subject to, in the case of certain stockholders, volume, manner of sale and other limitations under Rule 144. In addition, pursuant to the Registration Rights Agreement, certain stockholders will have the right, subject to certain conditions, to require us to register the sale of their shares of our Class A common stock under the Securities Act. By exercising their registration rights and selling a large number of shares, these stockholders could cause the prevailing market price of our Class A common stock to decline. Following completion of the Business Combination, the shares covered by registration rights would represent approximately        % of our outstanding common stock. See "Other Agreements—Registration Rights Agreement" for a description of these registration rights.

        As restrictions on resale end or if these stockholders exercise their registration rights, the market price of shares of our Class A common stock could drop significantly if the holders of these shares sell them or are perceived by the market as intending to sell them. These factors could also make it more difficult for us to raise additional funds through future offerings of our shares of Class A common stock or other securities.

        In addition, the shares of our Class A common stock reserved for future issuance under the Incentive Plan will become eligible for sale in the public market once those shares are issued, subject to provisions relating to various vesting agreements, lock-up agreements and, in some cases, limitations on volume and manner of sale applicable to affiliates under Rule 144, as applicable. The number of shares to be reserved for future issuance under the Incentive Plan is expected to equal the sum of (i) 5% of the total outstanding shares of Class A common stock on a fully diluted basis immediately after the closing of the Business Combination, (ii) the number of shares available for future grants under our equity plans in effect prior to the Business Combination and (iii) any shares which are subject to awards under our equity plans in effect prior to the Business Combination that become available for grant under the share recycling provisions of the Incentive Plan. In addition, the Incentive Plan is expected to include an evergreen feature that will allow our board of directors, in its sole discretion, to reserve additional shares of Class A common stock for future issuance under the Incentive Plan each calendar year, beginning January 1, 2021 and ending on and including January 1, 2030, equal to the lesser of 5% of the shares of Class A common stock outstanding on the final day of the immediately preceding calendar year and a smaller number of shares determined by the board of directors. We expect to file one or more registration statements on Form S-8 under the Securities Act to register shares of our Class A common stock or securities convertible into or exchangeable for shares of our Class A common stock issued pursuant to our equity incentive plans. Any such Form S-8 registration statements will automatically become effective upon filing. Accordingly, shares registered under such registration statements will be available for sale in the open market. The initial registration statement on Form S-8 is expected to cover             shares of our Class A common stock.


Table of Contents

The obligations associated with being a public company will involve significant expenses and will require significant resources and management attention, which may divert from our business operations.

        As a result of the Business Combination, we will become subject to the reporting requirements of the Exchange Act and the Sarbanes-Oxley Act. The Exchange Act requires that we file annual, quarterly and current reports with respect to our business and financial condition. The Sarbanes-Oxley Act requires, among other things, that we establish and maintain effective internal control over financial reporting. As a result, we will incur significant legal, accounting and other expenses that we did not previously incur. Our entire management team and many of our other employees will need to devote substantial time to compliance and may not effectively or efficiently manage our transition into a public company.

        In addition, the need to establish the corporate infrastructure demanded of a public company may also divert management's attention from implementing our business strategy, which could prevent us from improving our business, results of operations and financial condition. We have made, and will continue to make, changes to our internal control over financial reporting, including IT controls, and procedures for financial reporting and accounting systems to meet our reporting obligations as a public company. However, the measures we take may not be sufficient to satisfy our obligations as a public company. If we do not continue to develop and implement the right processes and tools to manage our changing enterprise and maintain our culture, our ability to compete successfully and achieve our business objectives could be impaired, which could negatively impact our business, financial condition and results of operations. In addition, we cannot predict or estimate the amount of additional costs we may incur to comply with these requirements. We anticipate that these costs will materially increase our general and administrative expenses.

        These rules and regulations result in our incurring legal and financial compliance costs and will make some activities more time-consuming and costly. For example, we expect these rules and regulations to make it more difficult and more expensive for us to obtain director and officer liability insurance, and we may be required to accept reduced policy limits and coverage or incur substantially higher costs to obtain the same or similar coverage. As a result, it may be more difficult for us to attract and retain qualified people to serve on our board of directors, our board committees or as executive officers.

As a public reporting company, we will be subject to rules and regulations established from time to time by the SEC regarding our internal control over financial reporting. If we fail to establish and maintain effective internal control over financial reporting and disclosure controls and procedures, we may not be able to accurately report our financial results or report them in a timely manner.

        Upon consummation of the Business Combination, we will become a public reporting company subject to the rules and regulations established from time to time by the SEC and the NYSE. These rules and regulations will require, among other things that we establish and periodically evaluate procedures with respect to our internal control over financial reporting. Reporting obligations as a public company are likely to place a considerable strain on our financial and management systems, processes and controls, as well as on our personnel.

        In addition, as a public company, we will be required to document and test our internal control over financial reporting pursuant to Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act so that our management can certify as to the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting. For additional information related to the risks and uncertainties of our compliance with the Sarbanes-Oxley Act, see "Risk FactorsOur internal controls over financial reporting currently do not meet all of the standards contemplated by Section 404 of Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (the "Sarbanes-Oxley Act"), and failure to achieve and maintain effective internal controls over financial reporting in accordance with Section 404 of


Table of Contents

the Sarbanes-Oxley Act could impair our ability to produce timely and accurate financial statements or comply with applicable regulations and have a material adverse effect on our business."

Anti-takeover provisions in our governing documents and under Delaware law could make an acquisition of us more difficult, limit attempts by our stockholders to replace or remove our current management and limit the market price of our common stock.

        The Proposed Charter, the Post-Combination Company's bylaws and Delaware law contain or will contain provisions that could have the effect of rendering more difficult, delaying, or preventing an acquisition deemed undesirable by our board of directors. Among other things, the Proposed Charter and/or the Post-Combination Company's bylaws will include the following provisions:

    a staggered board, which means that our board of directors is classified into three classes of directors with staggered three-year terms and directors are only able to be removed from office for cause;

    limitations on convening special stockholder meetings, which could make it difficult for our stockholders to adopt desired governance changes;

    a prohibition on stockholder action by written consent, which means that our stockholders will only be able to take action at a meeting of stockholders and will not be able to take action by written consent for any matter;

    a forum selection clause, which means certain litigation against us can only be brought in Delaware;

    the authorization of undesignated preferred stock, the terms of which may be established and shares of which may be issued without further action by our stockholders; and

    advance notice procedures, which apply for stockholders to nominate candidates for election as directors or to bring matters before an annual meeting of stockholders.

        These provisions, alone or together, could delay or prevent hostile takeovers and changes in control or changes in our management. As a Delaware corporation, we are also subject to provisions of Delaware law, including Section 203 of the DGCL, which prevents interested stockholders, such as certain stockholders holding more than 15% of our outstanding common stock, from engaging in certain business combinations unless (i) prior to the time such stockholder became an interested stockholder, the board of directors approved the transaction that resulted in such stockholder becoming an interested stockholder, (ii) upon consummation of the transaction that resulted in such stockholder becoming an interested stockholder, the interested stockholder owned at least 85% of the common stock, or (iii) following board approval, such business combination receives the approval of the holders of at least two-thirds of our outstanding common stock not held by such interested stockholder at an annual or special meeting of stockholders.

        Any provision of the Proposed Charter, the Post-Combination Company's bylaws or Delaware law that has the effect of delaying, preventing or deterring a change in control could limit the opportunity for our stockholders to receive a premium for their shares of our common stock and could also affect the price that some investors are willing to pay for our common stock.

The Proposed Charter and the Post-Combination Company's bylaws will provide that the Court of Chancery of the State of Delaware will be the sole and exclusive forum for substantially all disputes between us and our stockholders, which could limit our stockholders' ability to obtain a favorable judicial forum for disputes with us or our directors, officers, or employees.

        The Proposed Charter and the Post-Combination Company's bylaws, each of which will become effective prior to the completion of the Business Combination, will provide that, unless we consent to the selection of an alternative forum, the Court ofin


Table of Contents

writing to the selection of an alternative forum, the (a) Court of Chancery (the "Chancery Court") of the State of Delaware is(or, in the event that the Chancery Court does not have jurisdiction, the federal district court for the District of Delaware or other state courts of the State of Delaware) shall, to the fullest extent permitted by law, be the sole and exclusive forum for: (i) any derivative action, suit or proceeding brought on our behalf; (ii) any action, suit or proceeding asserting a claim of breach of fiduciary duty owed by any of our directors, officers, or other employees or stockholders to us or to our stockholders; (iii) any action, suit or proceeding asserting a claim arising pursuant to the DGCL, the Proposed Charter or the Post-Combination Company's bylaws or as to which the DGCL confers exclusive jurisdiction on the Court of Chancery of the State of Delaware;bylaws; or (iv) any action, suit or proceeding asserting a claim governed by the internal affairs doctrine; provided, thatand (b) subject to the foregoing, the federal district courts of the United States of America shall be the exclusive forum for the resolution of any complaint asserting a cause of action arising under the Securities Act. Notwithstanding the foregoing, such forum selection provisions willshall not apply to suits brought to enforce any liability or duty created by the Securities Act or the Exchange Act or to any other claim for which the federal courts of the United States have exclusive jurisdiction. The choice of forum provision may limit a stockholder's ability to bring a claim in a judicial forum that it finds favorable for disputes with us or our directors, officers, or other employees, which may discourage such lawsuits against us and our directors, officers, and other employees. Alternatively, if a court were to find the choice of forum provision contained in the Proposed Charter to be inapplicable or unenforceable in an action, we may incur additional costs associated with resolving such action in other jurisdictions, which could harm our business, results of operations, and financial condition.

        Additionally, Section 22 of the Securities Act creates concurrent jurisdiction for federal and state courts over all suits brought to enforce any duty or liability created by the Securities Act or the rules and regulations thereunder. As noted above, the Proposed Charter and the Post-Combination Company's bylaws will provide that the federal district courts of the United States of America shall have jurisdiction over any action arising under the Securities Act. Accordingly, there is uncertainty as to whether a court would enforce such provision. Our stockholders will not be deemed to have waived our compliance with the federal securities laws and the rules and regulations thereunder.

Risks Relating to Redemption

There is no guarantee that a Trine public stockholder's decision whether to redeem their Public Shares for a pro rata portion of the trust account will put such stockholder in a better future economic position.

        No assurance can be given as to the price at which a public stockholder may be able to sell the shares of our Class A common stock in the future following the completion of the Business Combination. Certain events following the consummation of any business combination, including the Business Combination, may cause an increase in our stock price, and may result in a lower value realized now than a Trine stockholder might realize in the future had the stockholder not elected to redeem such stockholder's Public Shares. Similarly, if a Trine public stockholder does not redeem his, her or its shares, such stockholder will bear the risk of ownership of our Class A common stock after the consummation of the Business Combination, and there can be no assurance that a stockholder can sell his, her or its shares of our Class A common stock in the future for a greater amount than the redemption price set forth in this proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus. A Trine public stockholder should consult his, her or its own tax and/or financial advisor for assistance on how this may affect its individual situation.

If Trine public stockholders fail to comply with the redemption requirements specified in this proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus, they will not be entitled to redeem their Public Shares for a pro rata portion of the funds held in the trust account.

        To exercise their redemption rights, holders are required to deliver their stock, either physically or electronically using Depository Trust Company's DWAC System, to Trine's transfer agent two business


Table of Contents

days prior to the vote at the Special Meeting. If a holder properly seeks redemption as described in this proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus and the Business Combination with Desktop Metal is consummated, Trine will redeem these shares for a pro rata portion of funds deposited in the trust account and the holder will no longer own such shares following the Business Combination. See the section entitled "Trine's Special Meeting of StockholdersRedemption Rights" for additional information on how to exercise your redemption rights.

The ability of Trine stockholders to exercise redemption rights with respect to a large number of shares could increase the probability that the Business Combination would be unsuccessful and that stockholders would have to wait for liquidation in order to redeem their stock.

        At the time Trine entered into the Merger Agreement and related agreements for the Business Combination, Trine did not know how many stockholders would exercise their redemption rights, and


Table of Contents

therefore Trine structured the Business Combination based on its expectations as to the number of shares that will be submitted for redemption. The Merger Agreement requires Trine to have at least $200,000,000 of Available Cash. If a larger number of shares are submitted for redemption than initially expected, we may need to restructure the transaction to reserve a greater portion of the cash in the trust account. The above considerations may limit our ability to complete the Business Combination or optimize our capital structure.

If you or a "group" of stockholders of which you are a part are deemed to hold an aggregate of more than 15% of the Public Shares, you (or, if a member of such a group, all of the members of such group in the aggregate) will lose the ability to redeem all such shares in excess of 15% of the Public Shares.

        A public stockholder, together with any of his, her or its affiliates or any other person with whom it is acting in concert or as a "group" (as defined in Section 13(d)(3) of the Exchange Act), will be restricted from redeeming in the aggregate his, her or its Public Shares or, if part of such a group, the group's Public Shares, in excess of 15% of the Public Shares without the consent of Trine. Your inability to redeem any such excess Public Shares could resulting in you suffering a material loss on your investment in Trine if you sell such excess Public Shares in open market transactions. Trine cannot assure you that the value of such excess Public Shares will appreciate over time following the Business Combination or that the market price of the Public Shares will exceed the per-share redemption price.

        However, Trine's stockholders' ability to vote all of their Public Shares (including such excess shares) for or against the Business Combination Proposal is not restricted by this limitation on redemption.


Table of Contents


UNAUDITED PRO FORMA CONDENSED COMBINED FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Introduction

        The following unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial statements of Trine present the combination of the financial information of Trine and Desktop Metal, adjusted to give effect to the Business Combination and consummation of the transactions contemplated by the Subscription Agreements (collectively, the "Transactions"). The following unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial information has been prepared in accordance with Article 11 of Regulation S-X.

        Trine is a blank check company incorporated in Delaware on September 26, 2018. Trine was formed for the purpose of effecting a merger, capital stock exchange, asset acquisition, stock purchase, recapitalization, reorganization or similar business combination with one or more businesses. At June 30, 2020, there was $305.4 million held in the trust account.

        Desktop Metal, Inc was incorporated in the state of Delaware on August 25, 2015. Desktop Metal is pioneering a new generation of additive manufacturing technologies focused on the production of end-use parts. It offers a portfolio of integrated additive manufacturing solutions for engineers, designers, and manufacturers comprised of hardware, software, materials and services. Desktop Metal is headquartered in Burlington, Massachusetts.

        The following unaudited pro forma condensed combined balance sheet as of June 30, 2020 assumes that the Transactions occurred on June 30, 2020. The unaudited pro forma condensed combined statement of operations for the year ended December 31, 2019 and for the six months ended June 30, 2020 present pro forma effect to the Transactions as if they had been completed on January 1, 2019.

        The unaudited pro forma combined financial statements do not necessarily reflect what Trine's financial condition or results of operations would have been had the Transactions occurred on the dates indicated. The unaudited pro forma combined financial information also may not be useful in predicting the future financial condition and results of operations of Trine. The actual financial position and results of operations may differ significantly from the pro forma amounts reflected herein due to a variety of factors.

        This information should be read together with Trine's and Desktop Metal's audited and unaudited financial statements and related notes, the sections titled "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations of Trine," and "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations of Desktop Metal" and other financial information included elsewhere in this proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus.

        Under both the no redemption and maximum redemption scenarios, the Business Combination will be accounted for as a reverse recapitalization, with no goodwill or other intangible assets recorded, in accordance with GAAP. Desktop Metal has been determined to be the accounting acquirer based on evaluation of the following facts and circumstances:

    Desktop Metal's stockholders will have majority of the voting power under both the no redemption and maximum redemption scenarios;

    Desktop Metal will appoint a majority of the board of directors of the Post-Combination Company;

    Desktop Metal's existing management will comprise the management of the Post-Combination Company;

    Desktop Metal will comprise the ongoing operations of the Post-Combination Company;

    Desktop Metal is the larger entity based on historical revenues and business operations; and

Table of Contents

    The Post-Combination Company will assume Desktop Metal's name.

        Under this method of accounting, Trine will be treated as the "acquired" company for financial reporting purposes. Accordingly, for accounting purposes, the Business Combination will be treated as the equivalent of Desktop Metal issuing stock for the net assets of Trine, accompanied by a recapitalization. The net assets of Trine will be stated at historical cost, with no goodwill or other intangible assets recorded.

        The unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial information has been prepared using the assumptions below:

    Assuming No Redemptions:  This presentation assumes that no Trine stockholders exercise redemption rights with respect to their Public Shares.

    Assuming Maximum Redemptions:  This presentation assumes that all Trine stockholders holding approximately 30.0 million Public Shares will exercise their redemption rights for the $305.4 million of funds in Trine's trust account. The Merger Agreement includes as a condition to closing the Business Combination that, at the closing of the Business Combination, Trine will have a minimum of $200.0 million of Available Cash less total estimated transaction costs. Furthermore, Trine will only proceed with the Business Combination if it will have net tangible assets of at least $5,000,001 upon consummation of the Business Combination.

Description of the Transactions

        On August 26, 2020, Trine entered into the Merger Agreement. Pursuant to the terms of the Merger Agreement, a business combination between Trine and Desktop Metal will be effected through the merger of Merger Sub with and into Desktop Metal, with Desktop Metal surviving the merger as a wholly owned subsidiary of Trine. At the effective time of the Business Combination, each share of Desktop Metal preferred stock, par value $0.0001 per share ("Desktop Metal preferred stock"), and each share of Desktop Metal common stock, par value $0.0001 per share ("Desktop Metal common stock"), will be converted into the right to receive a number of shares of Trine's Class A common stock, par value $0.0001 per share. The purchase price for the Desktop Metal common stock and preferred stock is the consideration cap of $1.8 billion. The consideration payable to Desktop Metal stockholders will consist of 183.0 million shares of Trine Class A common stock at $10 per share (or $1.8 billion).

        In connection with the execution of the Merger Agreement, Trine entered into the Subscription Agreements. Pursuant to the Subscription Agreements, the Subscribers have agreed to purchase, and Trine has agreed to sell to the Subscribers, an aggregate of 27,497,500 shares of Class A common stock for a purchase price of $10.00 per share and at an aggregate purchase price of $274,975,000 (collectively, the "PIPE"). The obligations to consummate the transactions contemplated by the Subscription Agreements are conditioned upon, among other things, customary closing conditions and the consummation of the transactions contemplated by the Merger Agreement.

        The following represents the aggregate merger consideration under the no redemption and maximum redemption scenarios:

 
 Minimum and
Maximum Redemption
 
(in thousands)
 Purchase price Shares Issued 

Share Consideration to Desktop Metal(a)(b)

 $1,830,000  183,000 

(a)
The value of common stock issued to Desktop Metal included in the consideration is reflected at $10 per share as defined in the Merger Agreement.

Table of Contents

(b)
The total 183.0 million consideration shares include 161.2 million shares to be issued for all issued and outstanding Desktop Metal common and preferred stock plus 21.8 million shares underlying unvested, unissued, and/or unexercised restricted stock and options.

        The following summarizes the unaudited pro forma common stock shares outstanding under the under the no redemption and maximum redemption scenarios:

Ownership

 
 Assuming
No Redemption
 Assuming
Maximum Redemption
 
in thousands
 Shares % Shares % 

Trine Public Stockholders

  30,015  13.4%   0.0%

Trine Founders(A)

  5,553  2.5% 5,553  2.9%

Trine Independent Directors

  100  0.0% 100  0.1%

Total Trine

  35,668  15.9% 5,653  3.0%

Desktop Metal(B)

  161,208  71.8% 161,208  82.9%

PIPE Shares

  27,498  12.3% 27,498  14.1%

Total Shares at Closing (excluding unvested Desktop Metal and earn out shares)

  224,374  100% 194,359  100%

Desktop Metal—Remaining Consideration Shares(B)

  21,792     21,792    

Other—Earn Out Shares(A)

  1,851     1,851    

Total Shares at Closing (including unvested Desktop Metal and earn out shares)

  248,017     218,002    

(A)
Excludes 1,851 shares to be placed into escrow at the closing date. Pursuant to the Sponsor Agreement, 75% of the Founder Shares shall vest at the closing of the Business Combination. 25% of the Founder Shares shall vest if the combined company trades at $12.50 per share or higher for any 20 trading days within a 30 day window by the fifth anniversary of the Business Combination. In the event Trine enters into a binding agreement on or before the fifth anniversary of the closing of the Business Combination related to certain sale transactions involving the shares of common stock or all or substantially all the assets of Trine (a "Trine Sale"), all unvested Founder Shares shall vest on the day prior to the closing of such Trine Sale if the per share price implied in such Trine Sale meets or exceeds $12.50.

(B)
Total consideration to be issued to Desktop Metal is $1.8 billion or 183.0 million shares ($10 per share price). The total shares to be issued includes Desktop Metal common and preferred stock plus shares underlying unvested restricted stock and options. Accordingly, the consideration shares outstanding at the closing of the Business Combination has been adjusted to exclude the portion of consideration shares that will be unvested, unissued, and/or unexercised at the closing of the Business Combination.

        The following unaudited pro forma condensed combined balance sheet as of June 30, 2020, the unaudited pro forma condensed combined statement of operations for the year ended December 31, 2019, and the unaudited pro forma condensed combined statement of operations for the six months ended June 30, 2020 are based on the historical financial statements of Trine and Desktop Metal. The unaudited pro forma adjustments are based on information currently available, assumptions, and estimates underlying the pro forma adjustments and are described in the accompanying notes. Actual results may differ materially from the assumptions used to present the accompanying unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial information.


Table of Contents


UNAUDITED PRO FORMA CONDENSED COMBINED BALANCE SHEET
AS OF JUNE 30, 2020
(in thousands)thousands, assuming no redemptions)


  
  
  
  
  
  
 As of
June 30, 2020
 

  
  
  
  
 As of
June 30, 2020
  
 

  
  
  
  
 Additional
Pro Forma
Adjustments
(Assuming
Maximum
Redemptions)
As of
June 30, 2020

 As of June 30, 2020  
 Pro Forma
Combined
(Assuming
Maximum
Redemptions)

 Pro Forma
Adjustments
(Assuming No
Redemptions)
 Pro Forma
Combined
(Assuming No
Redemptions)
 As of June 30, 2020  
 As of June 30, 2020 

 Trine
(Historical)
(US GAAP)
 Desktop Metal
(Historical)
(US GAAP)
 CombinedPro Forma
Combined
(Assuming
Maximum
Redemptions)
 Trine
(Historical)
(US GAAP)
 Desktop Metal
(Historical)
(US GAAP)
 Merger Related
Pro Forma
Adjustments
 Pro Forma
Combined
(Assuming No
Redemptions)
 

ASSETS

                       

Cash and cash equivalents

 $61 $74,647 $74,708 $305,382  (A)$594,124 $(305,382)(N)$288,742 $61 $74,647 $305,382  (A)$595,307 

       (10,505)(B)       

       (41,246)(B)            (10,505)(B)   

       274,975  (C)            (41,246)(B)   

       (8,249)(B)(C)            274,975  (C)   

       513  (D)            (8,249)(B)(C)   

       (1,183)(D)            513  (D)   

       (131)(E)            (131)(E)   

       (140)(M)            (140)(M)   

Short-term investments

  34,134 34,134   34,134   34,134   34,134   34,134 

Accounts receivable, net

  2,676 2,676   2,676   2,676   2,676   2,676 

Inventory

  9,783 9,783   9,783   9,783   9,783   9,783 

Prepaid expenses and other current assets

 145 855 1,000 191  (F) 1,191   1,191  145 855 191  (F) 1,191 

Prepaid income taxes

 191  191 (191)(F)      191  (191)(F)  

Total current assets

 397 122,095 122,492 519,416 641,908 (305,382) 336,526  397 122,095 520,599 643,091 

Restricted cash

  612 612   612   612   612   612 

Property and equipment—net

  16,145 16,145   16,145   16,145   16,145   16,145 

Capitalized software

  402 402   402   402   402   402 

Right-Of-use assets

  2,056 2,056   2,056   2,056   2,056   2,056 

Security deposit

 24  24   24   24  24    24 

Goodwill

  2,252 2,252   2,252   2,252   2,252   2,252 

Acquired technology, net

  2,613 2,613   2,613   2,613   2,613   2,613 

Marketable securities held in Trust Account

 305,382  305,382 (305,382)(A)      305,382  (305,382)(A)  

Total assets

 $305,803 $146,175 $451,978 $214,034 $666,012 $(305,382)$360,630  $305,803 $146,175 $215,217 $667,195 

LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY

                        

Accounts payable

  9,050 9,050 4  (F) 9,054   9,054   9,050 4  (F) 9,054 

Accounts payable and accrued expenses

 288  288 (288)(F)      288  (288)(F)  

Customer deposits

  2,268 2,268   2,268   2,268   2,268   2,268 

Convertible promissory note—related party

 670  670 513  (D)      670  513  (D)  

       (1,183)(D)            (1,183)(D)   

Current portion of operating lease liability

  848 848   848   848   848   848 

Accrued expenses and other current liabilities

  3,978 3,978 284  (F) 4,086   4,086   3,978 284  (F) 4,086 

       (176)(G)            (176)(G)   

Deferred revenue

  1,474 1,474   1,474   1,474   1,474   1,474 

Current portion of long -term debt, net of deferred financing costs

  9,981 9,981   9,981   9,981   9,981   9,981 

Total current liabilities

 958 27,599 28,557 (846) 27,711  27,711  958 27,599 (846) 27,711 

Lease liability, net of current portion

  2,588 2,588   2,588   2,588   2,588   2,588 

Deferred underwriting fee payable

 10,505  10,505 (10,505)(B)      10,505  (10,505)(B)  

Total liabilities

 11,463 30,187 41,650 (11,351) 30,299  30,299  11,463 30,187 (11,351) 30,299 

Commitments and Contingences

                        

Common stock subject to possible redemption

 289,340  289,340 (289,340)(H)      289,340  (289,340)(H)  

Convertible Preferred Stock

  436,533 436,533 (436,533)(I)       436,533 (436,533)(I)  

              

Stockholders' Equity

                        

Common Stock

  3 3 (3)(I)       3 (3)(I)  

Class A Common Stock

    3  (H) 22 (3)(N) 19    3  (H) 22 

       16  (I)            16  (I)   

       3  (C)            3  (C)   

       1  (J)            1  (J)   

       (1)(J)            (1)(J)   

Class B Common Stock

 1  1 (1)(J)      1  (1)(J)  

Additional paid in capital

 2,254 19,236 21,490 289,337  (H) 1,018,388 (305,379)(N) 713,009  2,254 19,236 289,337  (H) 1,019,571 

       (8,249)(B)(C)            (8,249)(B)(C)   

       274,972  (C)            274,972  (C)   

       (413)(B)(D)            (413)(B)(D)   

       436,520  (I)            436,520  (I)   

       2,745  (K)            2,745  (K)   

     1  (J)   

     1,985  (L)   

     1,183  (D)   

Retained earnings (deficit)

 2,745 (339,832) (40,833)(B) (382,745)

     176  (G)   

     (131)(E)   

     (2,745)(K)   

     (1,985)(L)   

     (140)(M)   

Accumulated other comprehensive gain

  48   48 

Total Stockholders' Equity

 5,000 (320,545) 952,441 636,896 

Total Liabilities, Convertible Preferred Stock and Stockholders' Equity

 $305,803 $146,175 $215,217 $667,195 

Table of Contents


UNAUDITED PRO FORMA CONDENSED COMBINED BALANCE SHEET
AS OF JUNE 30, 2020
(in thousands, assuming maximum redemptions)


 As of June 30, 2020  
 As of June 30, 2020 

 Trine
(Historical)
(US GAAP)
 Trine
Pro Forma
Adjustments
 Trine
As
Adjusted
 Desktop Metal
(Historical)
(US GAAP)
 Merger Related
Pro Forma
Adjustments
 Pro Forma
Combined
(Assuming Maximum
Redemptions)
 

ASSETS

             

Cash and cash equivalents

 $61 $305,382  (A)$61 $74,647 (10,505)(B)$289,925 

   (305,382)(N)     (41,246)(B)   

         274,975  (C)   

         (8,249)(B)(C)   

         513  (D)   

         (131)(E)   

         (140)(M)   

Short-term investments

     34,134   34,134 

Accounts receivable, net

     2,676   2,676 

Inventory

     9,783   9,783 

Prepaid expenses and other current assets

 145   145 855 191  (F) 1,191 

Prepaid income taxes

 191   191  (191)(F)  

Total current assets

 397  397 122,095 215,217 337,709 

Restricted cash

     612   612 

Property and equipment—net

     16,145   16,145 

Capitalized software

     402   402 

Right-Of-use assets

     2,056   2,056 

Security deposit

 24   24    24 

Goodwill

     2,252   2,252 

Acquired technology, net

     2,613   2,613 

Marketable securities held in Trust Account

 305,382 (305,382)(A)      

Total assets

 $305,803 $(305,382)$421 $146,175 $215,217 $361,813 

LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY

             

Accounts payable

     9,050 4  (F) 9,054 

Accounts payable and accrued expenses

 288   288  (288)(F)  

Customer deposits

     2,268   2,268 

Convertible promissory note—related party

 670   670  513  (D)  

        (1,183)(D)   

Current portion of operating lease liability

     848   848 

Accrued expenses and other current liabilities

     3,978 284  (F) 4,086 

         (176)(G)   

Deferred revenue

     1,474   1,474 

Current portion of long -term debt, net of deferred financing costs

     9,981   9,981 

Total current liabilities

 958  958 27,599 (846) 27,711 

Lease liability, net of current portion

      2,588   2,588 

Deferred underwriting fee payable

 10,505   10,505  (10,505)(B)  

Total liabilities

 11,463  11,463 30,187 (11,351) 30,299 

Commitments and Contingences

             

Common stock subject to possible redemption

 289,340   289,340  (289,340)(H)  

Convertible Preferred Stock

     436,533 (436,533)(I)  

Stockholders' Equity

             

Common Stock

     3 (3)(I)  

Class A Common Stock

  (3)(N) (3)  3  (H) 19 

         16  (I)   

         3  (C)   

         1  (J)   

         (1)(J)   

Class B Common Stock

 1   1  (1)(J)  

Additional paid in capital

 2,254 (305,379)(N) (303,125) 19,236 289,337  (H) 714,192 

  
  
  
  
  
  
 As of
June 30, 2020
          (8,249)(B)(C)   

  
  
  
  
 As of
June 30, 2020
  
          274,972  (C)   

  
  
  
  
 Additional
Pro Forma
Adjustments
(Assuming
Maximum
Redemptions)
As of
June 30, 2020
         (413)(B)(D)   

 As of June 30, 2020  
 Pro Forma
Combined
(Assuming
Maximum
Redemptions)
         436,520  (I)   

 Pro Forma
Adjustments
(Assuming No
Redemptions)
 Pro Forma
Combined
(Assuming No
Redemptions)
         2,745  (K)   

 Trine
(Historical)
(US GAAP)
 Desktop Metal
(Historical)
(US GAAP)
 CombinedPro Forma
Combined
(Assuming
Maximum
Redemptions)
         1  (J)   

       1  (J)               1,985  (L)   

       1,985  (L)               1,183  (D)   

Retained earnings (deficit)

 2,745 (339,832) (337,087) (40,833)(B) (382,745)   (382,745) 2,745   2,745 (339,832) (40,833)(B) (382,745)

       176  (G)                176  (G)   

       (131)(E)                (131)(E)   

       (2,745)(K)                (2,745)(K)   

       (1,985)(L)                (1,985)(L)   

       (140)(M)                (140)(M)   

Accumulated other comprehensive gain

  48 48   48   48      48   48 

Total Stockholders' Equity

 5,000 (320,545) (315,545) 951,258 635,713 (305,382) 330,331  5,000 (305,382) (300,382) (320,545) 952,441 331,514 

Total Liabilities, Convertible Preferred Stock and Stockholders' Equity

 $305,803 $146,175 $451,978 $214,034 $666,012 $(305,382)$360,630  $305,803 $(305,382)$421 $146,175 $215,217 $361,813 

Table of Contents


UNAUDITED PRO FORMA CONDENSED COMBINED STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS
FOR THE SIX MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 2020
(in thousands, except share and per share data)


  
  
  
  
  
  
 For the
Six Months
Ended
June 30, 2020
 

  
  
  
  
 For the
Six Months
Ended
June 30, 2020
  
 

 For the
Six Months Ended June 30, 2020
  
 Additional
Pro Forma
Adjustments
(Assuming
Maximum
Redemptions)
For the
Six Months
Ended
June 30, 2020

  
  For the
Six Months
Ended
June 30, 2020
  
  
 Assuming No Redemptions
and Maximum Redemptions
 

 Pro Forma
Adjustments
(Assuming No
Redemptions)
 Pro Forma
Combined
(Assuming
Maximum
Redemptions)
  For the Six Months Ended
June 30, 2020
  
 For the Six
Months Ended
June 30, 2020
 

 Trine
(Historical)
(US GAAP)
 Desktop Metal
(Historical)
(US GAAP)
 CombinedAdditional
Pro Forma
Adjustments
(Assuming
Maximum
Redemptions)
 Trine
(Historical)
(US GAAP)
 Desktop Metal
(Historical)
(US GAAP)
 Pro Forma
Adjustments
 Pro Forma
Combined
 

Revenue

 $ $5,574 $5,574    $5,574 $ $5,574   $5,574 

Cost of sales

  16,682 16,682   16,682   16,682  16,682   16,682 

Gross Margin

  (11,108) (11,108)  (11,108)  (11,108)  (11,108)  (11,108)

Operating costs

 1,008  1,008 (210)(AA) 798   798  1,008  (210)(AA) 798 

Research and development

  22,167 22,167   22,167   22,167   22,167   22,167 

Sales and marketing

  7,452 7,452   7,452   7,452   7,452   7,452 

General and administration

  5,589 5,589   5,589   5,589   5,589   5,589 

Total operating expenses

 1,008 35,208 36,216 (210) 36,006  36,006  1,008 35,208 (210) 36,006 

Loss from operations

 (1,008) (46,316) (47,324) 210 (47,114)  (47,114) (1,008) (46,316) 210 (47,114)

Interest (expense)

  (155) (155)   (155)   (155)  (155)   (155)

Interest and other income, net

  901 901   901   901   901   901 

Interest Income

 1,083  1,083 (1,083)(BB)      1,083  (1,083)(BB)  

Income (loss) before income taxes

 75 (45,570) (45,495) (873) (46,368)  (46,368) 75 (45,570) (873) (46,368)

Provision for income taxes

 (16)  (16) 16  (CC)      (16)  16  (CC)  

Net Income (loss)

 $59 $(45,570)$(45,511)$(857)$(46,368)$ $(46,368) $59 $(45,570)$(857)$(46,368)

        

Basic and diluted net loss per common share

 $(0.09)       $(0.21)   $(0.24)

Weighted average shares outstanding, basic and diluted

 9,033,344       224,374,000   194,359,000 
 
  
  
 Assuming No
Redemptions
 Assuming
Maximum
Redemptions
 

Basic and diluted net loss per common share

 $(0.09)   $(0.21)$(0.24)

Weighted average shares outstanding, basic and diluted

  9,033,344     224,374,000  194,359,000 

Table of Contents


UNAUDITED PRO FORMA CONDENSED COMBINED STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2019
(in thousands, except share and per share data)


  
  
  
  
  
  
 For the
Year Ended
December 31,
2019
 

  
  
  
  
 For the
Year Ended
December 31,
2019
  
 

 For the
Year Ended December 31, 2019
  
 Additional
Pro Forma
Adjustments
(Assuming
Maximum
Redemptions)
For the
Year Ended
December 31,
2019

  
  For the
Year Ended
December 31,
2019
  
  
 Assuming No Redemptions
and Maximum Redemptions
 

 Pro Forma
Adjustments
(Assuming No
Redemptions)
 Pro Forma
Combined
(Assuming
Maximum
Redemptions)
  For the Year Ended
December 31, 2019
  
 For the
Year Ended
December 31, 2019
 

 Trine
(Historical)
(US GAAP)
 Desktop Metal
(Historical)
(US GAAP)
 CombinedAdditional
Pro Forma
Adjustments
(Assuming
Maximum
Redemptions)
 Trine
(Historical)
(US GAAP)
 Desktop Metal
(Historical)
(US GAAP)
 Pro Forma
Adjustments
 Pro Forma
Combined
 

Revenue

 $ $26,439 $26,439    $26,439 $ $26,439   $26,439 

Cost of sales

  50,796 50,796   50,796   50,796  50,796   50,796 

Gross Margin

  (24,357) (24,357)  (24,357)  (24,357)  (24,357)  (24,357)

Operating costs

 1,857  1,857 (333)(AA) 1,524   1,524  1,857  (333)(AA) 1,524 

Research and development

  54,656 54,656   54,656   54,656   54,656   54,656 

Sales and marketing

  18,749 18,749   18,749   18,749   18,749   18,749 

General and administration

  11,283 11,283   11,283   11,283   11,283   11,283 

Total operating expenses

 1,857 84,688 86,545 (333) 86,212  86,212  1,857 84,688 (333) 86,212 

Loss from operations

 (1,857) (109,045) (110,902) 333 (110,569)  (110,569) (1,857) (109,045) 333 (110,569)

Interest expense

  (503) (503)   (503)  (503)  (503)   (503)

Interest and other income, net

  5,952 5,952  5,952   5,952   5,952  5,952 

Interest income

 5,142  5,142 (5,142)(BB)      5,142  (5,142)(BB)  

Unrealized gain on marketable securities held in Trust Account

 170  170 (170)(BB)      170  (170)(BB)  

Income (loss) before income taxes

 3,455 (103,596) (100,141) (4,979) (105,120)  (105,120) 3,455 (103,596) (4,979) (105,120)

Provision for income taxes

 (726)  (726) 726  (CC)      (726)  726  (CC)  

Net Income (loss)

 $2,729 $(103,596)$(100,867)$(4,253)$(105,120)$ $(105,120) $2,729 $(103,596)$(4,253)$(105,120)

        

Basic and diluted net loss per common share

 $(0.18)       $(0.47)   $(0.54)

Weighted average shares outstanding, basic and diluted

 8,348,930       224,374,000   194,359,000 


 
  
  
 Assuming No
Redemptions
 Assuming
Maximum
Redemptions
 

Basic and diluted net loss per common share

 $(0.18)   $(0.47)$(0.54)

Weighted average shares outstanding, basic and diluted

  8,348,930     224,374,000  194,359,000 

Table of Contents


NOTES TO UNAUDITED PRO FORMA CONDENSED COMBINED FINANCIAL INFORMATION

1.     Basis of Presentation

        Under both the no redemption and the maximum redemption scenarios, the Business Combination will be accounted for as a reverse recapitalization, with no goodwill or other intangible assets recorded, in accordance with GAAP. Under this method of accounting, Trine will be treated as the "acquired" company for financial reporting purposes. Accordingly, for accounting purposes, the Business Combination will be treated as the equivalent of Desktop Metal issuing stock for the net assets of Trine, accompanied by a recapitalization. The net assets of Trine will be stated at historical cost, with no goodwill or other intangible assets recorded.

        The unaudited pro forma condensed combined balance sheet as of June 30, 2020 assumes that the Transactions occurred on June 30, 2020. The unaudited pro forma condensed combined statement of operations for the year ended December 31, 2019 and for the six months ended June 30, 2020 presents pro forma effect to the Transactions as if they had been completed on January 1, 2019.

        The unaudited pro forma condensed combined balance sheet as of June 30, 2020 has been prepared using, and should be read in conjunction with, the following:

    Trine's unaudited condensed balance sheet as of June 30, 2020 and the related notes for the six months ended June 30, 2020 included elsewhere in this proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus; and

    Desktop Metal's unaudited condensed consolidated balance sheet as of June 30, 2020 and the related notes for the six months ended June 30, 2020 included elsewhere in this proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus.

        The unaudited pro forma condensed combined statement of operations for the six months ended June 30, 2020 has been prepared using, and should be read in conjunction with, the following:

    Trine's unaudited condensed statement of operations for the six months ended June 30, 2020 and the related notes included elsewhere in this proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus; and

    Desktop Metal's unaudited condensed consolidated statements of operations for the six months ended June 30, 2020 and the related notes included elsewhere in this proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus.

        The unaudited pro forma condensed combined statement of operations for the year ended December 31, 2019 has been prepared using, and should be read in conjunction with, the following:

    Trine's audited statement of operations for the year ended December 31, 2019 and the related notes included elsewhere in this proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus; and

    Desktop Metal's audited consolidated statements of operations for the year ended December 31, 2019 and the related notes, included elsewhere in this proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus.

        Management has made significant estimates and assumptions in its determination of the pro forma adjustments. As the unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial information has been prepared based on these preliminary estimates, the final amounts recorded may differ materially from the information presented.

        The unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial information does not give effect to any anticipated synergies, operating efficiencies, tax savings, or cost savings that may be associated with the Transactions.


Table of Contents

        The pro forma adjustments reflecting the consummation of the Transactions are based on certain currently available information and certain assumptions and methodologies that Trine believes are reasonable under the circumstances. The unaudited condensed pro forma adjustments, which are described in the accompanying notes, may be revised as additional information becomes available and is evaluated. Therefore, it is likely that the actual adjustments will differ from the pro forma adjustments and it is possible the difference may be material. Trine believes that these assumptions and methodologies provide a reasonable basis for presenting all of the significant effects of the Transactions based on information available to management at the time and that the pro forma adjustments give appropriate effect to those assumptions and are properly applied in the unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial information.

        The unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial information is not necessarily indicative of what the actual results of operations and financial position would have been had the Transactions taken place on the dates indicated, nor are they indicative of the future consolidated results of operations or financial position of the Post-Combination Company. They should be read in conjunction with the historical financial statements and notes thereto of Trine and Desktop Metal.

2.     Accounting Policies

        As part of the preparation of these unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial statements, certain reclassifications were made to align Trine's and Desktop Metal's financial statement presentation. Upon completion of the Transactions, management will perform a comprehensive review of Trine's and Desktop Metal's accounting policies. As a result of the review, management may identify differences between the accounting policies of the two entities which, when conformed, could have a material impact on the financial statements of the Post-Combination Company. Based on its initial analysis, Trine has identified the presentation differences that would have an impact on the unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial information and recorded the necessary adjustments.

3.     Adjustments to Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Combined Financial Information

        The unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial information has been prepared to illustrate the effect of the Transactions and has been prepared for informational purposes only. The historical financial statements have been adjusted in the unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial information to give pro forma effect to events that are (1) directly attributable to the Transactions, (2) factually supportable, and (3) with respect to the statements of operations, expected to have a continuing impact on the results of the Post-Combination Company. Trine and Desktop Metal have not had any historical relationship prior to the Business Combination. Accordingly, no pro forma adjustments were required to eliminate activities between the companies.

        The unaudited pro forma combined provision for income taxes does not necessarily reflect the amounts that would have resulted had the Post-Combination Company filed consolidated income tax returns during the periods presented.

        The unaudited pro forma basic and diluted earnings per share amounts presented in the unaudited pro forma condensed combined statements of operations are based upon the number of Trine's shares outstanding, assuming the Transactions occurred on January 1, 2019.

Adjustments to Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Combined Balance Sheet

        The adjustments included in the unaudited pro forma condensed combined balance sheet as of June 30, 2020 are as follows:

    (A)
    Reflects the reclassification of $305.4 million of cash held in the Trine trust account that becomes available at closing of the Business Combination.

Table of Contents

    (B)
    Reflects the settlement of $60.0 million of transaction costs at close in connection with the Business Combination. Of the total, $41.3 million relates to advisory, legal and other fees to be incurred which are adjusted against retained earnings and additional paid in capital, $10.5 million of deferred underwriting fees payable, and $8.2 million related to PIPE fees adjusted against additional paid in capital. There is an additional 2% discretionary fee advisory fee on the gross proceeds of the PIPE that Trine will determine whether to pay an external advisor at close. Trine has not determined whether this fee will be paid at close and as such, this amount is excluded from the current estimated transaction costs.

    (C)
    Reflects the proceeds of $274,975,000 from the issuance of 27,497,500 shares of Class A common stock with par value of $0.0001 in the PIPE based on commitments received which will be offset by the PIPE fee of 3% of gross proceeds or $8.2 million.

    (D)
    Reflects the cashwarrants settlement of the Trine related party convertible promissory note at close. On February 24, 2020, Trine issued an unsecured promissory note in the principal amount of $1.5 million to the Sponsor, of which $0.7 million is outstanding at June 30, 2020 (the "2020 Note") and the additional draw down in September 2020 of $0.5 million used to fund transaction expenses. The 2020 Note is non-interest bearing and payable upon the consummation of an initial business combination. Up to $1.5 million of such loans may be convertible into warrants, at a price of $1.00 per warrant at the option of the Sponsor. Such warrants would be identical to the private placement warrants. The pro forma adjustment assumes that this liability is settled in cashwarrants at close.

    (E)
    Reflects the cash settlement of the contingent fees owed to the Trine president at the close of the Business Combination. In October 2018, Trine entered into a contingent fee agreement with its president to pay the president a fixed amount per month, half of which was paid as a part of the Trine IPO and the remaining to be paid upon the consummation of a Business Combination.

    (F)
    Reflects the reclassification of Trine's accounts payable and accrued expenses and prepaid income taxes to align with the balance sheet presentation of Desktop Metal.

    (G)
    Reflects the non-cash settlement of amounts owed to the Sponsor under Trine's administrative support agreement which will cease upon the close of the Business Combination.

    (H)
    Reflects the reclassification of common stock subject to possible redemption to permanent equity at $0.0001 par value.

    (I)
    Reflects the recapitalization of Desktop Metal's equity and issuance of 183.0 million shares of Class A common stock at $0.0001 par value as consideration for the reverse recapitalization. Total consideration to be issued to Desktop Metal is $1.8 billion or 183.0 million shares ($10 per share price). The total 183.0 million consideration shares include 161.2 million shares to be issued for all issued and outstanding Desktop Metal common and preferred stock, as reflected in the pro forma balance sheet, plus 21.8 million shares underlying unvested, unissued, and/or unexercised restricted stock and options, which are excluded from the pro forma balance sheet adjustment since the shares are subject to further vesting or exercise at close.

    (J)
    Reflects the reclassification of the Founder Shares from Class B common stock to Class A common stock at close and the reclassification of the par value related to the 25% Founder Shares that remain unvested at close pursuant to the Sponsor Agreement from Class A par value to additional paid in capital.

    (K)
    Reflects the reclassification of Trine's historical retained earnings to additional paid in capital as part of the reverse recapitalization.

Table of Contents

    (L)
    Reflects the amount of compensation cost related to the acceleration of the vesting for certain existing Desktop Metal stock options.

    (M)
    Reflects the settlement of one-time bonus payments to Desktop Metal executives as a part of the Business Combination.

    (N)
    Reflects the maximum redemption of all approximately 30.0 million Trine Public Shares outstanding for the $305.4 million held in trust, which is allocated to Class A common stock and additional paid-in capital using $0.0001 par value per share.

Adjustments to Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Combined Statements of Operations

        The pro forma adjustments included in the unaudited pro forma condensed combined statements of operations for the year ended December 31, 2019 and for the six months ended June 30, 2020 are as follows:

    (AA)
    Reflects the elimination of the Trine administrative service fee paid to the Sponsor that will cease upon the close of the Business Combination.

    (BB)
    Reflects the elimination of interest income and unrealized gain earned on the Trine trust account.

    (CC)
    Reflects the income tax effect of pro forma adjustments using the estimated effective tax rate of 0%. In its historical periods, Desktop Metal concluded that it is more likely than not that it will not recognize the benefits of federal and state net deferred tax assets and as a result established a valuation allowance. For pro forma purposes, it is assumed that this conclusion will continue at the close date of the Business Combination and as such, a 0% effective tax rate is reflected.

4.     Loss per Share

        Net loss per share calculated using the historical weighted average shares outstanding, and the issuance of additional shares in connection with the Transactions, assuming the shares were outstanding since January 1, 2019. As the Transactions are being reflected as if they had occurred at the beginning of the periods presented, the calculation of weighted average shares outstanding for basic and diluted net loss per share assumes that the shares issuable relating to the Transactions have been outstanding for the entire periods presented. If the maximum number of shares are redeemed, this calculation is retroactively adjusted to eliminate such shares for the entire periods.


Table of Contents

        The unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial information has been prepared assuming two alternative levels of redemption for the year ended December 31, 2019 and for the Six Months ended June 30, 2020:

 
 Six Months Ended June 30,
2020
 Year Ended December 31,
2019
 
(in thousands, except share and per share data)
 No
Redemptions
 Maximum
Redemptions
 No
Redemptions
 Maximum
Redemptions
 

Pro forma net loss

 $(46,368)$(46,368)$(105,120)$(105,120)

Pro forma weighted average shares outstanding—basic and diluted

  224,374,000  194,359,000  224,374,000  194,359,000 

Pro forma net loss per share—basic and diluted

 $(0.21)$(0.24)$(0.47)$(0.54)

Pro forma weighted average shares outstanding—basic and diluted

  
 
  
 
  
 
  
 
 

Trine Public Stockholders

  30,015,000    30,015,000   

Trine Founders

  5,553,000  5,553,000  5,553,000  5,553,000 

Trine Independent Directors

  100,000  100,000  100,000  100,000 

Total Trine

  35,668,000  5,653,000  35,668,000  5,653,000 

Desktop Metal(1)

  161,208,000  161,208,000  161,208,000  161,208,000 

PIPE stockholders

  27,498,000  27,498,000  27,498,000  27,498,000 

Pro forma weighted average shares outstanding—basic and diluted(2)

  224,374,000  194,359,000  224,374,000  194,359,000 

(1)
Excludes 21.8 million Desktop Metal consideration shares that will be issued upon the occurrence of future events (i.e. vesting of restricted stock or exercise of stock options). Total consideration to be issued to Desktop Metal is $1.8 billion or 183.0 million shares ($10 per share price). The total shares to be issued includes all issued and outstanding Desktop common and preferred stock plus shares underlying unvested restricted stock and options. Accordingly, the weighted average pro forma shares outstanding at close has been adjusted to exclude the portion of consideration shares that will be unvested, unissued, and/or unexercised at the closing of the Business Combination.

(2)
For the purposes of applying the if converted method for calculating diluted earnings per share, it was assumed that all outstanding warrants sold in the IPO, warrants sold in the private placement, Desktop Metal unvested restricted stock, and Desktop Metal options are exchanged for Class A common stock. However, since this results in anti-dilution, the effect of such exchange was not included in calculation of diluted loss per share. Shares underlying these instruments are as follows: (a) 23.5 million shares of Trine Class A common stock underlying the warrants sold in the Trine IPO and private placement, (b) 21.8 million Desktop Metal consideration shares for unvested, unissued, and/or unexexercised restricted stock and stock options.

Table of Contents


DESKTOP METAL'S SOLICITATION OF WRITTEN CONSENTS

Purpose of the Consent Solicitation; Recommendation of the Desktop Metal Board of Directors

        The Desktop Metal board of directors is providing this proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus to Desktop Metal stockholders. Desktop Metal stockholders are being asked to adopt and approve the Desktop Metal Merger Proposal by executing and delivering the written consent furnished with this proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus.

        After consideration, the Desktop Metal board of directors unanimously approved and declared advisable the Merger Agreement and the Business Combination, upon the terms and conditions set forth in the Merger Agreement, and unanimously determined that the Merger Agreement and the transaction are in the best interests of Desktop Metal and its stockholders. The Desktop Metal board of directors unanimously recommends that Desktop Metal stockholders approve the Desktop Metal Merger Proposal.

Desktop Metal Stockholders Entitled to Consent

        Only Desktop Metal stockholders of record as of the close of business on ,August 25, 2020, the Desktop Metal Record Date, will be entitled to execute and deliver a written consent. As of the close of the Desktop Metal Record Date, there were 31,716,208 shares of Desktop Metal common stock outstanding and 100,038,109 shares of Desktop Metal preferred stock outstanding, consisting of 26,189,545 shares of Desktop Metal Series A preferred stock, 23,675,035 shares of Desktop Metal Series B preferred stock, 13,152,896 shares of Desktop Metal Series C preferred stock, 21,075,193 shares of Desktop Metal Series D preferred stock, 13,450,703 shares of Desktop Metal Series E preferred stock and 2,494,737 shares of Desktop Metal Series E-1 preferred stock, in each case entitled to execute and deliver written consents with respect to the Desktop Metal Merger Agreement Proposal. Each holder of Desktop Metal common stock is entitled to one vote for each share of Desktop Metal common stock held as of the Desktop Metal Record Date. Each holder of Desktop Metal preferred stock is entitled to a number of votes equal to the number of shares of Desktop Metal common stock into which the shares of Desktop Metal preferred stock held by such holder could be converted as of the Desktop Metal Record Date.

Written Consents; Required Written Consents

        The approval of the Desktop Metal Merger Proposal requires the affirmative vote or consent of (i) the holders of a majority of the voting power of the outstanding shares of Desktop Metal common stock and Desktop Metal preferred stock (on an as-converted to Desktop Metal common stock basis) voting together as a single class and (b) the holders of a majority of the outstanding shares of Desktop Metal preferred stock (on an as-converted to Desktop Metal common stock basis) voting together as a single class.

        Concurrently with the execution of the Merger Agreement, Trine, Merger Sub and the Supporting Desktop Metal Stockholders entered into the Support Agreements. Each Support Agreement provides, among other things, that on (or effective as of) the third business day following the date that this proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus is disseminated to Desktop Metal's stockholders, each Supporting Desktop Metal Stockholder will execute and deliver a written consent with respect to the outstanding shares of Desktop Metal common stock and preferred stock held by such Supporting Desktop Metal Stockholder adopting the Merger Agreement and approving the Merger. The shares of Desktop Metal capital stock that are owned by the Supporting Desktop Metal Stockholders and subject to the Support Agreements represent approximately %57.1% of the outstanding shares of Desktop Metal common stock and approximately %66.0% of the outstanding shares of Desktop Metal preferred stock, in each case as of the Desktop Metal Record Date. The execution and delivery of written consents by all


Table of Contents

all of the Supporting Desktop Metal Stockholders will constitute the Desktop Metal stockholder approval at the time of such delivery.

Submission of Written Consents

        You may consent to the Desktop Metal Merger Proposal with respect to your shares of Desktop Metal capital stock by completing, dating and signing the written consent enclosed with this proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus and returning it to Desktop Metal by the consent deadline.

        If you hold shares of Desktop Metal capital stock as of the close of business on the Desktop Metal Record Date and you wish to give your written consent, you must fill out the enclosed written consent, date and sign it, and promptly return it to Desktop Metal. Once you have completed, dated and signed the written consent, you may deliver it to Desktop Metal by emailing a .pdf copy to shareholder@desktopmetal.com or by mailing your written consent to Desktop Metal, Inc., 63 Third Avenue, Burlington, MA 01803, Attention: General Counsel.

        The Desktop Metal board of directors has set                    , 2020 as the consent deadline. Desktop Metal reserves the right to extend the consent deadline beyond                    , 2020. Any such extension may be made without notice to Desktop Metal stockholders.

        Desktop Metal stockholders should not send stock certificates with their written consents. After the transaction is completed, a letter of transmittal and written instructions for the surrender of Desktop Metal stock certificates or electronic certificates, as applicable, will be mailed to Desktop stockholders. Do not send in your certificates now.

Executing Written Consents; Revocation of Written Consents

        You may execute a written consent to approve the Desktop Metal Merger Proposal (which is equivalent to a vote for such proposal), or disapprove, or abstain from consenting with respect to, the Desktop Metal Merger Proposal (which is equivalent to a vote against such proposal). If you do not return your written consent, it will have the same effect as a vote against the Desktop Metal Merger Proposal. If you are a record holder of shares of Desktop Metal common stock and/or preferred stock and you return a signed written consent without indicating your decision on the Desktop Metal Merger Proposal, you will have given your consent to approve such proposal.

        Your consent to the Desktop Metal Merger Proposal may be changed or revoked at any time before the consent deadline; however, such change or revocation is not expected to have any effect, as the delivery of the written consents contemplated by the Support Agreements will constitute the Desktop Metal stockholder approval at the time of such delivery. If you wish to change or revoke your consent before the consent deadline, you may do so by sending a new written consent with a later date or by delivering a notice of revocation, in either case by emailing a .pdf copy to shareholder@desktopmetal.com or by mailing your written consent to Desktop Metal, Inc., 63 Third Avenue, Burlington, MA 01803, Attention: General Counsel.

        Due to the obligations of the Supporting Desktop Metal Stockholders under the Support Agreements, a failure of any other Desktop Metal stockholder to deliver a written consent, or any change or revocation of a previously delivered written consent by any other Desktop Metal stockholder, is not expected to have any effect on the approval of the Desktop Metal Merger Proposal.

Solicitation of Written Consents; Expenses

        The expense of preparing, printing and mailing these consent solicitation materials is being borne by Desktop Metal. Officers and employees of Desktop Metal may solicit consents by telephone and personally, in addition to solicitation by mail. These persons will receive their regular compensation but no special compensation for soliciting consents.


Table of Contents


TRINE'S SPECIAL MEETING OF STOCKHOLDERS

General

        Trine is furnishing this proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus to Trine's stockholders as part of the solicitation of proxies by the Trine Board for use at the Special Meeting of Trine stockholders to be held on                    , 2020, and at any adjournment or postponement thereof. This proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus provides Trine's stockholders with information they need to know to be able to vote or instruct their vote to be cast at the Special Meeting.

Date, Time and Place of Special Meeting

        The Special Meeting of stockholders will be held on                    , 2020, at 9:00 a.m., eastern time, in virtual format.

Voting Power; Record Date

        You will be entitled to vote or direct votes to be cast at the Special Meeting if you owned shares of common stock at the close of business on ,October 30, 2020, which is the record date for the Special Meeting. You are entitled to one vote for each share of common stock that you owned as of the close of business on the Trine Record Date. If your shares are held in "street name" or are in a margin or similar account, you should contact your broker, bank or other nominee to ensure that votes related to the shares you beneficially own are properly counted. On the Trine Record Date, there were 37,518,750 shares of common stock outstanding, of which 30,015,000 are Public Shares and 7,503,750 are Founder Shares.

Purpose of the Special Meeting

        At the Special Meeting, Trine is asking holders of Trine common stock to vote on the following proposals:

    The Business Combination Proposal—To consider and vote upon a proposal to approve the Merger Agreement and the transactions contemplated thereby (Proposal No. 1);

    The Charter Amendment Proposal—To consider and vote upon a proposal to adopt the Charter Amendment in the form attached to the Merger Agreement as Exhibit D (Proposal No. 2);

    The Charter Approval Proposal—To consider and vote upon a proposal to adopt the Proposed Charter in the form attached hereto as Annex B (Proposal No. 3);

    The Governance Proposal—To consider and act upon, on a non-binding advisory basis, a separate proposal with respect to certain governance provisions in the Proposed Charter in accordance with SEC requirementsorder to give holders of Trine's common stock the opportunity to present their separate views on important corporate governance procedures (Proposal No. 4);

    The Director Election Proposal—To consider and vote upon a proposal to elect 1110 directors to serve on the Board until the 2021 annual meeting of stockholders, in the case of Class I directors, the 2022 annual meeting of stockholders, in the case of Class II directors, and the 2023 annual meeting of stockholders, in the case of Class III directors, and, in each case, until their respective successors are duly elected and qualified (Proposal No. 5);

    The Merger Issuance Proposal—To consider and vote upon a proposal to approve, for purposes of complying with applicable listing rules of the NYSE, the issuance of shares of Class A common stock pursuant to the Business Combination (Proposal No. 6);

Table of Contents

    The Subscription Agreements Proposal—To consider and vote upon a proposal to approve, for purposes of complying with applicable listing rules of the NYSE, the issuance of shares of Class A common stock pursuant to the Subscription Agreements (Proposal No. 7);

    The Incentive Plan Proposal—To consider and vote upon a proposal to approve and adopt the Incentive Plan (Proposal No. 8); and

    The Adjournment Proposal—To consider and vote upon a proposal to approve the adjournment of the Special Meeting to a later date or dates, if necessary, to permit further solicitation and vote of proxies in the event that there are insufficient votes for, or otherwise in connection with, the approval of the Business Combination Proposal, the Charter Amendment Proposal, the Charter Approval Proposal, the Merger Issuance Proposal, the Subscription Agreements Proposal or the Incentive Plan Proposal or we determine that one or more of the closing conditions under the Merger Agreement is not satisfied or waived (Proposal No. 9).

Vote of Trine's Sponsor, Directors and Officers

        Trine has entered an agreement with the Sponsor and Trine's directors and officers, pursuant to which each agreed to vote any shares of common stock owned by them in favor of each of the proposals presented at the Special Meeting.

        The Sponsor and Trine's directors and officers have waived any redemption rights, including with respect to any Public Shares purchased in the Trine IPO or in the aftermarket, in connection an initial business combination. The Founder Shares held by the Initial Stockholders have no redemption rights upon our liquidation and will be worthless if no business combination is effected by us within the Completion Window. However, the Sponsor and Trine's directors and officers are entitled to redemption rights upon our liquidation with respect to any Public Shares they may own.

Quorum and Required Vote for Proposals for the Special Meeting

        A quorum of Trine stockholders is necessary to hold a valid meeting. A quorum will be present at the Special Meeting if a majority of the issued and outstanding common stock entitled to vote as of the Trine Record Date is represented in person (which would include presence at a virtual meeting) or by proxy. Abstentions and broker non-votes will be counted as present for the purpose of determining a quorum. The Initial Stockholders, who currently own 20% of the issued and outstanding shares of common stock, will count towards this quorum. As of the Trine Record Date, 18,759,376 shares of common stock would be required to achieve a quorum.

        The approval of each of the Business Combination Proposal, Governance Proposal, the Merger Issuance Proposal, the Subscription Agreements Proposal, the Incentive Plan Proposal and the Adjournment Proposal, if presented, will require the affirmative vote of the majority of the votes cast by the stockholders present in person (which would include presence at a virtual meeting) or represented by proxy at the Special Meeting. Accordingly, a stockholder's failure to vote by proxy or to vote in person (which would include presence at a virtual meeting) at the Special Meeting, as well as an abstention from voting and a broker non-vote with regard to each of the Business Combination Proposal, the Governance Proposal, the Merger Issuance Proposal, the Subscription Agreements Proposal, the Incentive Plan Proposal or the Adjournment Proposal, if presented, will have no effect on the Business Combination Proposal, the Governance Proposal, the Merger Issuance Proposal, the Subscription Agreements Proposal, the Incentive Plan Proposal or the Adjournment Proposal. Trine's Sponsor and its directors and officers have agreed to vote their shares of common stock in favor of each of the proposals presented at the Special Meeting.

        The approval of the Charter Amendment Proposal and the Charter Approval Proposal will require the affirmative vote of (i) the holders of a majority of the Founder Shares then outstanding, voting


Table of Contents

separately as a single class, and (ii) the holders of a majority of the outstanding shares of common stock on the Trine Record Date, voting together as a single class. Accordingly, a stockholder's failure to vote by proxy or to vote in person (which would include presence at a virtual meeting) at the Special Meeting, as well as an abstention from voting and a broker non-vote with regard to the Charter Amendment Proposal or the Charter Approval Proposal, will have the same effect as a vote "AGAINST" such proposal.

        Directors are elected by a plurality of all of the votes cast by the stockholders present in person (which would include presence at a virtual meeting) or represented by proxy at the Special Meeting. This means that the 1110 director nominees who receive the most affirmative votes will be elected. Stockholders may not cumulate their votes with respect to the election of directors. Accordingly, a stockholder's failure to vote by proxy or to vote in person (which would include presence at a virtual meeting) at the Special Meeting, as well as an abstention from voting and a broker non-vote with regard to election of directors, will have no effect on the election of directors.

        The Business Combination is conditioned on the approval of the Business Combination Proposal, the Charter Amendment Proposal, the Charter Approval Proposal, the Merger Issuance Proposal, the Subscription Agreements Proposal and the Incentive Plan Proposal at the Special Meeting, subject to the terms of the Merger Agreement. The Business Combination is not conditioned on the Governance Proposal, the Director Election Proposal or the Adjournment Proposal. If the Business Combination Proposal is not approved, the other proposals (except the Adjournment Proposal) will not be presented to the stockholders for a vote.

        It is important for you to note that in the event that the Business Combination Proposal, the Charter Amendment Proposal, the Charter Approval Proposal, the Merger Issuance Proposal, the Subscription Agreements Proposal or the Incentive Plan Proposal do not receive the requisite vote for approval, Trine will not consummate the Business Combination. If Trine does not consummate the Business Combination and fails to complete an initial business combination within the Completion Window, it will be required to dissolve and liquidate the trust account by returning the then remaining funds in such account to its public stockholders.

Recommendation of Trine Board of Directors

        The Trine Board unanimously determined that the Merger Agreement and the transactions contemplated thereby, including the Business Combination, were advisable, fair to, and in the best interests of, Trine and its stockholders. Accordingly, the Trine Board unanimously recommends that its stockholders "FOR" each of the Business Combination Proposal, the Charter Amendment Proposal, the Charter Approval Proposal, the Governance Proposal, the Director Election Proposal, the Merger Issuance Proposal, the Subscription Agreements Proposal, the Incentive Plan Proposal and the Adjournment Proposal.

        In considering the recommendation of the Trine Board to vote in favor of approval of the proposals, stockholders should keep in mind that the Sponsor and Trine's directors and officers have interests in such proposals that are different from or in addition to (and which may conflict with) those of Trine stockholders. Stockholders should take these interests into account in deciding whether to approve the proposals presented at the Special Meeting, including the Business Combination Proposal. These interests include, among other things:

    If the Business Combination with Desktop Metal or another business combination is not consummated within the Completion Window, Trine will cease all operations except for the purpose of winding up, redeeming 100% of the outstanding Public Shares for cash and, subject to the approval of its remaining stockholders and the Trine Board, dissolving and liquidating. In such event, the 7,503,750 Founder Shares held by the Sponsor which were acquired for an aggregate purchase price of $25,000 prior to the Trine IPO, would be worthless because the

Table of Contents

      Sponsor is not entitled to participate in any redemption or distribution with respect to such shares. Such shares had an aggregate market value of $$76,538,250 based upon the closing price of $$10.20 per share of Class A common stock on the NYSE on ,October 30, 2020, the Trine Record Date. Certain Founder Shares are subject to certain time- and performance-based vesting provisions as described under "Other Agreements—Sponsor Agreement."

    The Sponsor purchased an aggregate of 8,503,000 private placement warrants from Trine for an aggregate purchase price of $8,503,000 (or $1.00 per warrant). These purchases took place on a private placement basis simultaneously with the consummation of the Trine IPO and the subsequent exercise of their over-allotment option by the underwriters of the Trine IPO. A portion of the proceeds Trine received from these purchases were placed in the trust account. Such warrants had an aggregate market value of $$14,455,100 based upon the closing price of $$1.70 per public warrant on the NYSE on ,October 30, 2020, the Trine Record Date. The private placement warrants will become worthless if Trine does not consummate a business combination within the Completion Window.

    Leo Hindery, Jr. will become a director of the Post-Combination Company after the closing of the Business Combination. As such, in the future he will receive any cash fees, stock options or stock awards that the Board determines to pay to its directors.

    If Trine is unable to complete a business combination within the Completion Window, its executive officers will be personally liable under certain circumstances described herein to ensure that the proceeds in the trust account are not reduced by the claims of target businesses or claims of vendors or other entities that are owed money by Trine for services rendered or contracted for or products sold to Trine. If Trine consummates a business combination, on the other hand, Trine will be liable for all such claims.

    Trine's directors and officers, and their affiliates are entitled to reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses incurred by them in connection with certain activities on Trine's behalf, such as identifying and investigating possible business targets and business combinations. However, if Trine fails to consummate a business combination within the Completion Window, they will not have any claim against the trust account for reimbursement. Accordingly, Trine may not be able to reimburse these expenses if the Business Combination or another business combination is not consummated within the Completion Window. Additionally, Trine's President and Chief Financial Officer are entitled to payment of monthly fees. In the case of Trine's President, a portion of such fees has accrued and will become payable on the consummation of the Business Combination. In the case of Trine's Chief Financial Officer, such fees are payable until the earlier of the consummation of Trine's initial business combination or our liquidation.

    The continued indemnification of current directors and officers and the continuation of directors' and officers' liability insurance.

Abstentions and Broker Non-Votes

        Abstentions are considered present for the purposes of establishing a quorum and will have the same effect as a vote "AGAINST" the Charter Amendment Proposal and the Charter Approval Proposal. Broker non-votes are considered present for the purposes of establishing a quorum and will have the effect of a vote "AGAINST" the Charter Amendment Proposal and the Charter Approval Proposal. Abstentions and broker non-votes will have no effect on the Business Combination Proposal, the Governance Proposal, the Director Election Proposal, the Merger Issuance Proposal, the Subscription Agreements Proposal, the Incentive Plan Proposal and the Adjournment Proposal.

        In general, if your shares are held in "street" name and you do not instruct your broker, bank or other nominee on a timely basis on how to vote your shares, your broker, bank or other nominee, in its


Table of Contents

sole discretion, may either leave your shares unvoted or vote your shares on routine matters, but not on any non-routine matters. None of the proposals at the Special Meeting are routine matters. As such, without your voting instructions, your brokerage firm cannot vote your shares on any proposal to be voted on at the Special Meeting.

Voting Your Shares—Stockholders of Record

        Trine stockholders may vote electronically at the Special Meeting by visiting            or by proxy. Trine recommends that you submit your proxy even if you plan to attend the Special Meeting. If you vote by proxy, you may change your vote by submitting a later dated proxy before the deadline or by voting electronically at the Special Meeting.

        If your shares are owned directly in your name with our transfer agent, Continental, you are considered, with respect to those shares, the "stockholder of record." If your shares are held in a stock brokerage account or by a bank or other nominee or intermediary, you are considered the beneficial owner of shares held in "street name" and are considered a "non-record (beneficial) stockholder."

        If you are a Trine stockholder of record you may use the enclosed proxy card to tell the persons named as proxies how to vote your shares. If you properly complete, sign and date your proxy card, your shares will be voted in accordance with your instructions. The named proxies will vote all shares at the Special Meeting for which proxies have been properly submitted and not revoked. If you sign and return your proxy card but do not mark your card to tell the proxies how to vote, your shares will be voted "FOR" each of the proposals presented at the Special Meeting.

        Your shares will be counted for purposes of determining a quorum if you vote:

    via the Internet;

    by telephone;

    by submitting a properly executed proxy card or voting instruction form by mail; or

    electronically at the Special Meeting.

        Abstentions will be counted for determining whether a quorum is present for the Special Meeting.

        Voting instructions are printed on the proxy card or voting information form you received. Either method of submitting a proxy will enable your shares to be represented and voted at the Special Meeting.

Voting Your Shares—Beneficial Owners

        If your shares are held in an account at a brokerage firm, bank or other nominee, then you are the beneficial owner of shares held in "street name" and this proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus is being sent to you by that broker, bank or other nominee. The broker, bank or other nominee holding your account is considered to be the stockholder of record for purposes of voting at the Special Meeting. As a beneficial owner, you have the right to direct your broker, bank or other nominee regarding how to vote the shares in your account by following the instructions that the broker, bank or other nominee provides you along with this proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus. Your broker, bank or other nominee may have an earlier deadline by which you must provide instructions to it as to how to vote your shares. As a beneficial owner, if you wish to vote at the Special Meeting, you will need to bring to the Special Meeting a legal proxy from your broker, bank or other nominee authorizing you to vote those shares. That is the only way we can be sure that the broker, bank or nominee has not already voted your shares of common stock.


Table of Contents

Revoking Your Proxy

        If you are a stockholder and you give a proxy, you may revoke it at any time before it is exercised by doing any one of the following:

    you may send another proxy card with a later date;

    you may notify Trine's Secretary in writing before the Special Meeting that you have revoked your proxy; or

    you may attend the Special Meeting and vote electronically by visiting            and entering the control number found on your proxy card, instruction form or notice you previously received. Attendance at the Special Meeting will not, in and of itself, revoke a proxy.

        If your shares are held in "street name" or are in a margin or similar account, you should contact your broker for information on how to change or revoke your voting instructions.

No Additional Matters

        The Special Meeting has been called only to consider the approval of the Business Combination Proposal, the Charter Amendment Proposal, the Charter Approval Proposal, the Governance Proposal, the Director Election Proposal, the Merger Issuance Proposal, the Subscription Agreements Proposal, the Incentive Plan Proposal and the Adjournment Proposal. Under Trine's bylaws, other than procedural matters incident to the conduct of the Special Meeting, no other matters may be considered at the Special Meeting if they are not included in this proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus, which serves as the notice of the Special Meeting.

Who Can Answer Your Questions About Voting Your Shares

        If you are a stockholder and have any questions about how to vote or direct a vote in respect of your shares of Trine common stock, you may call Innisfree M&A Incorporated, Trine's proxy solicitor, at (877) 456-3463 or Trine at (212) 503-2855.

Redemption Rights

        Holders of Public Shares may seek to redeem their shares for cash, regardless of whether they vote for or against, or abstain from voting on, the Business Combination Proposal. Any stockholder holding Public Shares may demand that Trine redeem such shares for a pro rata portion of the trust account (which, for illustrative purposes, was $$10.17 per share as of ,October 30, 2020, the Trine Record Date), calculated as of two business days prior to the anticipated consummation of the Business Combination. If a holder properly seeks redemption as described in this section and the Business Combination with Desktop Metal is consummated, Trine will redeem these shares for a pro rata portion of funds deposited in the trust account and the holder will no longer own these shares following the Business Combination.

        Notwithstanding the foregoing, a holder of Public Shares, together with any affiliate of his or any other person with whom he is acting in concert or as a "group" (as defined in Section 13(d)(3) of the Exchange Act), will be restricted from seeking redemption rights with respect to more than 15% of the Public Shares without the consent of Trine. Accordingly, all Public Shares in excess of 15% held by a public stockholder, together with any affiliate of such holder or any other person with whom such holder is acting in concert or as a "group," will not be redeemed for cash without the consent of Trine.

        The Sponsor and Trine's directors and officers will not have redemption rights with respect to any shares of common stock owned by them, directly or indirectly in connection with the Business Combination.


Table of Contents

        Trine public stockholders may seek to redeem their shares for cash, regardless of whether they vote for or against, or abstain from voting on, the Business Combination Proposal. Holders may demand redemption by delivering their stock, either physically or electronically using Depository Trust Company's DWAC System, to Trine's transfer agent no later than the second business day preceding the vote on the Business Combination Proposal. If you hold the shares in street name, you will have to coordinate with your broker to have your shares certificated or delivered electronically. Certificates that have not been tendered (either physically or electronically) in accordance with these procedures will not be redeemed for cash. There is a nominal cost associated with this tendering process and the act of certificating the shares or delivering them through the DWAC system. The transfer agent will typically charge the tendering broker $80.00 and it would be up to the broker whether or not to pass this cost on to the redeeming stockholder. In the event the proposed Business Combination is not consummated this may result in an additional cost to stockholders for the return of their shares.

        Any request to redeem such shares, once made, may be withdrawn at any time up to the vote on the Business Combination Proposal. Furthermore, if a holder of a Public Share delivered its certificate in connection with an election of its redemption and subsequently decides prior to the applicable date not to elect to exercise such rights, it may simply request that the transfer agent return the certificate (physically or electronically).

        If the Business Combination is not approved or completed for any reason, then Trine's public stockholders who elected to exercise their redemption rights will not be entitled to redeem their shares for a pro rata portion of the trust account, as applicable. In such case, Trine will promptly return any shares delivered by public stockholders.

        The closing price of Trine Class A common stock on ,October 30, 2020, the Trine Record Date, was $            .$10.20. The cash held in the trust account on such date was approximately $$305.4 million ($10.17 per Public Share). Prior to exercising redemption rights, stockholders should verify the market price of Trine common stock as they may receive higher proceeds from the sale of their common stock in the public market than from exercising their redemption rights if the market price per share is higher than the redemption price. Trine cannot assure its stockholders that they will be able to sell their shares of Trine common stock in the open market, even if the market price per share is higher than the redemption price stated above, as there may not be sufficient liquidity in its securities when its stockholders wish to sell their shares.

        If a holder of Public Shares exercises its redemption rights, then it will be exchanging its shares of Trine common stock for cash and will no longer own those shares. You will be entitled to receive cash for these shares only if you properly demand redemption no later than the second business day preceding the vote on the Business Combination Proposal by delivering your stock certificate (either physically or electronically) to Trine's transfer agent prior to the vote at the Special Meeting, and the Business Combination is consummated.

Appraisal Rights

        Neither stockholders, unitholders nor warrant holders of Trine have appraisal rights in connection the Business Combination under the DGCL.

Proxy Solicitation Costs

        Trine is soliciting proxies on behalf of the Trine Board. This solicitation is being made by mail but also may be made by telephone or in person. Trine and its directors, officers and employees may also solicit proxies in person, by telephone or by other electronic means. Trine will bear the cost of the solicitation.

        Trine has hired Innisfree M&A Incorporated to assist in the proxy solicitation process. Trine will pay that firm a fee of $20,000 plus disbursements. Such payment will be made from non-trust account funds.


Table of Contents

        Trine will ask banks, brokers and other institutions, nominees and fiduciaries to forward the proxy materials to their principals and to obtain their authority to execute proxies and voting instructions. Trine will reimburse them for their reasonable expenses.

The Initial Stockholders

        As of ,October 30, the Trine Record Date, the Initial Stockholders of record were entitled to vote an aggregate of 7,503,750 Founder Shares that were issued prior to the Trine IPO. Such shares currently constitute 20% of the outstanding shares of Trine's common stock. The Initial Stockholders have agreed to vote the Founder Shares, as well as any shares of common stock acquired in the aftermarket, in favor of each of the proposals presented at the Special Meeting. The Founder Shares have no right to participate in any redemption distribution and will be worthless if no business combination is effected by Trine.

        Upon consummation of the Business Combination, under the Sponsor Agreement, certain Founder Shares (or shares of common stock issuable upon conversion thereof) will be subject to (i) certain lock-up restrictions and (ii) certain time and performance-based vesting provisions. See "Other Agreements—Sponsor Agreement" for more information.

Purchases of Trine Shares

        At any time prior to the Special Meeting, during a period when they are not then aware of any material nonpublic information regarding Trine or its securities, the Sponsor, Desktop Metal, the Company Owners and/or their respective affiliates may purchase shares from institutional and other investors who vote, or indicate an intention to vote, against the Business Combination Proposal, or execute agreements to purchase shares from such investors in the future, or they may enter into transactions with such investors and others to provide them with incentives to acquire shares of Trine's common stock or vote their shares in favor of the Business Combination Proposal. The purpose of such share purchases and other transactions would be to increase the likelihood of satisfaction of the requirements to consummate the Business Combination where it appears that such requirements would otherwise not be met. While the exact nature of any such incentives has not been determined as of the date of this proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus, they might include, without limitation, arrangements to protect such investors or holders against potential loss in value of their shares, including the granting of put options and, with Desktop Metal's consent, the transfer to such investors or holders of shares or warrants owned by the Sponsor for nominal value.

        Entering into any such arrangements may have a depressive effect on Trine common stock. For example, as a result of these arrangements, an investor or holder may have the ability to effectively purchase shares at a price lower than market and may therefore be more likely to sell the shares he owns, either prior to or immediately after the Special Meeting.

        If such transactions are effected, the consequence could be to cause the Business Combination to be approved in circumstances where such approval could not otherwise be obtained. Purchases of shares by the persons described above would allow them to exert more influence over the approval of the Business Combination Proposal and other proposals and would likely increase the chances that such proposals would be approved.

        No agreements dealing with the above arrangements or purchases have been entered into as of the date of this proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus by the Sponsor, Desktop Metal, the Company Owners or any of their respective affiliates. Trine will file a Current Report on Form 8-K to disclose arrangements entered into or significant purchases made by any of the aforementioned persons that would affect the vote on the Business Combination Proposal or the satisfaction of any closing conditions. Any such report will include descriptions of any arrangements entered into or significant purchases by any of the aforementioned persons.


Table of Contents


PROPOSAL NO. 1—THE BUSINESS COMBINATION PROPOSAL

        Holders of Trine common stock are being asked to approve the Merger Agreement and the transactions contemplated thereby, including the Business Combination. Trine stockholders should read carefully this proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus in its entirety for more detailed information concerning the Merger Agreement, which is attached as Annex A to this proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus. Please see the sections entitled "The Business Combination" and "The Merger Agreement" in this proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus for additional information regarding the Business Combination and a summary of certain terms of the Merger Agreement. You are urged to read carefully the Merger Agreement in its entirety before voting on this proposal.

Vote Required for Approval

        This Business Combination Proposal (and consequently, the Merger Agreement and the transactions contemplated thereby, including the Business Combination) will be adopted and approved only if at least a majority of the votes cast by the stockholders present in person (which would include presence at a virtual meeting) or represented by proxy at the Special Meeting vote "FOR" the Business Combination Proposal.

        Failure to vote by proxy or to vote in person (which would include presence at a virtual meeting) at the Special Meeting, abstentions and broker non-votes will have no effect on the Business Combination Proposal.

        The Business Combination is conditioned upon the approval of the Business Combination Proposal, subject to the terms of the Merger Agreement. If the Business Combination Proposal is not approved, the other proposals (except the Adjournment Proposal, as described below) will not be presented to the stockholders for a vote.

        The Sponsor and Trine's directors and officers have agreed to vote the Founder Shares and any Public Shares owned by them in favor of the Business Combination Proposal. See "Other Agreements—Sponsor Agreement" for more information.

Recommendation of the Board of Directors

        THE TRINE BOARD OF DIRECTORS UNANIMOUSLY RECOMMENDS THAT THE TRINE STOCKHOLDERS VOTE "FOR" THE APPROVAL OF THE BUSINESS COMBINATION PROPOSAL.


Table of Contents


PROPOSAL NO. 2—THE CHARTER AMENDMENT PROPOSAL

Overview

        Our stockholders are being asked to adopt the Charter Amendment in the form attached as Exhibit D to the Merger Agreement, which, in the judgment of the Trine Board, is necessary in order for Trine to fulfill its obligations under the Merger Agreement. The Charter Amendment increases the number of authorized shares of Class A common stock from 100,000,000 to 500,000,000.

        The foregoing is a summary of the key changes effected by the Charter Amendment, but this summary is qualified in its entirety by reference to the full text of the Charter Amendment, a copy of which is included as Exhibit D to the Merger Agreement.

Reasons for the Amendment

        The Charter Amendment was negotiated as part of the Business Combination. The Trine Board believes the Charter Amendment is necessary in order for Trine to have sufficient authorized capital stock to issue pursuant to the Merger Agreement and the transactions contemplated thereby. The Trine Board also believes that it is important for the Post-Combination Company to have available for issuance a number of authorized shares of Class A common stock sufficient to support our growth and to provide flexibility for future corporate needs (including, if needed, as part of financing for future growth acquisitions). The shares would be issuable as consideration for the Business Combination and the other transactions contemplated by in this proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus, and for any proper corporate purpose, including future acquisitions, capital raising transactions consisting of equity or convertible debt, stock dividends or issuances under current and any future stock incentive plans.

Vote Required for Approval

        If the Business Combination Proposal is not approved, the Charter Amendment Proposal will not be presented at the Special Meeting. The Charter Amendment Proposal will be approved and adopted only if: (i) the holders of a majority of the Founder Shares then outstanding, voting separately as a single class, and (ii) the holders of a majority of the outstanding shares of common stock, voting together as a single class, vote "FOR" the Charter Amendment Proposal.

        Failure to vote by proxy or to vote in person (which would include presence at a virtual meeting) at the Special Meeting, abstentions and broker non-votes will have the same effect as a vote "AGAINST" the Charter Amendment Proposal.

        The Business Combination is conditioned upon the approval of the Charter Amendment Proposal, subject to the terms of the Merger Agreement. Notwithstanding the approval of the Charter Amendment Proposal, if the Business Combination is not consummated for any reason, the actions contemplated by the Charter Amendment Proposal will not be effected and by approval of the Charter Approval Proposal, Trine stockholders are authorizing the Trine Board to abandon the Charter Amendment Proposal in the event the Business Combination is not consummated.

        A copy of the Proposed Charter, as will be in effect assuming approval of the Charter Amendment Proposal and upon consummation of the Business Combination and filing with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware, is attached to this proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus as Annex B.

        The Sponsor and Trine's directors and officers have agreed to vote the Founder Shares and any Public Shares owned by them in favor of the Charter Amendment Proposal. See "Other Agreements—Sponsor Agreement" for more information.

Recommendation of the Board of Directors

        THE TRINE BOARD OF DIRECTORS UNANIMOUSLY RECOMMENDS THAT THE TRINE STOCKHOLDERS VOTE "FOR" THE APPROVAL OF THE CHARTER AMENDMENT PROPOSAL.


Table of Contents


PROPOSAL NO. 3—THE CHARTER APPROVAL PROPOSAL

Overview

        Our stockholders are being asked to adopt the Proposed Charter in the form attached hereto as Annex B, which, in the judgment of the Trine Board, is necessary to adequately address the needs of the Post-Combination Company.

        The following is a summary of the key changes effected by the Proposed Charter, but this summary is qualified in its entirety by reference to the full text of the Proposed Charter, a copy of which is included as Annex B:

    Required Vote to Amend the Charterrequire an affirmative vote of holders of at least two-thirds (66 and 2/3%) of the voting power of all the then outstanding shares of voting stock of the Post-Combination Company, voting together as a single class, to amend, alter repeal or rescind certain provisions of the Proposed Charter;

    Required Vote to Amend the Bylawsrequire an affirmative vote of holders of at least two-thirds (66 and 2/3%) of the voting power of all the then outstanding shares of voting stock of the Post-Combination Company entitled to vote generally in an election of directors to adopt, amend, alter or repeal or rescind the Post-Combination Company's bylaws;

    Director Removalprovide for the removal of directors with cause only by stockholders voting at least two-thirds (66 and 2/3%) of the voting power of all of the then outstanding shares of voting stock of the Post-Combination Company entitled to vote at an election of directors;

    Removal of Blank Check Company Provisionseliminate various provisions applicable only to blank check companies.

Reasons for the Amendments

        Each of these amendments was negotiated as part of the Business Combination. The Trine Board's reasons for proposing each of these amendments to the Existing Charter is set forth below.

Required Vote to Amend the Charter

        At present, our Existing Charter may only be amended with the approval of a majority of the Trine Board and the holders of a majority of our outstanding shares (subject to (i) certain supermajority stockholder approval requirements with respect to our redemption provisions and (ii) changes altering or changing the powers, preferences or relative, participating, optional or other or special rights of the Founder Shares require the vote or written consent of the holders of a majority of the Founder Shares). This amendment require an affirmative vote of holders of at least two-thirds (66 and 2/3%) of the voting power of all the then outstanding shares of voting stock of the Post-Combination Company, voting together as a single class, to amend, alter repeal or rescind certain provisions of the Proposed Charter. We believe that supermajority voting requirements are appropriate at this time to protect all stockholders against the potential self-interested actions by one or a few large stockholders. In reaching this conclusion, the Trine Board was cognizant of the potential for certain stockholders to hold a substantial beneficial ownership of our common stock following the Business Combination. We further believe that going forward, a supermajority voting requirement encourages the person seeking control of the Post-Combination Company to negotiate with the Board to reach terms that are appropriate for all stockholders.

Required Vote to Amend the Bylaws

        At present, our Existing Charter provides that our bylaws may be amended by the affirmative vote of the holders of a majority of the voting power of all then outstanding shares of capital stock entitled


Table of Contents

to vote generally in the election of directors, voting together as a single class. This amendment requires an affirmative vote of holders of at least two-thirds (66 and 2/3%) of the voting power of all the then outstanding shares of voting stock of the Post-Combination Company entitled to vote generally in an election of directors to adopt, amend, alter or repeal or rescind the Post-Combination Company's bylaws. The ability of the majority of the Board to amend the bylaws remains unchanged. We believe that supermajority voting requirements are appropriate at this time to protect all stockholders against the potential self-interested actions by one or a few large stockholders. In reaching this conclusion, the Trine Board was cognizant of the potential for certain stockholders to hold a substantial beneficial ownership of our common stock following the Business Combination. We further believe that going forward, a supermajority voting requirement encourages the person seeking control of the Post-Combination Company to negotiate with the Board to reach terms that are appropriate for all stockholders.

Director Removal

        At present, our Existing Charter provides that, directors may be removed from office at any time, but only for cause and only by the affirmative vote of holders of a majority of the voting power of all then outstanding shares of capital stock entitled to vote generally in the election of directors, voting together as a single class. This amendment provides for the removal of directors with cause only by stockholders voting at least two-thirds (66 and 2/3%) of the voting power of all of the then outstanding shares of voting stock of the Corporation entitled to vote at an election of directors. We believe that supermajority voting requirements are appropriate at this time to protect all stockholders against the potential self-interested actions by one or a few large stockholders. In reaching this conclusion, the Trine Board was cognizant of the potential for certain stockholders to hold a substantial beneficial ownership of our common stock following the Business Combination. We further believe that going forward, a supermajority voting requirement encourages the person seeking control of the Post-Combination Company to negotiate with the Board to reach terms that are appropriate for all stockholders.

Removal of Blank Check Company Provisions

        Our Existing Charter contains various provisions applicable only to blank check companies. This amendment eliminates certain provisions related to our status as a blank check company, which is desirable because these provisions will serve no purpose following the Business Combination. For example, these proposed amendments remove the requirement to dissolve the Post-Combination Company and allow it to continue as a corporate entity with perpetual existence following consummation of the Business Combination. Perpetual existence is the usual period of existence for corporations and we believe it is the most appropriate period for the Post-Combination Company following the Business Combination. Moreover, upon the conversion of the Class B common stock to Class A common stock, the Trine Board determined that there was no longer a need to continue with two series of common stock and, therefore, this amendment eliminates the Class B common stock. In addition, certain other provisions in our Existing Charter require that proceeds from the Trine IPO be held in the trust account until a business combination or liquidation of merger has occurred. These provisions cease to apply once the Business Combination is consummated.

Vote Required for Approval

        If the Business Combination Proposal is not approved, the Charter Approval Proposal will not be presented at the Special Meeting. The Charter Approval Proposal will be approved and adopted only if: (i) the holders of a majority of the Founder Shares then outstanding, voting separately as a single class, and (ii) the holders of a majority of the outstanding shares of common stock, voting together as a single class, vote "FOR" the Charter Approval Proposal.


Table of Contents

        Failure to vote by proxy or to vote in person (which would include presence at a virtual meeting) at the Special Meeting, abstentions and broker non-votes will have the same effect as a vote "AGAINST" the Charter Approval Proposal.

        The Business Combination is conditioned upon the approval of the Charter Approval Proposal, subject to the terms of the Merger Agreement. Notwithstanding the approval of the Charter Approval Proposal, if the Business Combination is not consummated for any reason, the actions contemplated by the Charter Approval Proposal will not be effected and by approval of the Charter Approval Proposal, Trine stockholders are authorizing the Trine Board to abandon the Charter Approval Proposal in the event the Business Combination is not consummated.

        A copy of the Proposed Charter, as will be in effect assuming approval of the Charter Approval Proposal and upon consummation of the Business Combination and filing with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware, is attached to this proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus as Annex B.

        The Sponsor and Trine's directors and officers have agreed to vote the Founder Shares and any Public Shares owned by them in favor of the Charter Approval Proposal. See "Other Agreements—Sponsor Agreement" for more information.

Recommendation of the Board of Directors

        THE TRINE BOARD OF DIRECTORS UNANIMOUSLY RECOMMENDS THAT THE TRINE STOCKHOLDERS VOTE "FOR" THE APPROVAL OF THE CHARTER APPROVAL PROPOSAL.


Table of Contents


PROPOSAL NO. 4—THE GOVERNANCE PROPOSAL

Overview

        Our stockholders are also being asked to vote on a separate proposal with respect to certain governance provisions in the Proposed Charter, which are separately being presented in accordance with SEC guidanceorder to give holders of Trine's common stock the opportunity to present their separate views on important corporate governance procedures and which will be voted upon on a non-binding advisory basis. In the judgment of the Trine Board, these provisions are necessary to adequately address the needs of the Post-Combination Company. Accordingly, regardless of the outcome of the non-binding advisory vote on these proposals, Desktop Metal and Trine intend that the Proposed Charter in the form set forth on Annex B will take effect at consummation of the Business Combination, assuming adoption of Proposal No. 3.

Proposal 4A: Required Vote to Amend the Charter

        See "Proposal No. 3—The Charter Approval Proposal—Reasons for the Amendments—Required Vote to Amend the Charter" for a description and reasons for the amendment.

Proposal 4B: Required Vote to Amend the Bylaws

        See "Proposal No. 3—The Charter Approval Proposal—Reasons for the Amendments—Required Vote to Amend the Bylaws" for a description and reasons for the amendment.

Proposal 4C: Director Removal

        See "Proposal No. 3—The Charter Approval Proposal—Reasons for the Amendments—Director Removal" for a description and reasons for the amendment.

Proposal 4D: Removal of Blank Check Company Provisions

        See "Proposal No. 3—The Charter Approval Proposal—Reasons for the Amendments—Removal of Blank Check Company Provisions" for a description and reasons for the amendment.

Vote Required for Approval

        If the Business Combination Proposal is not approved, the Governance Proposal will not be presented at the Special Meeting. The approval of the Governance Proposal requires the majority of the votes cast by the stockholders present in person (which would include presence at a virtual meeting) or represented by proxy at the Special Meeting.

        Failure to vote by proxy or to vote in person (which would include presence at a virtual meeting) at the Special Meeting, abstentions and broker non-votes will have no effect on the Governance Proposal.

        The Business Combination is not conditioned upon the approval of the Governance Proposal.

        As discussed above, a vote to approve the Governance Proposal is an advisory vote, and therefore, is not binding on Trine, Desktop Metal or their respective boards of directors. Accordingly, regardless of the outcome of the non-binding advisory vote, Trine and Desktop Metal intend that the Proposed Charter, in the form set forth on Annex B and containing the provisions noted above, will take effect at consummation of the Business Combination, assuming adoption of Proposal No. 3.

        The Sponsor and Trine's directors and officers have agreed to vote the Founder Shares and any Public Shares owned by them in favor of the Governance Proposal. See "Other Agreements—Sponsor Agreement" for more information.

Recommendation of the Board of Directors

        THE TRINE BOARD OF DIRECTORS UNANIMOUSLY RECOMMENDS THAT THE TRINE STOCKHOLDERS VOTE "FOR" THE APPROVAL OF THE GOVERNANCE PROPOSAL.


Table of Contents


PROPOSAL NO. 5—THE DIRECTOR ELECTION PROPOSAL

Overview

        Assuming the Business Combination Proposal, the Charter Amendment Proposal, the Charter Approval Proposal, the Merger Issuance Proposal, the Subscription Agreements Proposal and the Incentive Plan Proposal are approved at the Special Meeting, stockholders are being asked to elect 1110 directors to the Board, effective upon the closing of the Business Combination, with each Class I director having a term that expires at the Post-Combination Company's annual meeting of stockholders in 2021, each Class II director having a term that expires at the Post-Combination Company's annual meeting of stockholders in 2022 and each Class III director having a term that expires at the Post-Combination Company's annual meeting of stockholders in 2023, or, in each case, until their respective successors are duly elected and qualified, or until their earlier resignation, removal or death. The election of these directors is contingent upon approval of the Business Combination Proposal, the Charter Amendment Proposal, the Charter Approval Proposal, the Merger Issuance Proposal, the Subscription Agreements Proposal and the Incentive Plan Proposal.

        The Trine Board has nominated ,Ms. Grayson and Messrs. Knight and Wheeler to serve as the Class I directors, ,                ,Messrs. Hsieh, Immelt, Papa and Zuberi to serve as the Class II directors and ,                 ,Messrs. Fulop, Hindery and Nigro to serve as the Class III directors. The following sets forth information regarding each nominee:

        Ric Fulop.    Mr. Fulop has served as the Chief Executive Officer of Desktop Metal since the incorporation of Desktop Metal in 2015. Prior to the founding of Desktop Metal, Mr. Fulop was a general partner at North Bridge Venture Partners from 2010 to 2015 and served as a Founder of A123 Systems, Inc. from 2001 to 2010. Mr. Fulop currently serves on the board of governors of World Economic Forum Advanced Manufacturing Initiative (non profit). Mr. Fulop holds an M.B.A. from the MIT Sloan School of Management.

        Dayna Grayson.    Ms. Grayson has served as a member of Desktop Metal's Board of Directors since October 2015. Ms. Grayson is a Managing Partner of Construct Capital, a venture capital firm she co-founded in 2020. Prior to that, Ms. Grayson served as a Partner of New Enterprise Associates from 2012 to 2020. Ms. Grayson currently serves on the board of directors of numerous private companies. Ms. Grayson holds an M.S. from the University of Virginia and an M.B.A from Harvard Business School. We believe Ms. Grayson is qualified to serve on the Post-Combination Company's Board due to her extensive experience in identifying, investing in and building next-generation technologies and companies.

        Leo Hindery, Jr.    Mr. Hindery has served as the Chairman and CEO of Trine since its incorporation. In January 1988, Mr. Hindery isfounded, and ran as Managing Partner, of InterMedia Partners, a series of media industry investment funds he founded in 1988 and ran untilfunds. In February 1997, when he was named President and CEO of TCI,Tele-Communications, Inc. (TCI), then along with its affiliate Liberty Media, the world's largest combined cable television system operator and programming entity.operator. In March 1999, TCI merged into AT&T and heMr. Hindery became President and CEO of AT&T Broadband. In November 1999, heMr. Hindery was named Chairman and CEO of GlobalCenter Inc., a major Internet services company which fourteen months later merged into Exodus Communications, Inc. Following this merger, until October 2004, he was the founding Chairman and CEO of The YES Network, the regional television home of the New York Yankees, after which he reconstituted and ran InterMedia Partners. A memberPartners until the founding of the Cable Industry Hall of Fame andTrine. Mr. Hindery, formerly Chairman of the National Cable Television Association and of C-SPAN, Mr. Hindery has been recognized as one of the cable industry's "25 Most Influential Executives Over the Past 25 Years" and one of the "30 Individuals with the Most Significant Impact on Cable's Early History." He is a member of the Council on Foreign Relations a Trustee of Emerson College, and a Director of Common Cause New York, of Hemisphere Media Group, Inc. and of Fitness Anywhere, LLC. HeMr. Hindery has an MBA from the Stanford University Graduate School of Business and received an undergraduate degree from Seattle


Table of Contents

the Stanford Graduate School of Business and a BA from Seattle University. Mr. Hindery is well-qualified to serve on the Post-Combination Company's Board due to his extensive industry and board experience.

        Wen Hsieh.    Mr. Hsieh has served as a member of Desktop Metal's Board of Directors since April 2016. Mr. Hsieh serves as General Partner of Kleiner Perkins Caufield & Byers, a venture capital firm he joined in 2006. Mr. Hsieh currently serves on the board of directors of numerous private companies. Mr. Hsieh holds a B.S., M.S. and Ph.D. from California Institute of Technology. We believe Mr. Hsieh is qualified to serve on the Post-Combination Company's Board due to his extensive experience in identifying, investing in and building next-generation technologies and companies.

        Jeff Immelt.    Mr. Immelt has served as a member of Desktop Metal's Board of Directors since June 2018. Mr. Immelt serves as Venture Partner at New Enterprise Associates, a venture capital firm he joined in 2018. Mr. Immelt previously served as Chief Executive Officer of General Electronic Co. and in various other roles with General Electronic Co. from 2001 to 2017. Mr. Immelt currently serves on the boards of directors at Twilio Inc. and Bloom Energy Corp., in addition to numerous private companies. Mr. Immelt holds a B.A. from Dartmouth College and an M.B.A from Harvard Business School. We believe Mr. Immelt is qualified to serve on the Post-Combination Company's Board due to his extensive leadership and management history as the chief executive officer of a Fortune 500 company and his experience as a director of numerous public and private companies, together with his background in public company governance.

        Gary Johnson.    Mr. Johnson has served as a member of Desktop Metal's Board of Directors since February 2020. Mr. Johnson serves as the Chief Manufacturing and Labor Affairs Officer at Ford Motor Company, an automotive company he joined in 1986. He holds a B.B.A in Manufacturing Operations from Central Michigan University. Mr. Johnson is qualified to serve on the Post-Combination Company's Board due to his expertise in advanced manufacturing, operations, and management and his extensive leadership experience in the automotive industry.

        Byron Knight.    Mr. Knight has served as a member of Desktop Metal's Board of Directors since January 2019. Mr. Knight serves as Managing Director of Koch Disruptive Technologies, LLC, a subsidiary and the venture capital arm of Koch Industries, Inc., which he joined in March 2018. Mr. Knight previously worked at Georgia-Pacific, LLC as Vice President, eCommerce from 2016 to 2018 and as General Partner, Emerging Business from 2014 to 2016. Mr. Knight serves on the board of directors of numerous private companies. Mr. Knight holds a B.S. from Georgia Institute of Technology. We believe Mr. Knight is qualified to serve on the Post-Combination Company's Board due to his extensive management history and experience in identifying and investing in manufacturing and logistics technologies and companies.

        Stephen Nigro.    Mr. Nigro is joining the Post-Combination Company's Board of Directors in connection with the closing of the Business Combination. Mr. Nigro has served as a consultant to Desktop Metal since August 2020. He most recently served as President, 3D Printing at HP, Inc., an information technology and services company, from 2015 until 2019. Mr. Nigro previously served as the Senior Vice President of HP, Inc.'s Imaging & Printing business leading a global $21 billion business. He has over 38 years of experience starting new businesses and running large at-scale global businesses. Currently Mr. Nigro serves on the board of directors of Kornit Digital Ltd. Mr. Nigro holds a B.S. from University of California Santa Barbara and an M.S. from Stanford University. We believe Mr. Nigro is qualified to serve on the Post-Combination Company's Board due to his extensive management history and his leadership experience in the additive manufacturing industry.

        Steve Papa.    Mr. Papa has served as a member of Desktop Metal's Board of Directors since June 2016. Mr. Papa serves as the chief executive officer of Parallel Wireless, a company he founded in 2012. Mr. Papa serves on the board of directors of numerous private companies. Mr. Papa holds a B.S. from


Table of Contents

Princeton University and an M.B.A. from Harvard Business School. We believe Mr. Papa is qualified to serve on the Post-Combination Company's Board due to his extensive management history as the founder and chief executive officer of multiple companies and his experience in identifying, investing in and building next-generation technologies and companies.

        Andy Wheeler.    Mr. Wheeler has served as a member of Desktop Metal's Board of Directors since November 2016. Mr. Wheeler serves as general partner of GV, a venture capital firm he joined in 2012. Mr. Wheeler currently serves on the board of directors of numerous private companies. Mr. Wheeler


Table of Contents

holds an S.B. and M.Eng. from MIT. We believe Mr. Wheeler is qualified to serve on the Post-Combination Company's Board due to his extensive management history as the chief technology officer of multiple companies and his experience in identifying, investing in and building next-generation technologies and companies.

        Bilal Zuberi.    Mr. Zuberi has served as a member of Desktop Metal's Board of Directors since April 2016. Mr. Zuberi serves as a partner at Lux Capital, a venture capital firm he joined in 2013. Mr. Zuberi currently serves on the board of directors of numerous private companies Mr. Zuberi holds a B.S. from The College of Wooster and a Ph.D. from MIT. We believe Mr. Zuberi is qualified to serve on the Post-Combination Company's Board due to his extensive experience in identifying, investing in and building next-generation technologies and companies.

Vote Required for Approval

        If a quorum is present, directors are elected by a plurality of the votes cast by the stockholders present in person (which would include presence at a virtual meeting) or represented by proxy at the Special Meeting. This means that the 1110 director nominees who receive the most affirmative votes will be elected. Votes marked "FOR" a nominee will be counted in favor of that nominee. Proxies will have full discretion to cast votes for other persons in the event any nominee is unable to serve. Failure to vote by proxy or to vote in person (which would include presence at a virtual meeting) at the Special Meeting, abstentions and broker non-votes will have no effect on the vote.

        The Business Combination is not conditioned upon the approval of the Director Election Proposal. Notwithstanding the approval of each of the 1110 director nominees to the Board in the Director Election Proposal, if the Business Combination is not consummated for any reason, the actions contemplated by the Director Election Proposal will not be effected.

        The Sponsor and Trine's directors and officers have agreed to vote the Founder Shares and any Public Shares owned by them in favor of the Director Election Proposal. See "Other Agreements—Sponsor Agreement" for more information.

Recommendation of the Board of Directors

        THE TRINE BOARD OF DIRECTORS UNANIMOUSLY RECOMMENDS THAT THE TRINE STOCKHOLDERS VOTE "FOR" THE ELECTION OF EACH OF THE 1110 DIRECTOR NOMINEES TO THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS IN THE DIRECTOR ELECTION PROPOSAL.


Table of Contents


PROPOSAL NO. 6—THE MERGER ISSUANCE PROPOSAL

Overview

        In connection with the Business Combination, we intend to effect the issuance of shares of Class A common stock to the holders of Desktop Metal's capital stock pursuant to the Merger Agreement.

        The terms of the Merger Agreement are complex and only briefly summarized above. For further information, please see the full text of the Merger Agreement, which is attached as Annex A hereto. The discussion herein is qualified in its entirety by reference to the Merger Agreement.

Why Trine Needs Stockholder Approval

        We are seeking stockholder approval in order to comply with Rule 312.03 of the NYSE Listed Company Manual.

        Under Rule 312.03 of the NYSE Listed Company Manual, stockholder approval is required prior to the issuance of shares of common stock in certain circumstances, including if the number of shares of common stock to be issued is, or will be upon issuance, equal to or in excess of 20% of the number of shares of common stock outstanding before the issuance. The maximum aggregate number of shares of common stock issuable pursuant to the Merger Agreement represents greater than 20% of the number of shares of common stock before such issuance. As a result, stockholder approval of the issuance of shares of Class A common stock issuable pursuant to the Merger Agreement is required under the NYSE regulations.

Vote Required for Approval

        If the Business Combination Proposal is not approved, the Merger Issuance Proposal will not be presented at the Special Meeting. The approval of the Merger Issuance Proposal requires the majority of the votes cast by the stockholders present in person (which would include presence at a virtual meeting) or represented by proxy at the Special Meeting.

        Failure to vote by proxy or to vote in person (which would include presence at a virtual meeting) at the Special Meeting, abstentions and broker non-votes will have no effect on the Merger Issuance Proposal.

        The Business Combination is conditioned upon the approval of the Merger Issuance Proposal, subject to the terms of the Merger Agreement. Notwithstanding the approval of the Merger Issuance Proposal, if the Business Combination is not consummated for any reason, the actions contemplated by the Merger Issuance Proposal will not be effected.

        The Sponsor and Trine's directors and officers have agreed to vote the Founder Shares and any Public Shares owned by them in favor of the Merger Issuance Proposal. See "Other Agreements—Sponsor Agreement" for more information.

Recommendation of the Board of Directors

        THE TRINE BOARD OF DIRECTORS UNANIMOUSLY RECOMMENDS THAT THE TRINE STOCKHOLDERS VOTE "FOR" THE APPROVAL OF THE MERGER ISSUANCE PROPOSAL.


Table of Contents


PROPOSAL NO. 7—THE SUBSCRIPTION AGREEMENTS PROPOSAL

Overview

        In connection with the Business Combination, Trine intends to effect the issuance and sale of an aggregate of 27,497,500 shares of Class A common stock at $10.00 per share to certain investors pursuant to the Subscription Agreements.

Why Trine Needs Stockholder Approval

        We are seeking stockholder approval in order to comply with Rule 312.03 of the NYSE Listed Company Manual.

        Under Rule 312.03 of the NYSE Listed Company Manual, stockholder approval is required prior to the issuance of shares of common stock in certain circumstances, including if the number of shares of common stock to be issued is, or will be upon issuance, equal to or in excess of 20% of the number of shares of common stock outstanding before the issuance. The maximum aggregate number of shares of common stock issuable pursuant to the Subscription Agreements represents greater than 20% of the number of shares of common stock before such issuance. As a result, stockholder approval of the issuance of shares of Class A common stock issuable pursuant to the Subscription Agreements is required under the NYSE regulations.

Vote Required for Approval

        If the Business Combination Proposal is not approved, the Subscription Agreements Proposal will not be presented at the Special Meeting. The approval of the Subscription Agreements Proposal requires the majority of the votes cast by the stockholders present in person (which would include presence at a virtual meeting) or represented by proxy at the Special Meeting.

        Failure to vote by proxy or to vote in person (which would include presence at a virtual meeting) at the Special Meeting, abstentions and broker non-votes will have no effect on the Subscription Agreements Proposal.

        The Business Combination is conditioned upon the approval of the Subscription Agreements Proposal, subject to the terms of the Merger Agreement. Notwithstanding the approval of the Subscription Agreements Proposal, if the Business Combination is not consummated for any reason, the actions contemplated by the Subscription Agreements Proposal will not be effected.

        The Sponsor and Trine's directors and officers have agreed to vote the Founder Shares and any Public Shares owned by them in favor of the Subscription Agreements Proposal. See "Other Agreements—Sponsor Agreement" for more information.

Recommendation of the Board of Directors

        THE TRINE BOARD OF DIRECTORS UNANIMOUSLY RECOMMENDS THAT THE TRINE STOCKHOLDERS VOTE "FOR" THE APPROVAL OF THE SUBSCRIPTION AGREEMENTS PROPOSAL.


Table of Contents


PROPOSAL NO. 8—THE INCENTIVE PLAN PROPOSAL

Overview

        The Trine Board expects to approve the Desktop Metal, Inc. 2020 Incentive Award Plan (the "Incentive Plan") and adopt the Incentive Plan, effective as of the closing of the Business Combination, subject to the approval of our stockholders. The Incentive Plan will provide for the grant of stock options, stock appreciation rights, restricted stock, restricted stock units, and other stock or cash based awards. Directors, officers and other employees of the Post-Combination Company and its subsidiaries, as well as others performing consulting or advisory services for Trine, will be eligible for grants under the Incentive Plan. Trine anticipates that the initial share reserve to be authorized under the Incentive Plan should be sufficient for multiple years of future awards. We are seeking stockholder approval of the Incentive Plan (i) in order for incentive stock options to meet the requirements of the Code and (ii) in order to comply with the NYSE Listing Rules. As of September 8, 2020, the latest practicable date, the closing price on the NYSE per share of Class A common stock was $11.39.

        The purpose of the Incentive Plan is to enhance the Post-Combination Company's ability to attract, retain and motivate persons who make (or are expected to make) important contributions to the Post-Combination Company by providing these individuals with equity ownership opportunities. We believe that the Incentive Plan is essential to our success. Equity awards are intended to motivate high levels of performance and align the interests of our directors, employees and consultants with those of our stockholders by giving directors, employees and consultants an equity stake in the Post-Combination Company and providing a means of recognizing their contributions to the success of the Post-Combination Company. The Trine Board and management believe that equity awards are necessary to remain competitive in our industry and are essential to recruiting and retaining the highly qualified employees who help the Post-Combination Company meet its goals.

        If approved by our stockholders, the Incentive Plan will become effective upon the consummation of the Business Combination.

Summary of the Incentive Plan

        Set forth below is a summary of the material terms of the Incentive Plan. This summary is qualified in its entirety by reference to the complete text of the Incentive Plan, a copy of which is attached to this proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus as Annex D. We urge our stockholders to read carefully the entire Incentive Plan before voting on this proposal.

Administration

        The Incentive Plan will be administered by the Board, which may delegate its duties and responsibilities to one or more committees of its directors and/or officers of the Post-Combination Company (referred to collectively as the plan administrator below), subject to the limitations imposed under the Incentive Plan, Section 16 of the Exchange Act, stock exchange rules and other applicable laws. The plan administrator will have the authority to take all actions and make all determinations under the Incentive Plan, to interpret the Incentive Plan and award agreements and to adopt, amend and repeal rules for the administration of the Incentive Plan as it deems advisable. The plan administrator will also have the authority to determine which eligible service providers receive awards, grant awards and set the terms and conditions of all awards under the Incentive Plan, including any vesting and vesting acceleration provisions, subject to the conditions and limitations in the Incentive Plan.


Table of Contents

Award Limits

        The number of shares of common stock initially available for issuance under the Incentive Plan will equal the sum of (i)                   shares of common stock, (ii) the number of shares available for


Table of Contents

future grants under the Desktop Metal, Inc. 2015 Stock Incentive Plan and the Make Composites, Inc. 2018 Equity Incentive Plan (together, the "Prior Plans"), and (iii) any shares which, as of immediately prior to approval of the Incentive Plan by Trine's stockholders, are subject to awards granted under the Prior Plans that are forfeited or lapse unexercised and which following the date of the Special Meeting are not issued under the Prior Plans. The number of shares initially available for issuance will be increased by an annual increase on January 1 of each calendar year beginning in 2021 and ending in and including 2030, equal to the lesser of (A) 5% of the shares of common stock outstanding on the final day of the immediately preceding calendar year and (B) a smaller number of shares determined by the Trine Board. No more than                shares of common stock may be issued under the Incentive Plan upon the exercise of incentive stock options. Shares issued under the Incentive Plan may be authorized but unissued shares, shares purchased in the open market or treasury shares. The Incentive Plan also includes annual limits on awards that may be granted to non-employee directors. The maximum aggregate grant date fair value, as determined in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 718 (or any successor thereto), of awards granted to a non-employee director for services as a director under the Incentive Plan during any fiscal year may not exceed $1,000,000 in the fiscal year of the non-employee director's initial service, and $750,000 in any other fiscal year. The plan administrator may, however, make exceptions to such limits in extraordinary circumstances, subject to the limitations in the Incentive Plan.

Share Counting Provisions

        If an award under the Incentive Plan or a Prior Plan is terminated, expires or lapses or is exchanged for cash, surrendered, repurchased, cancelled without having been fully exercised or forfeited, in any case, in a manner that results in Trine acquiring shares covered by the award at a price not greater than the price (as adjusted to reflect any equity restructuring) paid by the participant for the shares or not issuing any shares covered by the award, the unused shares covered by the award will, as applicable, become or again be available for award grants under the Incentive Plan. Shares delivered by a participant to satisfy the applicable exercise or purchase price of an award granted under the Incentive Plan or a Prior Plan and/or to satisfy any applicable tax withholding obligation will, as applicable, become or again be available for award grants under the Incentive Plan. Dividend equivalents paid in cash will not be counted against the number of shares reserved under the Incentive Plan.

        Awards granted under the Incentive Plan in substitution for any options or other stock or stock based awards granted by an entity before the entity's merger or consolidation with Trine (or any of its subsidiaries) or Trine's (or any of its subsidiaries') acquisition of the entity's property or stock will not reduce the shares available for grant under the Incentive Plan, but will count against the maximum number of shares that may be issued upon the exercise of incentive stock options.

Eligibility

        Employees, consultants and non-employee directors of the Post-Combination Company or any of its subsidiaries (as defined in the Incentive Plan) will be eligible to participate in the Incentive Plan. Following the Business Combination, the Post-Combination Company and its subsidiaries are expected to have approximately                 employees,                consultants and                non-employee directors who will be eligible to receive awards under the Incentive Plan.


Table of Contents

Types of Awards

        The Incentive Plan provides for the grant of stock options, including incentive stock options and nonqualified stock options, stock appreciation rights, restricted stock, restricted stock units, and other stock or cash based awards. Certain awards under the Incentive Plan may constitute or provide for a deferral of compensation, subject to Section 409A of the Code, which may impose additional requirements on the terms and conditions of such awards. All awards under the Incentive Plan will be


Table of Contents

set forth in award agreements, which will detail the terms and conditions of awards, including any applicable vesting and payment terms and post-termination exercise limitations. A brief description of each award type follows.

    Stock Options and Stock Appreciation Rights ("SARs").  Stock options provide for the purchase of shares of common stock in the future at an exercise price set on the grant date. Incentive stock options, by contrast to nonqualified stock options, may provide tax deferral beyond exercise and favorable capital gains tax treatment to their holders if certain holding periods and other requirements of the Code are satisfied. SARs entitle their holder, upon exercise, to receive an amount equal to the appreciation of the shares subject to the award between the grant date and the exercise date. The plan administrator will determine the number of shares covered by each option and SAR, the exercise price of each option and SAR and the conditions and limitations applicable to the exercise of each option and SAR. The exercise price of a stock option or SAR will not be less than 100% of the fair market value of the underlying share on the grant date, unless otherwise determined by the plan administrator and except with respect to certain substitute awards granted in connection with a corporate transaction. Unless otherwise determined by the plan administrator, the term of a stock option or SAR may not be longer than ten years. Notwithstanding the foregoing, ISOs granted to certain significant stockholders will have an exercise price no less than 110% of the fair market value of the underlying shares on the grant date and a term no longer than five years.

    Restricted Stock.  Restricted stock is an award of nontransferable shares of common stock that remain forfeitable unless and until specified conditions are met and which may be subject to a purchase price. Upon issuance of restricted stock, recipients generally have the rights of a stockholder with respect to such shares, which generally include voting rights in such shares and the right to receive dividends and other distributions in relation to the award; however, dividends may be paid with respect to restricted stock only to the extent the vesting conditions have been satisfied and the restricted stock vests. The terms and conditions applicable to restricted stock will be determined by the plan administrator, subject to the conditions and limitations contained in the Incentive Plan.

    Restricted Stock Units ("RSUs").  RSUs are contractual promises to deliver shares of common stock in the future, which may also remain forfeitable unless and until specified conditions are met and may be accompanied by the right to receive the equivalent value of dividends paid on shares of common stock prior to the delivery of the underlying shares. The plan administrator may provide that the delivery of the shares underlying RSUs will be deferred on a mandatory basis or at the election of the participant. The terms and conditions applicable to RSUs will be determined by the plan administrator, subject to the conditions and limitations contained in the Incentive Plan.

    Other Stock or Cash Based Awards.  Other stock or cash based awards are awards of cash, fully vested shares of common stock and other awards valued wholly or partially by referring to, or otherwise based on, shares of common stock or other property. Other stock or cash based awards may be granted to participants and may also be available as a payment form in the settlement of other awards, as standalone payments and as payment in lieu of compensation to which a participant is otherwise entitled. The plan administrator will determine the terms and

Table of Contents

      conditions of other stock or cash based awards, which may include any purchase price, performance goal, transfer restrictions, vesting conditions and payment terms.

Performance Criteria

        The plan administrator may select performance criteria for an award to establish performance goals for a performance period. Performance criteria under the Incentive Plan may include, but will not be limited to, the following: net earnings or losses (either before or after one or more of interest, taxes,


Table of Contents

depreciation, amortization, and non-cash equity-based compensation expense); gross or net sales or revenue or sales or revenue growth; net income (either before or after taxes) or adjusted net income; profits (including but not limited to gross profits, net profits, profit growth, net operation profit or economic profit), profit return ratios or operating margin; budget or operating earnings (either before or after taxes or before or after allocation of corporate overhead and bonus); cash flow (including operating cash flow and free cash flow or cash flow return on capital); return on assets; return on capital or invested capital; cost of capital; return on stockholders' equity; total stockholder return; return on sales; costs, reductions in costs and cost control measures; expenses; working capital; earnings or loss per share; adjusted earnings or loss per share; price per share or dividends per share (or appreciation in or maintenance of such price or dividends); regulatory achievements or compliance; implementation, completion or attainment of objectives relating to research, development, regulatory, commercial, or strategic milestones or developments; market share; economic value or economic value added models; division, group or corporate financial goals; customer satisfaction/growth; customer service; employee satisfaction; recruitment and maintenance of personnel; human resources management; supervision of litigation and other legal matters; strategic partnerships and transactions; financial ratios (including those measuring liquidity, activity, profitability or leverage); debt levels or reductions; sales-related goals; financing and other capital raising transactions; cash on hand; acquisition activity; investment sourcing activity; and marketing initiatives, any of which may be measured in absolute terms or as compared to any incremental increase or decrease. Such performance goals also may be based solely by reference to the company's performance or the performance of a subsidiary, division, business segment or business unit of the company or a subsidiary, or based upon performance relative to performance of other companies or upon comparisons of any of the indicators of performance relative to performance of other companies. When determining performance goals, the plan administrator may provide for exclusion of the impact of an event or occurrence which the plan administrator determines should appropriately be excluded, including, without limitation, non-recurring charges or events, acquisitions or divestitures, changes in the corporate or capital structure, events unrelated to the business or outside of the control of management, foreign exchange considerations, and legal, regulatory, tax or accounting changes.

Change in Control and Certain Other Transactions

        In connection with certain corporate transactions and events affecting the common stock, including a change in control, or change in any applicable laws or accounting principles, the plan administrator has broad discretion to take action under the Incentive Plan to prevent the dilution or enlargement of intended benefits, facilitate the transaction or event or give effect to the change in applicable laws or accounting principles. This includes canceling awards for cash or property, accelerating the vesting of awards, providing for the assumption or substitution of awards by a successor entity, adjusting the number and type of shares subject to outstanding awards and/or with respect to which awards may be granted under the Incentive Plan and replacing or terminating awards under the Incentive Plan. In addition, in the event of certain non-reciprocal transactions with stockholders, the plan administrator will make equitable adjustments to the Incentive Plan and outstanding awards as it deems appropriate to reflect the transaction.


Table of Contents

Amendment and Termination

        The administrator may amend, suspend or terminate the Incentive Plan at any time. However, no amendment, other than an amendment that increases the number of shares available under the Incentive Plan, may materially and adversely affect an award outstanding under the Incentive Plan without the consent of the affected participant. The Board is required to obtain stockholder approval for any amendment to the Incentive Plan to the extent necessary to comply with applicable laws. Further, the plan administrator cannot, without the approval of stockholders, amend any outstanding stock option or SAR to reduce its price per share. The Incentive Plan will remain in effect until the tenth anniversary of the earlier of (i) the date the Trine Board adopted the Incentive Plan and (ii) the


Table of Contents

date the stockholders approve the Incentive Plan, unless earlier terminated by the Trine Board. No awards may be granted under the Incentive Plan after its termination.

Foreign Participants, Claw-back Provisions, Transferability and Participant Payments

        The plan administrator may modify awards granted to participants who are foreign nationals or employed outside the United States or establish subplans or procedures to address differences in laws, rules, regulations or customs of such foreign jurisdictions. All awards will be subject to any company claw-back policy as set forth in such claw-back policy or the applicable award agreement. Except as the plan administrator may determine or provide in an award agreement, awards under the Incentive Plan are generally non-transferrable, except by will or the laws of descent and distribution, or, subject to the plan administrator's consent, pursuant to a domestic relations order, and are generally exercisable only by the participant. With regard to tax withholding obligations arising in connection with awards under the Incentive Plan, and exercise price obligations arising in connection with the exercise of stock options under the Incentive Plan, the plan administrator may, in its discretion, accept cash, wire transfer or check, shares of common stock that meet specified conditions, a promissory note, a "market sell order," such other consideration as the plan administrator deems suitable or any combination of the foregoing.

United States Federal Income Tax Consequences

        The following summary is based on an analysis of the Code as currently in effect, existing laws, judicial decisions, administrative rulings, regulations and proposed regulations, all of which are subject to change. Moreover, the following is only a summary of United States federal income tax consequences. Actual tax consequences to participants in the Incentive Plan may be either more or less favorable than those described below depending on the participants' particular circumstances. State and local tax consequences may in some cases differ from the U.S. federal income tax consequences. The following summary of the income tax consequences in respect of the Incentive Plan is for general information only. Interested parties should consult their own advisors as to the specific tax consequences of their awards, including the applicability and effect of state, local and foreign laws.

Incentive Stock Options

        No income will be recognized by a participant for United States federal income tax purposes upon the grant or exercise of an incentive stock option under the Incentive Plan. The basis of shares transferred to a participant upon exercise of an incentive stock option is the price paid for the shares. If the participant holds the shares for at least one year after the transfer of the shares to the participant and two years after the grant of the option, the participant generally will recognize capital gain or loss upon sale of the shares received upon exercise equal to the difference between the amount realized on the sale and the basis of the stock. Generally, if the shares are not held for that period, the participant will recognize ordinary income upon disposition in an amount equal to the excess of the fair market value of the shares on the date of exercise over the amount paid for the shares, or if less (and if the disposition is a transaction in which loss, if any, will be recognized), the gain on disposition. Any


Table of Contents

additional gain realized by the participant upon the disposition will be a capital gain. The excess of the fair market value of shares received upon the exercise of an incentive stock option over the option price for the shares is an item of adjustment for the participant for purposes of the alternative minimum tax. Therefore, although no income is recognized upon exercise of an incentive stock option, a participant may be subject to alternative minimum tax as a result of the exercise.

Non-qualified Stock Options

        No income is expected to be recognized by a participant for United States federal income tax purposes upon the grant of a non-qualified stock option. Upon exercise of a non-qualified stock option, the participant will recognize ordinary income in an amount equal to the excess of the fair market


Table of Contents

value of the shares on the date of exercise over the amount paid for the shares. Income recognized upon the exercise of a non-qualified stock option will be considered compensation subject to withholding at the time the income is recognized, and, therefore, the participant's employer must make the necessary arrangements with the participant to ensure that the amount of the tax required to be withheld is available for payment. Non-qualified stock options are designed to provide the employer with a deduction equal to the amount of ordinary income recognized by the participant at the time of the recognition by the participant, subject to the deduction limitations described below.

Stock Appreciation Rights

        There is expected to be no United States federal income tax consequences to either the participant or the employer upon the grant of SARs. Generally, the participant will recognize ordinary income subject to withholding upon the receipt of payment pursuant to SARs in an amount equal to the aggregate amount of cash and the fair market value of any common stock received. Subject to the deduction limitations described below, the employer generally will be entitled to a corresponding tax deduction equal to the amount includible in the participant's income.

Restricted Stock

        If the restrictions on an award of shares of restricted stock are of a nature that the shares are both subject to a substantial risk of forfeiture and are not freely transferable (within the meaning of Section 83 of the Code), the participant will not recognize income for United States federal income tax purposes at the time of the award unless the participant affirmatively elects to include the fair market value of the shares of restricted stock on the date of the award, less any amount paid for the shares, in gross income for the year of the award pursuant to Section 83(b) of the Code. In the absence of this election, the participant will be required to include in income for United States federal income tax purposes on the date the shares either become freely transferable or are no longer subject to a substantial risk of forfeiture (within the meaning of Section 83 of the Code), the fair market value of the shares of restricted stock on such date, less any amount paid for the shares. The employer will be entitled to a deduction at the time of income recognition to the participant in an amount equal to the amount the participant is required to include in income with respect to the shares, subject to the deduction limitations described below. If a Section 83(b) election is made within 30 days after the date the restricted stock is received, the participant will recognize ordinary income at the time of the receipt of the restricted stock, and the employer will be entitled to a corresponding deduction, equal to the fair market value of the shares at the time, less the amount paid, if any, by the participant for the restricted stock. If a Section 83(b) election is made, no additional income will be recognized by the participant upon the lapse of restrictions on the restricted stock, but, if the restricted stock is subsequently forfeited, the participant may not deduct the income that was recognized pursuant to the Section 83(b) election at the time of the receipt of the restricted stock.

        Dividends paid to a participant holding restricted stock before the expiration of the restriction period will be additional compensation taxable as ordinary income to the participant subject to


Table of Contents

withholding, unless the participant made an election under Section 83(b) of the Code. Subject to the deduction limitations described below, the employer generally will be entitled to a corresponding tax deduction equal to the dividends includible in the participant's income as compensation. If the participant has made a Section 83(b) election, the dividends will be dividend income, rather than additional compensation, to the participant.

        If the restrictions on an award of restricted stock are not of a nature that the shares are both subject to a substantial risk of forfeiture and not freely transferable, within the meaning of Section 83 of the Code, the participant will recognize ordinary income for United States federal income tax purposes at the time of the transfer of the shares in an amount equal to the fair market value of the shares of restricted stock on the date of the transfer, less any amount paid therefor. The employer will be entitled to a deduction at that time in an amount equal to the amount the participant is required to


Table of Contents

include in income with respect to the restricted shares, subject to the deduction limitations described below.

Restricted Stock Units

        There generally will be no United States federal income tax consequences to either the participant or the employer upon the grant of RSUs. Generally, the participant will recognize ordinary income subject to withholding upon the receipt of cash and/or transfer of shares of common stock in payment of the RSUs in an amount equal to the aggregate of the cash received and the fair market value of the common stock so transferred. Subject to the deduction limitations described below, the employer generally will be entitled to a corresponding tax deduction equal to the amount includible in the participant's income.

        Generally, a participant will recognize ordinary income subject to withholding upon the payment of any dividend equivalents paid with respect to an award in an amount equal to the cash and the fair market value of any common stock the participant receives. Subject to the deduction limitations described below, the employer generally will be entitled to a corresponding tax deduction equal to the amount includible in the participant's income.

Stock Awards

        If a participant receives a stock award in lieu of a cash payment that would otherwise have been made, the participant generally will be taxed as if the cash payment has been received, and the employer will have a deduction in the same amount.

Limitation on the Employer's Compensation Deduction

        Section 162(m) of the Code limits the deduction certain employers may take for otherwise deductible compensation payable to certain executive officers of the employer to the extent the compensation paid to such an officer for the year exceeds $1 million.

Excess Parachute Payments

        Section 280G of the Code limits the deduction that the employer may take for otherwise deductible compensation payable to certain individuals if the compensation constitutes an "excess parachute payment." Excess parachute payments arise from payments made to disqualified individuals that are in the nature of compensation and are contingent on changes in ownership or control of the employer or certain affiliates. Accelerated vesting or payment of awards under the Incentive Plan upon a change in ownership or control of the employer or its affiliates could result in excess parachute payments. In addition to the deduction limitation applicable to the employer, a disqualified individual receiving an excess parachute payment is subject to a 20% excise tax on the amount thereof.


Table of Contents

Application of Section 409A of the Code

        Section 409A of the Code imposes an additional 20% tax and interest on an individual receiving non-qualified deferred compensation under a plan that fails to satisfy certain requirements. For purposes of Section 409A, "non-qualified deferred compensation" includes equity-based incentive programs, including some stock options, stock appreciation rights and RSU programs. Generally speaking, Section 409A does not apply to incentive stock options, non-discounted non-qualified stock options and stock appreciation rights if no deferral is provided beyond exercise, or restricted stock.

        The awards made pursuant to the Incentive Plan are expected to be designed in a manner intended to comply with the requirements of Section 409A of the Code to the extent the awards granted under the Incentive Plan are not exempt from coverage. However, if the Incentive Plan fails to


Table of Contents

comply with Section 409A in operation, a participant could be subject to the additional taxes and interest.

        State, local and foreign tax consequences may in some cases differ from the United States federal income tax consequences described above. The foregoing summary of the United States federal income tax consequences in respect of the Incentive Plan is for general information only. Interested parties should consult their own advisors as to specific tax consequences of their awards.

        The Incentive Plan is not subject to the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, as amended, and is not intended to be qualified under Section 401(a) of the Code.

New Plan Benefits

        Grants under the Incentive Plan will be made at the discretion of the plan administrator and are not currently determinable. The value of the awards granted under the Incentive Plan will depend on a number of factors, including the fair market value of the common stock on future dates, the exercise decisions made by the participants and the extent to which any applicable performance goals necessary for vesting or payment are achieved.

Interests of Certain Persons in this Proposal

        Trine's directors and executive officers may be considered to have an interest in the approval of the Incentive Plan because they may in the future receive awards under the Incentive Plan. Nevertheless, the Trine Board believes that it is important to provide incentives and rewards for superior performance and the retention of executive officers and experienced directors by adopting the Incentive Plan.

Vote Required for Approval

        If the Business Combination Proposal is not approved, the Incentive Plan Proposal will not be presented at the Special Meeting. The approval of the Incentive Plan Proposal requires the majority of the votes cast by the stockholders present in person (which would include presence at a virtual meeting) or represented by proxy at the Special Meeting.

        Failure to vote by proxy or to vote in person (which would include presence at a virtual meeting) at the Special Meeting, abstentions and broker non-votes will have no effect on the Incentive Plan Proposal.

        The Business Combination is conditioned upon the approval of the Incentive Plan Proposal, subject to the terms of the Merger Agreement. Notwithstanding the approval of the Incentive Plan Proposal, if the Business Combination is not consummated for any reason, the actions contemplated by the Incentive Plan Proposal will not be effected.


Table of Contents

        The Sponsor and Trine's directors and officers have agreed to vote the Founder Shares and any Public Shares owned by them in favor of the Incentive Plan Proposal. See "Other Agreements—Sponsor Agreement" for more information.

Recommendation of the Board of Directors

        THE TRINE BOARD OF DIRECTORS UNANIMOUSLY RECOMMENDS THAT THE TRINE STOCKHOLDERS VOTE "FOR" THE APPROVAL OF THE INCENTIVE PLAN PROPOSAL.


Table of Contents


PROPOSAL NO. 9—THE ADJOURNMENT PROPOSAL

        The Adjournment Proposal, if adopted, will allow the Trine Board to adjourn the Special Meeting to a later date or dates, if necessary, to permit further solicitation of proxies if, based upon the tabulated vote at the time of the Special Meeting, there are not sufficient votes to approve the Business Combination Proposal, the Charter Amendment Proposal, the Charter Approval Proposal, the Merger Issuance Proposal, the Subscription Agreements Proposal or the Incentive Plan Proposal, or we determine that one or more of the closing conditions under the Merger Agreement is not satisfied or waived. In no event will the Trine Board adjourn the Special Meeting or consummate the Business Combination beyond the date by which it may properly do so under the Existing Charter and Delaware law.

Consequences if the Adjournment Proposal is not Approved

        If the Adjournment Proposal is not approved by stockholders, the Trine Board may not be able to adjourn the Special Meeting to a later date in the event that there are insufficient votes for the approval of the Business Combination Proposal, the Charter Amendment Proposal, the Charter Approval Proposal, the Merger Issuance Proposal, the Subscription Agreements Proposal or the Incentive Plan Proposal, or we determine that one or more of the closing conditions under the Merger Agreement is not satisfied or waived. If Trine does not consummate the Business Combination and fails to complete an initial business combination within the Completion Window (subject to the requirements of law), Trine will be required to dissolve and liquidate its trust account by returning the then remaining funds in such account to its public stockholders.

Vote Required for Approval

        The approval of the Adjournment Proposal requires the majority of the votes cast by the stockholders present in person (which would include presence at a virtual meeting) or represented by proxy at the Special Meeting.

        Failure to vote by proxy or to vote in person (which would include presence at a virtual meeting) at the Special Meeting, abstentions and broker non-votes will have no effect on the Adjournment Proposal.

        The Business Combination is not conditioned upon the approval of the Adjournment Proposal.

        The Sponsor and Trine's directors and officers have agreed to vote the Founder Shares and any Public Shares owned by them in favor of the Adjournment Proposal, if presented. See "Other Agreements—Sponsor Agreement" for more information.

Recommendation of the Board of Directors

        THE TRINE BOARD OF DIRECTORS UNANIMOUSLY RECOMMENDS THAT THE TRINE STOCKHOLDERS VOTE "FOR" THE APPROVAL OF THE ADJOURNMENT PROPOSAL.


Table of Contents


INFORMATION ABOUT TRINE

        In this section "we," "us" and "our" refer to Trine prior to the Business Combination and to the Post-Combination Company following the Business Combination.

Introduction

        We are a blank check company incorporated on September 26, 2018 as a Delaware corporation and formed for the purpose of effecting a merger, capital stock exchange, asset acquisition, stock purchase, reorganization or other similar business combination with one or more businesses, which is referred to as an "initial business combination". Our efforts to identify a prospective target business were not limited to any particular industry or geographic region. Prior to executing the Merger Agreement, our efforts were limited to organizational activities, completion of its initial public offering and the evaluation of possible business combinations. We have neither engaged in any operations nor generated any revenue to date. Based on our business activities, we are a "shell company" as defined under the Exchange Act because it has no operations and nominal assets consisting almost entirely of cash.

Company History

        In October 2018, Trine Sponsor LLC (the "Initial Sponsor") purchased 8,625,000 shares of Founder Shares for an aggregate purchase price of $25,000, or approximately $0.003 per share. On November 12, 2018, the Initial Sponsor transferred 25,000 Founder Shares to each of Ms. Linden and Messrs. Nathanson, Zuaiter and Sander in compensation for their services as independent directors of ours. In February 2019, the Initial Sponsor assigned 8,525,000 Founder Shares to the Sponsor. In February 2019, the Sponsor forfeited 1,437,500 Founder Shares and in March 2019, we effected a 1.044 for 1 stock dividend of the Founder Shares, resulting in 7,503,750 Founder Shares issued and outstanding. The foregoing issuance was made pursuant to the exemption from registration contained in Section 4(a)(2) of the Securities Act. The number of Founder Shares issued was determined based on the expectation that the Founder Shares would represent 20% of the outstanding shares of common stock upon completion of the Trine IPO.

        On March 19, 2019, we consummated the Trine IPO of 26,100,000 units, with each unit consisting of one share of Class A common stock and one half of one public warrant. Each whole public warrant entitles the holder thereof to purchase one share of Class A common stock at a price of $11.50 per share, subject to certain adjustments. The units were sold at a price of $10.00 per unit, generating gross proceeds to us of $261,000,000. We granted the underwriters in the Trine IPO (the "Underwriters") a 45-day option to purchase up to 3,915,000 additional units to cover over-allotments, if any. On March 29, 2019, the Underwriters exercised the over-allotment option in full and purchased an additional 3,915,000 units (the "over-allotment units"), generating gross proceeds of $39,150,000.

        Simultaneous with the consummation of the Trine IPO, we consummated the private placement of an aggregate of 7,720,000 private placement warrants to the Sponsor at a price of $1.00 per private placement warrant, generating total proceeds of $7,720,000. In connection with the Underwriters' exercise of their over-allotment option, the Sponsor purchased an additional 783,000 private placement warrants, generating gross proceeds to us of $783,000. Each whole private placement warrant entitles the holder thereof to purchase one share of Class A common stock at a price of $11.50 per share, subject to certain adjustments. Of the gross proceeds received from the Trine IPO and the private placement warrants, $300,150,000 was placed in the trust account (the "trust account").

        On April 29, 2019, we announced that, commencing May 3, 2019, holders of the units may elect to separately trade the shares of Class A common stock and the warrants included in the units. Those units not separated continued to trade on the NYSE under the symbol "TRNE.U" and the shares of Class A common stock and warrants that were separated trade under the symbols "TRNE" and


Table of Contents

"TRNE.WS," respectively. No fractional warrants were issued upon separation of the units and only whole warrants trade.

Redemption of Public Shares and Liquidation if no Initial Business Combination

        Our Existing Charter provides that we will have only 24 months from the closing of the Trine IPO to complete our initial business combination. If we are unable to complete our initial business combination within such 24-month period, we will: (i) cease all operations except for the purpose of winding up, (ii) as promptly as reasonably possible but not more than ten business days thereafter, redeem the Public Shares, at a per-share price, payable in cash, equal to the aggregate amount then on deposit in the trust account including interest earned on the funds held in the trust account and not previously released to us to pay our taxes (less up to $100,000 of interest to pay dissolution expenses), divided by the number of then outstanding Public Shares, which redemption will completely extinguish public stockholders' rights as stockholders (including the right to receive further liquidating distributions, if any), subject to applicable law, and (iii) as promptly as reasonably possible following such redemption, subject to the approval of our remaining stockholders and our board of directors, dissolve and liquidate, subject in each case to our obligations under Delaware law to provide for claims of creditors and the requirements of other applicable law. There will be no redemption rights or liquidating distributions with respect to our warrants, which will expire worthless if we fail to complete our initial business combination within the 24-month time period.

Voting Restrictions in Connection with the Special Meeting

        Pursuant to the terms of the Sponsor Agreement, the Sponsor and Trine's directors and officers have agreed to vote any Founder Shares held by them and any Public Shares purchased during or after the Trine IPO in favor of each of the proposals presented at the Special Meeting. See "Other Agreements—Sponsor Agreement" for more information. The Initial Stockholders own 20% of Trine's outstanding common stock entitled to vote thereon. The quorum and voting thresholds at the Special Meeting and the Sponsor Agreement may make it more likely that Trine will consummate the Business Combination.

Facilities

        We currently maintain our executive offices at 405 Lexington Avenue, 48th Floor, New York, NY 10174 and our telephone number is (212) 503-2855. Our executive offices are provided to us by the Sponsor. The cost for this space is included in the $35,000 per month fee that we pay to an affiliate of the Sponsor for office space, administrative and support services. We consider our current office space adequate for our current operations.

        Upon consummation of the Business Combination, the principal executive offices of Trine will be those of Desktop Metal, at which time nothing more will be paid to such affiliate of the Sponsor.

Employees

        We currently have 4 officers. These individuals are not obligated to devote any specific number of hours to our matters but they intend to devote as much of their time as they deem necessary to our affairs until we have completed our initial business combination. The amount of time they will devote in any time period will vary based on whether a target business has been selected for our initial business combination and the stage of the initial business combination process we are in. Aside from our Chief Financial Officer, we do not intend to have any full-time employees prior to the completion of our initial business combination.

Legal Proceedings

        There is no material litigation, arbitration or governmental proceeding currently pending against us or any members of our management team in their capacity as such.


Table of Contents


MANAGEMENT OF TRINE

        In this section "we," "us" and "our" refer to Trine prior to the Business Combination and to the Post-Combination Company following the Business Combination.

Directors and Executive Officers

        Trine's current directors and executive officers are as follows:

Name
 Age Title
Leo Hindery, Jr.   72 Chairman and Chief Executive Officer
M. Ian G. Gilchrist  7071 President and Director
Mark J. Coleman  61 Executive Vice President and General Counsel
Pierre M. Henry  31 Chief Financial Officer and Executive Vice President, Development
Josephine Linden  6768 Director
Marc Nathanson  7475 Director
Kent R. Sander  6667 Director
Tom Wasserman  45 Director
Abbas F. Zuaiter  5253 Director

    Leo Hindery, Jr., Chairman and Chief Executive Officer

        Leo Hindery, Jr. is our Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. In January 1988, Mr. Hindery founded, and ran as Managing Partner, of InterMedia Partners, a series of media industry investment funds he founded in 1988 and ran untilfunds. In February 1997, when he was named President and CEO of TCI,Tele-Communications, Inc. (TCI), then along with its affiliate Liberty Media, the world's largest combined cable television system operator and programming entity.operator. In March 1999, TCI merged into AT&T and heMr. Hindery became President and CEO of AT&T Broadband. In November 1999, heMr. Hindery was named Chairman and CEO of GlobalCenter Inc., a major Internet services company which fourteen months later merged into Exodus Communications, Inc. Following this merger, until October 2004, he was the founding Chairman and CEO of The YES Network, the regional television home of the New York Yankees, after which he reconstituted and ran InterMedia Partners. A memberPartners until the founding of the Cable Industry Hall of Fame andTrine. Mr. Hindery, formerly Chairman of the National Cable Television Association and of C-SPAN, Mr. Hindery has been recognized as one of the cable industry's "25 Most Influential Executives Over the Past 25 Years" and one of the "30 Individuals with the Most Significant Impact on Cable's Early History." He is a member of the Council on Foreign Relations a Trustee of Emerson College, and a Director of Common Cause New York, of Hemisphere Media Group, Inc. and of Fitness Anywhere, LLC. HeMr. Hindery has an MBA from the Stanford University Graduate School of Business and a BAreceived an undergraduate degree from Seattle University. Mr. Hindery is well-qualified to serve on our Board of Directors due to his extensive industry and board experience.

    M. Ian G. Gilchrist, President and Director

        M. Ian G. Gilchrist, our President and one of our directors, has been a Director of Liberty Media Corporation since July 2009. Previously, Mr. Gilchrist was a Managing Director of Salomon Brothers/Citigroup, CS First Boston and Blyth Eastman PaineWebber. He began his 30-year financial career as a securities investment analyst for Mutual of New York and as a TMT investment banker and venture capital professional for Warburg Paribas Becker. As a Board Member of Liberty Media, he serves as Chairman of the Compensation Committee and as a member of the Audit Committee and of the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee. He has been a Director of Qurate Retail Group (NASDAQ:QRTEA, QRTEB, formerly Liberty Interactive Corporation), a portfolio of retail brands including QVC, HSN and Zulily, since its inception on March 2018, where he serves as Chairman of the Audit Committee and as a member of the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee. Mr. Gilchrist is currently a member of the Yale University Development Council, the Yale University


Table of Contents

School of Architecture Dean's Council, and the Paul Rudolph Foundation's Board of Directors. He has an MBA from New York University and a BA from Yale University. Mr. Gilchrist is well-qualified to serve on our Board of Directors due to his extensive industry and board experience.

    Mark J. Coleman, Executive Vice President and General Counsel

        Mark J. Coleman, our Executive Vice President and General Counsel, is Senior Partner and General Counsel of InterMedia Advisors, LLC. Most recently, he has been an Executive Vice President and General Counsel of The YES Network, which he co-founded in June 2001. Prior to joining YES, Mr. Coleman was Executive Vice President and General Counsel at GlobalCenter Inc. since January 2000. Previously, from June 1998 to December 1999, Mr. Coleman was a Senior Partner at Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe LLP, prior to which he was a Partner at Pillsbury Madison & Sutro LLP, which he joined in 1984. Mr. Coleman has over 30 years of experience in the media industry and in private equity. Mr. Coleman has advised Leo Hindery, Jr. in every one of Mr. Hindery's initiatives and positions since January 1988 when InterMedia Partners, LP was formed. Mr. Coleman also serves on the board of directors TILT Holdings Inc. (CSE: TILT) and the board of trustees of the Queens Museum of Art. He has a JD from the University of California, Berkeley and a BA from Pomona College.

    Pierre M. Henry, Chief Financial Officer and Executive Vice President of Development

        Pierre M. Henry is our Chief Financial Officer and Executive Vice President of Development. Until September 2018, when he moved over to Trine, Pierre M. Henry was head of corporate development and investor relations at Hemisphere Media Group (NASDAQ:HMTV) the only publicly traded, pure-play U.S. media company targeting the high growth U.S. Hispanic and Latin American markets, with leading broadcast and cable television and digital content platforms Hemisphere was created as an operating company by InterMedia Partners, LP in 2006. Prior to Hemisphere, Mr. Henry was a Principal in the Tokyo and San Francisco offices of Rakuten (OTC:RKUNY), Japan's leading internet company with a $9 billion market cap. Reporting directly to CEO Hiroshi Mikitani, Mr. Henry built Rakuten's entertainment analytics division from the ground up and sourced and executed M&A deals for its media & communications division. Prior to Rakuten, he was a Vice President with Kylin Capital, a Chinese private equity group specializing in media & entertainment investments throughout Asia. Mr. Henry started his career as an entrepreneur in the film industry, creating a consulting company called Cinnabar Media. His clients included The Walt Disney Company, Lucasfilm, Sony Pictures, Paramount and CCTV. He has an MBA from the Stanford Graduate School of Business, an MPhil from Downing College, University of Cambridge, and a BA from the University of Chicago.

    Josephine Linden—Director

        Josephine Linden, one of our directors, is Founder and CEO of Linden Global Strategies, a wealth management advisory firm and multi-family office. She retired from Goldman Sachs as a partner and managing director in 2009, after being with the firm for over twenty-five years. Josephine serves on private and non-profit boards. She is the Chairman of Lands' End (NASDAQ: LE), and an Ambassadora member of the Advance Australia Global Advisory Board. She is a Trustee for the Collegiate School, and currently chairs its Financing Committee and sits on theits Executive Committee and theits Investment Committee. She was an Adjunct Professor at the Business School of Columbia University where she taught a class in wealth management, and she currently teaches and moderates ad hoc sessions. She is a member of the Council on Foreign Relations. She has an MBA from the University of Chicago and a BA from the University of Sydney. Ms. Linden is well-qualified to serve on our Board of Directors due to her extensive investment, wealth management and public company board experience.


Table of Contents

    Marc Nathanson—Director

        Marc Nathanson, one of our directors, is an entrepreneur and philanthropist. He is best known for his founding of Falcon Cable in 1975, which he sold in 1999 for $3.7 billion. He is a member of the Cable Industry Hall of Fame, former Chairman of the U.S. Broadcasting Board of Governors, and


Table of Contents

former Vice Chairman of Charter Communications. Mr. Nathanson invested the profits from the sale of Falcon Cable into his investment firms Mapleton Investments and Mapleton Properties, which have investments ranging from sports teams to real estate to water technology companies, including Falcon Waterfree Technologies which is the largest manufacturer of waterless urinals in the world. Mr. Nathanson is a member of the Council on Foreign Relations, and he is Vice Chairman of the National Democratic Institute, Co-chair of the Pacific Council and a Trustee of the Aspen Institute. According to the Milken Institute, "Nathanson is a recipient of Global Green's Millennium Award and the Environmental Media Association's Lifetime Achievement Award for his environmental work." He has an MA from the University of California, Santa Barbara and a BA from the University of Denver. Mr. Nathanson is well-qualified to serve on our Board of Directors due to his extensive industry and investment experience.

    Kent R. Sander—Director

        Kent R. Sander, one of our directors, is the Executive Chairman of the Board of OnePhone Holding AB, a wireless services and technology holding company, which he co-founded in 2007. Prior to that Mr. Sander was a senior Partner at Brainheart Capital, a VC fund specializing in wireless investments. Mr. Sander has more than 30 years' experience in executive positions in international telecom and high-tech IT companies. He served as the Chief Executive Officer for TruePosition, a provider of wireless location solutions, between 1997 and 2004 and Executive Vice President and General Manager for Ericsson (NASDAQ: ERIC), a Swedish multinational networking and telecommunications company, between 1990 and 1997. Over the last five years, Mr. Sander has been Chairman of the Board of the following public companies: Tobii Technology (STO:TOBII), an eye-tracking technology firm, MRG (STO: MRG) an I-gaming company, Serneke Group AB (STO:SRNKE-B), a Swedish construction and real-estate company, and as a director for Edgeware Technologies, a private cloud software solutions provider and I.A.R Systems, a private Swedish computer software company. He has also served on the advisory board for Samsung Electronics. Mr. Sander has an MBA from the University of Stockholm. He is well-qualified to serve on our Board of Directors due to his extensive industry and investment experience.

    Tom Wasserman—Director

        Tom Wasserman, one of our directors, iscurrently serves as a Managing Director at HPS Investment Partners, LLC where he heads the TMT growth equityGrowth Equity group. Mr. Wasserman has worked within TMT (including prior to his transition to HPS) since 1999. Mr. Wasserman's current board roles include serving as a director of BT One Phone Limited, OnePhone Holding AB, Revolt Media and TV Holdings, LLC, Ember Technologies, Inc., and CAST Holdings LLC. Mr. Wasserman recently served as Chairman of Hibernia Networks (sold to GTT Communications). Mr. Wasserman began his career at Donaldson, Lufkin and Jenrette in the investment banking division. He has a BA in Business Administration from the University of Michigan where he graduated with distinction. Mr. Wasserman is well-qualified to serve on our Board of Directors due to his extensive industry and investment experience.

    Abbas F. ("Eddy") Zuaiter—Director

        Abbas Zuaiter, one of our directors, is Co-FounderCo-Managing Member, CEO and Managing MemberCIO of Zuaiter Capital Holdings, LLC ("ZCH"), a private investment firm based in Greenwich, CT-based private family investment office established in 2013.Connecticut. Mr. Zuaiter serves as a Member of the Board of Directors of the Arab Bank plc, Ossia Inc. and The Capital


Table of Contents

Holdings Funds plc; and as a Member of the Board of Advisors of iMENA Group which operates onlineJibrel Networks, Atom Investors, LP and mobile businesses for consumers and enterprises in the Middle East and North Africa. Until May 2018, he served as Chairman of the Board of Adecoagro, SA.EuroMena Capital, LP. Prior to forming ZCH, Mr. Zuaiter served in various senior capacities, at Soros Fund Management, LLC ("SFM"). At SFM Mr. Zuaiter was a member of the Executive, Investment, Management, Capital Allocation and Risk committees, as


Table of Contents

well as the Chief Operating Officer of the firm. Prior to joining SFM, Mr. Zuaiter was a Partner in the Financial ServicesAsset & Wealth Management Practice of PricewaterhouseCoopers, LLP, principally responsible for the asset management and financial institution industry.LLP. He also serves on for-profit and non-profitnot for profit boards, including Convent of the Sacred Heart-Greenwich, The Institute for Middle East Understanding (IMEU), The Welfare Association and The Middle East Institute International Advisory Council.Institute. He has a BSBA in Finance and Accounting from Georgetown University where he currently serves on the Board of Advisors for the McDonough School of Business and on the University's Board of Regents. He is well-qualified to serve on our Board of Directors due to his fund management, public company board and investment experience.

Number and Terms of Office of Officers and Directors

        We have 7 directors. Our board of directors is divided into three classes with only one class of directors being elected in each year and each class (except for those directors appointed prior to our first annual meeting of stockholders) serving a three-year term. In accordance with NYSE corporate governance requirements, we are not required to hold an annual meeting until one full year after our first fiscal year end following our listing on the NYSE. The term of office of the first class of directors, consisting of Messrs. Zuaiter, and Nathanson, will expire at our first annual meeting of stockholders. The term of office of the second class of directors, consisting of Ms. Linden, Mr. Sander, and Mr. Wasserman, will expire at the second annual meeting of stockholders. The term of office of the third class of directors, consisting of Messrs. Hindery and Gilchrist, will expire at the third annual meeting of stockholders.

        Our officers are appointed by the board of directors and serve at the discretion of the board of directors, rather than for specific terms of office. Our board of directors is authorized to appoint persons to the offices set forth in our bylaws as it deems appropriate. Our bylaws provide that our officers may consist of a Chairman of the Board, Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, President, Vice Presidents, Secretary, Treasurer, Assistant Secretaries and such other offices as may be determined by the board of directors.

Director Independence

        NYSE listing standards require that a majority of our board of directors be independent. An "independent director" is defined generally as a person other than an officer or employee of the company or its subsidiaries or any other individual having a relationship which in the opinion of the company's board of directors, would interfere with the director's exercise of independent judgment in carrying out the responsibilities of a director. Our board of directors has determined that Ms. Linden and Messrs. Nathanson, Sander and Zuaiter are "independent directors" as defined in the NYSE listing standards and applicable SEC rules. Our independent directors will have regularly scheduled meetings at which only independent directors are present.


Table of Contents

Executive Compensation

Summary Compensation Table

Name and Principal Position
 Year Salary
($)
 Bonus
($)
 Option
Awards
($)
 Non-Equity
Incentive Plan
Compensation
($)
 All Other
Compensation
($)
 Total
($)
 

Leo Hindery, Jr. 

  2019             

Chairman and Chief Executive Officer

                      

M. Ian G. Gilchrist(1)

  2019  150,000          150,000 

President

                      

Pierre M. Henry(2)

  2019  279,167          279,167 

Chief Financial Officer an EVP, Development

                      

(1)
Amount reflectreflects Mr. Gilchrist's monthly fee of $12,500; provided, however, from March 19, 2019 through December 31, 2020, one-half of the monthly fee was paid and one-half of the monthly fee accrued and will become payable on the consummation of our initial business combination.

(2)
Amount reflectreflects Mr. Henry's monthly fee which was increased from $16,667 per month to $25,000 per month in March 2019.

        We pay an affiliate of the Sponsor a total of $35,000 per month for office space, utilities and secretarial and administrative support. Upon completion of our initial business combination or our liquidation, we will cease paying these monthly fees. Other than to HPS or the HPS Funds, in connection with potentially providing financing or other investments in connection with our initial business combination, in no event will the Sponsor or any of our existing officers or directors, or any entity with which the Sponsor or officers are affiliated, be paid any finder's fee, reimbursement, consulting fee, monies in respect of any payment of a loan or other compensation by the company prior to, or in connection with any, services rendered in order to effectuate, the completion of our initial business combination (regardless of the type of transaction that it is) except for fees to two of our executive officers. In October 2018, we agreed to pay our President a fee of $12,500 per month. From the time of the Trine IPO through January 31, 2020, one-half of the monthly fee accrued and was payable monthly and one-half of the monthly fee accrued and will become payable on the consummation of our initial business combination. On August 26, 2020, the date of execution of the Merger Agreement, our President agreed to stop receiving a monthly fee from Trine. From February 1, 2020, the entire monthly fee will accrue and become payable on the consummation of our initial business combination. Additionally, in November 2018, we agreed to pay our Chief Financial Officer a fee of approximately $16,667 per month. In March 2019, such amount increased to $25,000 per month, which will be payable until the earlier of the consummation of our initial business combination or our liquidation. The Sponsor, officers and directors will be reimbursed for any out-of-pocket expenses incurred in connection with activities on our behalf such as identifying potential target businesses and performing due diligence on suitable business combinations. We do not have a policy that prohibits the Sponsor, executive officers or directors, or any of their respective affiliates, from negotiating for the reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses by a target business. Our audit committee reviews on a quarterly basis all payments that were made to the Sponsor, officers or directors, or our or their affiliates. Any such payments prior to an initial business combination will be made using funds held outside the trust account. Other than quarterly audit committee review of such payments, we do not expect to have any additional controls in place governing our reimbursement payments to our directors and executive officers for their out-of-pocket expenses incurred in connection with identifying and consummating an initial business combination.


Table of Contents

        Trine did not make any equity awards to any of its executive officers or directors during the fiscal year ending December 31, 2019 and 2018. On November 12, 2018, the Initial Sponsor transferred 25,000 Founder Shares to each of Ms. Linden and Messrs. Nathanson, Zuaiter and Sander as compensation for their services as independent directors of Trine. No other executive officers or directors of Trine hold any outstanding equity awards in us as of December 31, 2019.

        After the completion of our initial business combination, directors or members of our management team who remain with us may be paid consulting or management fees from the combined company. All of these fees will be fully disclosed to stockholders, to the extent then known, in the tender offer materials or proxy solicitation materials furnished to our stockholders in connection with a proposed initial business combination. We have not established any limit on the amount of such fees that may be paid by the combined company to our directors or members of management. It is unlikely the amount of such compensation will be known at the time of the proposed initial business combination, because the directors of the post-combination business will be responsible for determining officer and director compensation. In this event, such compensation will be publicly disclosed at the time of its determination in a Current Report on Form 8-K, as required by the SEC. Any compensation to be paid to our officers will be determined, or recommended to the board of directors for determination, either by a compensation committee constituted solely by independent directors or by a majority of the independent directors on our board of directors.

        We do not intend to take any action to ensure that members of our management team maintain their positions with us after the consummation of our initial business combination, although it is possible that some or all of our officers and directors may negotiate employment or consulting arrangements to remain with us after our initial business combination. The existence or terms of any such employment or consulting arrangements to retain their positions with us may influence our management's motivation in identifying or selecting a target business but we do not believe that the ability of our management to remain with us after the consummation of our initial business combination will be a determining factor in our decision to proceed with any potential business combination. We are not party to any agreements with our officers and directors that provide for benefits upon termination of employment.

Securities Authorized for Issuance Under Equity Compensation Plans

        As of December 31, 2019, we had no equity compensation plans or outstanding equity awards. The following table is presented as of December 31, 2019 in accordance with SEC requirements:

Plan Category
 Number of Securities
to be Issued Upon
Exercise of
Outstanding Options,
Warrants and Rights
 Weighted Average
Exercise Price of
Outstanding
Options, Warrants
and Rights
 Number of Securities
Remaining Available
for Future Issuance
Under Equity
Compensation Plans
 

Equity compensation plans approved by security holders

       

Equity compensation plans not approved by security holders

       

Limitation on Liability and Indemnification of Officers and Directors

        Our Existing Charter provides that our officers and directors will be indemnified by us to the fullest extent authorized by Delaware law, as it now exists or may in the future be amended. In addition, our Existing Charter provides that our directors will not be personally liable for monetary damages to us or stockholders for breaches of their fiduciary duty as directors, unless they violated their duty of loyalty to us or our stockholders, acted in bad faith, knowingly or intentionally violated


Table of Contents

the law, authorized unlawful payments of dividends, unlawful stock purchases or unlawful redemptions, or derived an improper personal benefit from their actions as directors.

        We entered into agreements with our officers and directors to provide contractual indemnification in addition to the indemnification provided for in our Existing Charter. Our bylaws also permit us to secure insurance on behalf of any officer, director or employee for any liability arising out of his or her actions, regardless of whether Delaware law would permit such indemnification. We purchased a policy of directors' and officers' liability insurance that insures our officers and directors against the cost of defense, settlement or payment of a judgment in some circumstances and insures us against our obligations to indemnify our officers and directors. Except with respect to any public shares they may have acquired in the Trine IPO or thereafter (in the event we do not consummate an initial business combination), our officers and directors have agreed to waive (and any other persons who may become an officer or director prior to the initial business combination will also be required to waive) any right, title, interest or claim of any kind in or to any monies in the trust account, and not to seek recourse against the trust account for any reason whatsoever, including with respect to such indemnification.

        These provisions may discourage stockholders from bringing a lawsuit against our directors for breach of their fiduciary duty. These provisions also may have the effect of reducing the likelihood of derivative litigation against directors and officers, even though such an action, if successful, might otherwise benefit us and our stockholders. Furthermore, a stockholder's investment may be adversely affected to the extent we pay the costs of settlement and damage awards against officers and directors pursuant to these indemnification provisions.

        We believe that these provisions, the insurance and the indemnity agreements are necessary to attract and retain talented and experienced officers and directors.


Table of Contents


SELECTED HISTORICAL FINANCIAL INFORMATION OF TRINE

        The following table shows summary historical financial data of Trine for the periods and as of the dates indicated.

        The summary historical financial data of Trine as of and for the years ended December 31, 2019 and 2018 was derived from the audited historical consolidated financial statements of Trine included elsewhere in this proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus. The summary historical financial data of Trine as of June 30, 2020 and for the six months ended June 30, 2020 and 2019 was derived from the unaudited interim consolidated financial statements of Trine included elsewhere in this proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus.

        The following table should be read in conjunction with the sections entitled "Information About Trine" and "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations of Trine" and the historical financial statements and the notes and schedules related thereto, included elsewhere in this proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus. The historical results presented below are not necessarily indicative of financial results to be achieved by the business following the Business Combination.

 
 For the Six Months
Ended June 30,
 For the
year ended
December 31,
 For the
Period From
September 26,
2018 (inception)
through
December 31,
 
(in thousands, except share and per share data)
 2020 2019 2019 2018 
 
 (Unaudited)
  
  
 

Statement of Operations Data:

             

Loss from operations

 $(1,008)$(671)$(1,857)$(44)

Other income, net

 $1,084 $2,205 $5,312 $ 

Provision for income taxes

 $(16)$(322)$(726)$ 

Net income (loss)

 $59 $1,212 $2,729 $(44)

Weighted average shares outstanding, basic and diluted

  
9,033,344
  
7,804,138
  
8,348,930
  
6,525,000
 

Basic and diluted net loss per common share

 $(0.09)$(0.06)$(0.18)$(0.01)

Statement of Cash Flows Data:

  
 
  
 
  
 
  
 
 

Net cash used in operating activities

 $(978)$(1,799)$(2,698)$(47)

Net cash provided by (used) in investing activities

 $230 $(299,217)$(299,217)$ 

Net cash provided by financing activities

 $670 $301,936 $301,934 $166 

 

 
  
 As of December 31, 
 
 As of
June 30, 2020
 
(in thousands)
 2019 2018 
 
 (Unaudited)
  
  
 

Balance Sheet Data:

          

Total assets

 $305,803 $305,125 $326 

Total liabilities

 $11,463 $10,844 $344 

Total common stock subject to possible redemption

 $289,340 $289,281 $ 

Total stockholders' equity

 $5,000 $5,000 $(19)

Table of Contents


TRINE'S MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

        The following discussion should be read in conjunction with "Summary Historical Financial Data for Trine," "Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Combined Financial Statements," "Selected Historical Financial Information of Trine" and the Trine's consolidated financial statements, including the notes thereto, included elsewhere in this proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus. Certain statements in this "Trine's Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" are forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties, such as statements regarding the Trine's plans, objectives, expectations and intentions. Trine's future results and financial condition may differ materially from those currently anticipated as a result of the factors described under sections titled "Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements" and "Risk Factors." In this section "we," "us" and "our" refer to Trine prior to the Business Combination and to the Post-Combination Company following the Business Combination.

Overview

        We are a blank check company formed under the laws of the State of Delaware on September 26, 2018 for the purpose of effecting a merger, capital stock exchange, asset acquisition, stock purchase, reorganization or similar initial business combination with one or more target businesses. We intend to effectuate our initial business combination using cash from the proceeds of the Trine IPO and the sale of the private placement warrants that occurred simultaneously with the completion of the Trine IPO, our capital stock, debt or a combination of cash, stock and debt.

        The issuance of additional shares in connection with an initial business combination to the owners of the target or other investors:

    may significantly dilute the equity interest of investors, which dilution would increase if the anti-dilution provisions in the Founder Shares resulted in the issuance of Class A shares on a greater than one-to-one basis upon conversion of the Founder Shares;

    may subordinate the rights of holders of our common stock if preferred stock is issued with rights senior to those afforded our common stock;

    could cause a change in control if a substantial number of shares of our common stock is issued, which may affect, among other things, our ability to use our net operating loss carry forwards, if any, and could result in the resignation or removal of our present officers and directors;

    may have the effect of delaying or preventing a change of control of us by diluting the stock ownership or voting rights of a person seeking to obtain control of us; and

    may adversely affect prevailing market prices for our Class A common stock and/or warrants.

        Similarly, if we issue debt securities or otherwise incur significant debt to bank or other lenders or the owners of a target, it could result in:

    default and foreclosure on our assets if our operating revenues after an initial business combination are insufficient to repay our debt obligations;

    acceleration of our obligations to repay the indebtedness even if we make all principal and interest payments when due if we breach certain covenants that require the maintenance of certain financial ratios or reserves without a waiver or renegotiation of that covenant;

    our immediate payment of all principal and accrued interest, if any, if the debt security is payable on demand;

    our inability to obtain necessary additional financing if the debt security contains covenants restricting our ability to obtain such financing while the debt security is outstanding;

Table of Contents

    our inability to pay dividends on our common stock;

    using a substantial portion of our cash flow to pay principal and interest on our debt, which will reduce the funds available for dividends on our common stock if declared, our ability to pay expenses, make capital expenditures and acquisitions, and fund other general corporate purposes;

    limitations on our flexibility in planning for and reacting to changes in our business and in the industry in which we operate;

    increased vulnerability to adverse changes in general economic, industry and competitive conditions and adverse changes in government regulation;

    limitations on our ability to borrow additional amounts for expenses, capital expenditures, acquisitions, debt service requirements, and execution of our strategy; and

    other purposes and other disadvantages compared to our competitors who have less debt.

        We expect to continue to incur significant costs in the pursuit of our acquisition plans. We cannot assure you that our plans to complete an initial business combination will be successful.

Recent Developments

Proposed Business Combination

        See "The Business Combination" elsewhere in this proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus, which disclosure is incorporated herein by reference.

The Merger Agreement

        See "The Merger Agreement" elsewhere in this proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus, which disclosure is incorporated herein by reference.

Subscription Agreements

        See "Other Agreements—Subscription Agreements" elsewhere in this proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus, which disclosure is incorporated herein by reference.

Results of Operations

        We have neither engaged in any operations nor generated any revenues to date. Our only activities from inception to June 30, 2020 were organizational activities and those necessary to prepare for the Trine IPO, described below, and, after the Trine IPO, identifying a target company for a business combination. We do not expect to generate any operating revenues until after the completion of our business combination. We generate non-operating income in the form of interest income on marketable securities held in the trust account. We are incurring expenses as a result of being a public company (for legal, financial reporting, accounting and auditing compliance), as well as for due diligence expenses.

        For the three months ended June 30, 2020, we had a net loss of $180,232, which consisted of operating costs of $501,332, offset by interest income on marketable securities held in the trust account of $273,190 and an income tax benefit of $47,910.

        For the six months ended June 30, 2020, we had net income of $59,484, which consisted of interest income on marketable securities held in the trust account of $1,083,575 offset by operating costs of $1,007,848 and a provision for income taxes of $16,243.

        For the three months ended June 30, 2019, we had net income of $1,253,059, which consisted of interest income on marketable securities held in the trust account of $1,811,455 and an unrealized gain


Table of Contents

on marketable securities held in our trust account of $196,280, offset by operating costs of $433,962 and a provision for income taxes of $320,714.

        For the six months ended June 30, 2019, we had net income of $1,211,638, which consisted of interest income on marketable securities held in the trust account of $2,002,063 and an unrealized gain on marketable securities held in our trust account of $202,788, offset by operating costs of $671,133 and a provision for income taxes of $322,080.

        For the year ended December 31, 2019, we had net income of $2,729,032, which consisted of interest income on marketable securities held in the trust account of $5,142,140 and an unrealized gain on marketable securities held in our trust account of $169,784, offset by operating costs of $1,856,857 and a provision for income taxes of $726,035.

        For the period from September 28, 2018 (inception) through December 31, 2018, we had net loss of $43,693, which consisted of operating costs.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

        On March 19, 2019, we consummated the Trine IPO of 26,100,000 units at a price of $10.00 per unit, generating gross proceeds of $261,000,000. Simultaneously with the closing of the Trine IPO, we consummated the sale of 7,720,000 private placement warrants to the Sponsor at a price of $1.00 per warrant, generating gross proceeds of $7,720,000.

        On March 29, 2019, in connection with the Underwriters' election to fully exercise of their over-allotment option, we consummated the sale of an additional 3,915,000 units and the sale of an additional 783,000 private placement warrants, generating total gross proceeds of $39,933,000.

        Following the Trine IPO, the exercise of the over-allotment option and the sale of the private placement warrants, a total of $300,150,000 was placed in the trust account. We incurred $17,082,640 in transaction costs, including $6,003,000 of underwriting fees, $10,505,250 of deferred underwriting fees and $574,390 of other offering costs.

        For the six months ended June 30, 2020, cash used in operating activities was $978,135, which was comprised on our net income of $59,484, interest earned on marketable securities held in the trust account of $1,083,575, a deferred tax benefit of $35,655 and changes in operating assets and liabilities, which provided $81,611 of cash from operating activities.

        For the six months ended June 30, 2019, cash used in operating activities was $1,798,838, which was comprised on our net income of $1,211,638, interest earned on marketable securities held in the trust account of $2,002,063, an unrealized gain on marketable securities held in our trust account of $202,788, deferred income taxes of $42,585 and changes in operating assets and liabilities, which used $848,210 of cash from operating activities.

        As of June 30, 2020, we had marketable securities held in the trust account of $305,382,095 (including approximately $5,232,000 of interest income and unrealized gains) consisting of cash and U.S. Treasury Bills with a maturity of 180 days or less. Interest income on the balance in the trust account may be used by us to pay taxes. Through June 30, 2020, we withdrew $1,163,404 of interest earned on the trust account to pay income taxes, of which $230,404 amounts were withdrawn during the six months ended June 30, 2020.

        We intend to use substantially all of the funds held in the trust account, including any amounts representing interest earned on the trust account (less deferred underwriting commissions) to complete our initial business combination. To the extent that our capital stock or debt is used, in whole or in part, as consideration to complete our initial business combination, the remaining proceeds held in the trust account will be used as working capital to finance the operations of the target business or businesses, make other acquisitions and pursue our growth strategies.


Table of Contents

        At June 30, 2020, we had cash of $60,978 held outside the trust account. We intend to use the funds held outside the trust account primarily to identify and evaluate target businesses, perform business due diligence on prospective target businesses, travel to and from the offices, plants or similar locations of prospective target businesses or their representatives or owners, review corporate documents and material agreements of prospective target businesses, and structure, negotiate and complete an initial business combination.

        On February 24, 2020, we issued a note in the principal amount of up to $1,500,000 to our Sponsor (the "2020 Note"). The 2020 Note bears no interest and is repayable in full upon consummation of our initial business combination. The Sponsor has the option to convert any unpaid balance of the 2020 Note into Working Capital Warrants equal to the principal amount of the 2020 Note so converted divided by $1.00. The terms of any such Working Capital Warrants will be identical to the terms of the private placement warrants. If we complete an initial business combination, we would repay such loaned amounts to the extent they are not converted into Working Capital Warrants. In the event that an initial business combination does not close, we may use a portion of the working capital held outside the trust account to repay such loaned amounts but no proceeds from our trust account would be used for such repayment. As of June 30, 2020, we borrowed an aggregate amount of $670,176 under the 2020 Note.

        We do not believe we will need to raise additional funds in order to meet the expenditures required for operating our business. However, if our estimate of the costs of identifying a target business, undertaking in-depth due diligence and negotiating an initial business combination are less than the actual amount necessary to do so, we may have insufficient funds available to operate our business prior to our initial business combination. Moreover, we may need to obtain additional financing either to complete our initial business combination or because we become obligated to redeem a significant number of our public shares upon consummation of our initial business combination, in which case we may issue additional securities or incur debt in connection with such initial business combination. Subject to compliance with applicable securities laws, we would only complete such financing simultaneously with the completion of our initial business combination. If we are unable to complete our initial business combination because we do not have sufficient funds available to us, we will be forced to cease operations and liquidate the trust account. In addition, following our initial business combination, if cash on hand is insufficient, we may need to obtain additional financing in order to meet our obligations.

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

        We have no obligations, assets or liabilities, which would be considered off-balance sheet arrangements as of June 30, 2020. We do not participate in transactions that create relationships with unconsolidated entities or financial partnerships, often referred to as variable interest entities, which would have been established for the purpose of facilitating off-balance sheet arrangements. We have not entered into any off-balance sheet financing arrangements, established any special purpose entities, guaranteed any debt or commitments of other entities, or purchased any non-financial assets.

Contractual Obligations

        We do not have any long-term debt, capital lease obligations, operating lease obligations or long-term liabilities, other than an agreement to pay an affiliate of the Sponsor a monthly fee of $35,000 for office space, utilities and secretarial and administrative support. We began incurring these fees on March 14, 2019 and will continue to incur these fees monthly until the earlier of the completion of the initial business combination and Trine liquidation.

        The Underwriters are entitled to a deferred fee of $0.35 per unit, or $10,505,250 in the aggregate. The deferred fee will become payable to the Underwriters from the amounts held in the trust account solely in the event we complete an initial business combination. If we do not complete an initial


Table of Contents

business combination and subsequently liquidate, the trustee and the Underwriters have agreed that (i) they will forfeit any rights or claims to their deferred underwriting discounts and commissions, including any accrued interest thereon, then in the trust account upon liquidation, and (ii) that the deferred underwriters' discounts and commissions will be distributed on a pro rata basis, including interest earned on the funds held in the trust account and not previously released to us to pay taxes to the public stockholders.

Policies

        The preparation of condensed financial statements and related disclosures in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements, and income and expenses during the periods reported. Actual results could materially differ from those estimates. We have identified the following critical accounting policies:

Common Stock Subject to Possible Redemption

        We account for our common stock subject to possible redemption in accordance with the guidance in Accounting Standards Codification ("ASC") Topic 480 "Distinguishing Liabilities from Equity." Common stock subject to mandatory redemption is classified as a liability instrument and is measured at fair value. Conditionally redeemable common stock (including common stock that features redemption rights that are either within the control of the holder or subject to redemption upon the occurrence of uncertain events not solely within our control) is classified as temporary equity. At all other times, common stock is classified as stockholders' equity. Our common stock features certain redemption rights that are considered to be outside of our control and subject to occurrence of uncertain future events. Accordingly, common stock subject to possible redemption is presented at redemption value as temporary equity, outside of the stockholders' equity section of our condensed balance sheets.

Net Loss Per Common Share

        We apply the two-class method in calculating earnings per share. Shares of common stock subject to possible redemption which are not currently redeemable and are not redeemable at fair value, have been excluded from the calculation of basic net loss per share since such shares, if redeemed, only participate in their pro rata share of the trust account earnings. Our net income is adjusted for the portion of income that is attributable to common stock subject to possible redemption, as these shares only participate in the earnings of the trust account and not our income or losses.

Recent Accounting Standards

        Management does not believe that any recently issued, but not yet effective, accounting standards, if currently adopted, would have a material effect on our condensed financial statements.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

        Following the consummation of the Trine IPO, the net proceeds of the Trine IPO, including amounts in the trust account, may be invested in U.S. government treasury bills, notes or bonds with a maturity of 180 days or less or in certain money market funds that invest solely in US treasuries. Due to the short-term nature of these investments, we believe there will be no associated material exposure to interest rate risk.


Table of Contents


SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS
AND MANAGEMENT OF TRINE AND THE POST-COMBINATION COMPANY

        The following table and accompanying footnotes set forth information with respectknown to Trine regarding (i) the actual beneficial ownership of Trine's Class A common stock and Class B common stock, as of September 1,October 30, 2020 for (1) and (ii) expected beneficial ownership of the Post-Combination Company immediately following consummation of the Business Combination, assuming no Public Shares of Trine are redeemed, and alternatively that all Public Shares of Trine are redeemed, by:

    each person known by Trinewho is, or is expected to be, the beneficial owner of more than 5% of Trine'sthe outstanding shares of common stock (2) each member of Trine or the Trine Board that beneficially own Trine common stock, (3) Post-Combination Company, as applicable;

    each of Trine's current directors and named executive officers that beneficially own Trine common stock and (4) allofficers;

    each person who will become a director or named executive officer of the membersPost-Combination Company; and

    all directors and officers of Trine, as a group, and of the Trine Board and Trine's executive officersPost-Combination Company, as a group. As

        The beneficial ownership of September 1, 2020, Trine hadTrine's common stock is based on 30,015,000 shares of Class A common stock issued and outstanding owned by one holder of record, and 7,503,750 shares of Class B common stock outstanding, owned by five holders of record.

        The number of shares and the percentages of beneficial ownership below are based on the number of shares of Trine common stock issued and outstanding as of September 1,October 30, 2020. In computing the number of shares of common stock beneficially owned by a person and the percentage ownership of such person, Trine deemed to be outstanding all shares of common stock subject to options held by the person that are currently exercisable or exercisable within 60 days of September 1,October 30, 2020. Trine did not deem such shares outstanding, however, for the purpose of computing the percentage ownership of any other person.

        The expected beneficial ownership of shares of the Post-Combination Company's common stock, assuming no Public Shares of Trine are redeemed, has been determined based upon the following: (i) no public stockholder has exercised its redemption rights to receive cash from Trine's trust account in exchange for its Public Shares and Trine has not issued any additional shares of its Class A common stock; (ii) 27,497,500 shares of common stock have been issued in pursuant to the Subscription Agreements; and (iii) there will be an aggregate of                 shares of the Post-Combination Company's common stock issued and outstanding at the closing of the Business Combination.

        The expected beneficial ownership of shares of the Post-Combination Company's common stock, assuming all Public Shares of Trine have been redeemed, has been determined based on the following: (i) public stockholders have exercised their redemption rights with respect to approximately 30,015,000 shares of Trine's Class A common stock; (ii) 27,497,500 shares of common stock have been issued in pursuant to the Subscription Agreements; and (iii) there will be an aggregate of                shares of the Post-Combination Company's common stock issued and outstanding at the closing of the Business Combination.

        Beneficial ownership for the purposes of the following table is determined in accordance with the rules and regulations of the SEC. A person is a "beneficial owner" of a security if that person has or shares "voting power," which includes the power to vote or to direct the voting of the security, or "investment power," which includes the power to dispose of or to direct the disposition of the security or has the right to acquire such powers within 60 days.


Table of Contents

        Unless otherwise noted in the footnotes to the following table, and subject to applicable community property laws, the persons and entities named in the table have sole voting and investment power with respect to their beneficially owned common stock.

 Before the Business Combination After the Business Combination 

 Class A Class B  Class A Class B Assuming No
Redemption
 Assuming
Redemption
of All
Public Shares
 
Name of Beneficial Owner(1)
 Number of
Shares
Beneficially
Owned
 Percentage
of Class
 Number of
Shares
Beneficially
Owned(2)
 Percentage
of Class
  Number of
Shares
Beneficially
Owned
 Percentage
of Class
 Number of
Shares
Beneficially
Owned(2)
 Percentage
of Class
 Numbers of
Shares
Beneficially
Owned
 Percentage
of Class
 Numbers of
Shares
Beneficially
Owned
 Percentage
of Class
 

Principal Stockholders:

                          

Trine Sponsor IH, LLC(3)

   7,403,750 98.67%   7,403,750 98.67% 7,403,750   7,403,750   

Robin Trine Holdings, LLC(3)

   7,403,750 98.67%   7,403,750 98.67% 7,403,750   7,403,750   

HPS Investment Partners, LLC(3)

   7,403,750 98.67%   7,403,750 98.67% 7,403,750   7,403,750   

Omni Partners LLP(4)

 2,452,849 8.17%    2,452,849 8.17%   2,452,849     

Polar Asset Management Partners Inc.(5)

 2,400,000 8.00%    2,400,000 8.00%   2,400,000     

Periscope Capital Inc.(6)

 1,637,500 5.50%   

RP Investment Advisors LP(7)

 1,515,000 5.50%   

Millennium Management LLC(8)

 1,500,365 5.00%   

Directors and Named Executive Officers:

         

William H. Miller III Living Trust(6)

 2,323,780 7.74%   2,323,780     

Periscope Capital Inc.(7)

 1,637,500 5.50%   1,637,500     

RP Investment Advisors LP(8)

 1,515,000 5.50%   1,515,000     

Millennium Management LLC(9)

 1,500,365 5.00%   1,500,365     

KPCB Holdings, Inc., as nominee

             

Entities affiliated with Lux Ventures

             

Entities affiliated with New Enterprise Associates

             

Directors and Named Executive Officers of Trine:

                 

Leo Hindery, Jr.(3)

   7,403,750 98.67%   7,403,750 98.67% 7,403,750   7,403,750   

Josephine Linden

   25,000 *    25,000 * 25,000   25,000   

M. Ian G. Gilchrist

                

Pierre M. Henry

                

Marc Nathanson

   25,000 *    25,000 * 25,000   25,000   

Kent R. Sander

   25,000 *    25,000 * 25,000   25,000   

Abbas F. Zuaiter

   25,000 *    25,000 * 25,000   25,000   

Directors and executive officers as a group (9 individuals)

   7,503,750 100.00%

Directors and executive officers of Trine as a group of (9 individuals)

   7,503,750 100.00%         

Directors and Named Executive Officers of the Post-Combination Company

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Ric Fulop

             

Steve Billow

             

Michael Rubino

             

Vu Tuan Anh TranPham

             

Dayna Grayson

             

Wen Hsieh

             

Leo Hindery, Jr.(3)

   7,403,750 98.67% 7,403,750   7,403,750   

Jeff Immelt

             

Byron Knight

             

Stephen Nigro

             

Steve Papa

             

Andy Wheeler

             

Bilal Zuberi

             

Directors and executive officers of the Post-Combination Company as a group (15 individuals)

   7,403,750 98.67%         

*
Less than one percent.


Table of Contents

(1)
This table is based on 37,518,750 shares of Trine common stock outstanding at September 1, 2020, of which 30,015,000 were shares of Class A common stock and 7,503,750 were shares of Class B common stock. Except as described in the footnotes below and subject to applicable community property laws and similar laws, Trine believes that each person listed above has sole voting and investment power with respect to such shares. Unless otherwise noted, the business address of each of the following entities or individuals, prior to the consummation Business Combination, is c/o Trine Acquisition Corp., 405 Lexington Avenue, 48th Floor, New York, NY 10174.10174, and following the consummation of the Business Combination, is c/o Desktop Metal, Inc., 63 3rd Ave., Burlington, MA 01803.

(2)
Shares of Class B common stock are referred to as "Founder Shares". The Founder Shares will convert into Class A common stock at the time of the Business Combination, or earlier at the option of the holder, on a one-for-one basis, subject to adjustment. Beneficial ownership of Class B common stock reflected in this table has not been also reflected as beneficial ownership of the Class A common stock into which such shares may be converted.


Table of Contents

(3)
Trine Sponsor IH, LLC, the Sponsor, is the record holder of such shares. Robin Trine Holdings, LLC ("RTH") and HPS Investment Partners, LLC ("HPS") are the members of the Sponsor, and as such each of HPS and RTH has appointed a member to the board of the Sponsor, which board has voting and investment discretion with respect to the common stock held of record by the Sponsor. Leo Hindery, Jr., our Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, is the managing member of RTH. Based on the foregoing, Mr. Hindery, RTH and HPS may be deemed to have shared beneficial ownership of the common stock held directly by the Sponsor. Each such entity or person disclaims any beneficial ownership of the reported shares other than to the extent of any pecuniary interest they may have therein, directly or indirectly. The business address of Mr. Hindery and RTH is 405 Lexington Avenue, 48th Floor, New York, New York 10174. The business address of HPS is 40 West 57th Street, 33rd Floor, New York, NY 10019.

(4)
According to Schedule 13G/A, filed on February 24, 2020 by Omni Partners LLP, address of such party is 4th Floor, 15 Golden Square, London W1F 9JG, UK.

(5)
According to Schedule 13G, filed on February 13, 2020 by Polar Asset Management Partners Inc., the business address of such party is 401 Bay Street, Suite 1900, PO Box 19, Toronto, Ontario M5H 2Y4, Canada. Polar Asset Management Partners Inc., a company incorporated under the laws of Ontario, Canada, serves as the investment advisor to Polar Multi-Strategy Master Fund, a Cayman Islands exempted company ("PMSMF") and certain managed accounts (together with PMSMF, the "Polar Vehicles"), with respect to the shares of Class A common stock directly held by the Polar Vehicles.

(6)
According to Schedule 13G, filed on September 21, 2020 by William H. Miller III Living Trust, (the "Trust") the business address of such party is One South Street, Suite 2550, Baltimore, Maryland 21202. The Trust is the sole beneficial owner of 500,000 shares of Class A common stock and is also deemed to be the beneficial owner of 1,823,780 shares of Class A common stock owned by clients of Miller Value Partners, LLC, a registered investment adviser.

(7)
According to Schedule 13G, filed on February 14, 2020 by Periscope Capital Inc., the business address of such party is 333 Bay Street, Suite 1240, Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5H 2R2. Periscope Capital, which is the beneficial owner of 1,249,300 shares of Class A common stock, acts as investment manager of, and exercises investment discretion with respect to certain private investment funds that collectively directly own 388,200 shares of Class A common stock.

(7)(8)
According to Schedule 13G, filed on February 14, 2020 by RP Investment Advisors LP, RP Debt Opportunities Fund LTD. And RP Select Opportunities Master Fund Ltd., the business address of such parties is 39 Hazelton Avenue, Toronto, Ontario, Canada, M5R 2E3. RP Debt Opportunities Fund Ltd. and RP Select Opportunities Master Fund Ltd. are the record and direct beneficial owners of the securities referenced. RP Investment Advisors LP is the investment advisor of, and may be deemed to beneficially own securities owned by, RP Debt Opportunities Fund Ltd. and RP Select Opportunities Master Fund Ltd.

(8)(9)
According to Schedule 13G/A, filed on January 6, 2020 by Integrated Core Strategies (US) LLC, Riverview Group LLC, Millennium Management LLC, Millennium Group Management LLC and Israel A. Englander (collectively, the "Millennium Parties"), the business address of such parties is 666 Fifth Avenue, New York, New York 10103. The Millennium Parties hold 250,000 of the units and 1,250,365 shares of Class A common stock. Such securities are held through (i) Integrated Core Strategies (US) LLC, a Delaware limited liability company ("Integrated Core Strategies"), which beneficially owned 250,000 of the units and 500,000 shares of the Class A Common Stock; and (ii) Riverview Group LLC, a Delaware limited liability company ("Riverview Group"), which

Table of Contents

    beneficially owned 750,365 shares of the Class A Common Stock. Millennium Management LLC, a Delaware limited liability company ("Millennium Management"), is the general partner of the managing member of Integrated Core Strategies and Riverview Group and may be deemed to have shared voting control and investment discretion over securities owned by Integrated Core Strategies and Riverview Group. Millennium Group Management LLC, a Delaware limited liability company ("Millennium Group Management"), is the managing member of Millennium Management and may also be deemed to have shared voting control and investment discretion over securities owned by Integrated Core Strategies and Riverview Group. The managing member of Millennium Group Management is a trust of which Israel A. Englander, a United States citizen ("Mr. Englander"), currently serves as the sole voting trustee. Therefore, Mr. Englander may also be deemed to have shared voting control and investment discretion over securities owned by Integrated Core Strategies and Riverview Group.

        Trine's Initial Stockholders beneficially own 20% of Trine's issued and outstanding shares of common stock as of the Trine Record Date. Because of this ownership block, the Initial Stockholders may be able to effectively exercise influence the outcome of all matters requiring approval by our stockholders, including the election of directors, amendments to our Existing Charter and approval of significant corporate transactions, including approval of our initial business combination.

        The holders of the Founder Shares have agreed (A) to vote any shares owned by them in favor of any proposed initial business combination and (B) not to redeem any shares in connection with a stockholder vote to approve a proposed initial business combination.


Table of Contents


INFORMATION ABOUT DESKTOP METAL

        Unless the context otherwise requires, all references in this section to "we," "us," or "our" refer to Desktop Metal, Inc. and its subsidiaries prior to the consummation of the Business Combination.

Company Overview

        Desktop Metal is pioneering a new generation of additive manufacturing technologies focused on the production of end-use parts. We offer a portfolio of integrated additive manufacturing solutions for engineers, designers and manufacturers comprised of hardware, software, materials and services. Our solutions span use cases across the product life cycle, from product development to mass production and aftermarket operations, and they address an array of industries, including automotive, aerospace, healthcare, consumer products, heavy industry, machine design and research and development.

        At Desktop Metal, we believe additive manufacturing, commonly referred to as 3D printing, is one of the most exciting and transformational technology innovations of our time. It has the capacity to change the way parts of nearly all materials are designed, manufactured and sold around the world, and it provides businesses of all sizes the means to make high-performance products faster, more sustainably, and at costs and volumes competitive with conventional manufacturing processes. Our mission is to make additive manufacturing accessible to all engineers, designers and manufacturers. In doing so, we believe we will empower businesses to adopt radical, new approaches to design and production and enable the success of many of the high-growth industries that will drive global economic growth in the years to come.

        Additive manufacturing represents a paradigm shift for global manufacturing, which is a $12 trillion industry, according to estimates from A.T. Kearney. It is a radical change from conventional manufacturing processes such as casting, stamping, molding or computer numerical controlled ("CNC") machining. These conventional processes present numerous business hurdles, including long lead times, geometric and design limitations, minimum order quantities, and upfront costs associated with manufacturing tooling, such as molds, dies, jigs, or fixtures. These constraints often prevent or delay businesses from reacting rapidly to supply chain disruptions or shifts in customer demand with introductions of new, high-performing and cost-effective products. By eliminating tooling requirements, additive manufacturing offers the potential to overcome many of these hurdles and allows for breakthroughs in materials, product design and supply chain flexibility. We believe there is significant demand for additive manufacturing technology but that existing additive manufacturing solutions have fallen short of the throughput, repeatability, part quality and economics that manufacturers need to drive wider adoption. As a result, manufacturers' use of current 3D printing technologies is focused on design and prototyping applications rather than volume production of end-use parts.

        The additive manufacturing industry is now at a major inflection point. According to the Wohlers Report 2020 and management estimates, the global additive manufacturing market, which includes spending on systems, materials, parts and other 3D printing software and services, is expected to grow from $12 billion in 2019 to $146 billion in 2030 at a compound annual growth rate of approximately 25%. This rapid growth is being driven, in part, by a new generation of additive manufacturing technologies that enable high-volume and end-use parts production. With our broad portfolio of additive manufacturing solutions, we believe Desktop Metal is at the forefront of this transformation with the potential to help businesses realize the promise of additive manufacturing across a wide range of vertical markets.

        Our potential to capitalize on this significant opportunity set is rooted in our deep experience in and commitment to research and development. Our engineering efforts are led by a team of world-renowned experts in advanced manufacturing, material science and robotics, including four MIT professors. Since our founding in 2015, we have invested significant resources in developing an extensive portfolio of proprietary and differentiated technologies, with a focus on making additive manufacturing an easy-to-use, economic and scalable solution. Our product platforms, which incorporate these technologies, offer several key advantages over competitive additive manufacturing


Table of Contents

technologies and provide our customers with several price points depending on their desired features and applications. Our announced additive manufacturing solutions are as follows:

    Production System is an industrial manufacturing solution designed to achieve speeds up to 100 times those of legacy powder bed fusion ("PBF") additive manufacturing technologies, enabling production quantities of up to millions of parts per year at costs competitive with conventional mass production techniques. Production System is scheduled to begin volume commercial shipments in 2021.

    Shop System is designed to bring metal additive manufacturing to machine and job shops with an affordable, turnkey solution that achieves exceptional surface finish parts with rich feature detail at speeds up to 10 times those of legacy PBF additive manufacturing technologies. Shop System is scheduled to begin volume commercial shipments in late 2020.

    Studio System is an office-friendly metal additive manufacturing system that minimizes requirements for special facilities or expensive environmental, health, and safety ("EHS") equipment as compared to legacy PBF additive manufacturing technologies. It also simplifies the production of low volumes of complex, high-quality metal parts in-house through an integrated software workflow. Studio System has been shipping in volume since the fourth quarter of 2018.

    Fiber is a desktop 3D printer designed to produce composite parts reinforced with aerospace- and industrial-grade continuous fiber tape, unlocking superior part strength with high-performance materials starting at an affordable annual subscription price. Fiber is scheduled to begin volume commercial shipments in late 2020.

        We have constructed a leading distribution channel for additive manufacturing solutions to reach a broad audience and to market, sell, and support our products. Our network of third-party value-added resellers and agents (our "resellers") covers over 60 countries around the world and is composed of sales and distribution professionals with decades of experience in digital manufacturing technologies. This enables us to sell and service our products at-scale in markets globally and is designed to produce substantial operational leverage as we execute our strategy.

        At our core, we are a company of innovators. We are led by visionary technologists and a team of proven leaders with experience bringing emerging technologies to market across the hardware, materials and software sectors. Our technologies have the potential to empower engineers and designers to easily access additive manufacturing and drive new application discovery as well as provide manufacturers with reliable and high-performance solutions that facilitate the production of innovative designs in high volumes. We believe that, taken together, these core competencies will propel us towards helping businesses realize the true promise of additive manufacturing.

Industry Background

Conventional manufacturing processes have numerous shortcomings.

        Historically, processes such as casting, stamping, molding and machining have dominated global manufacturing, which is a $12 trillion industry, according to estimates by A.T. Kearney. These conventional and subtractive manufacturing techniques have numerous limitations. Most require high upfront expenses in the form of tools, such as molds, dies, jigs or fixtures. Designing and manufacturing these tools can result in long lead times for parts as well as minimum volume requirements in order to achieve cost efficiencies. Tooling requirements associated with casting, stamping, and molding also leave little room for design iteration without increasing time-to-market and development costs. New parts and design changes often require a new mold, thereby slowing the pace at which businesses can introduce new products and react to shifts in market preferences and making it difficult to compete effectively. CNC machining is an alternative to stamping, casting and molding that does not require a mold or die, enabling lower-volume production with reduced lead times. However, because CNC machining is a subtractive process in which material is removed from a solid block to create a part, it typically results in higher part costs and significant material waste. In addition, the CNC machining


Table of Contents

process often requires heavy involvement from specialist technicians, and machine programming can be time intensive. Each of these conventional manufacturing processes also creates design restrictions that can result in significantly higher part weights and costs or require assemblies, adversely impacting performance in favor of manufacturability and driving additional manufacturing and supply chain complexity.

Additive manufacturing has the potential to address the limitations of conventional manufacturing.

        Additive manufacturing addresses many of the limitations of conventional manufacturing through a combination of flexibility, ease of use and cost, making it an efficient and effective process across the product life cycle, from design and prototyping to production. Additive manufacturing is a digital manufacturing process that produces 3D objects from digital models through the repeated deposition of thin layers of material. This process eliminates the need for tooling inputs and provides a range of benefits including:

    Accelerated time-to-market.  Businesses can manufacture design files at the push of a button with no tooling required. While design cycles for conventional manufacturing can take weeks or months, additive manufacturing can shorten this cycle to days due to the ability to rapidly switch between or iterate on designs without excessive delay. Such improvements in time-to-market for new products can help businesses react more rapidly to shifts in customer demand.

    Design flexibility.  Conventional manufacturing can force design comprises as a result of subtractive manufacturing processes or the use of tools. While 3D printing may involve design guidelines primarily to reduce dependency on supports and optimize process success, designers generally have freedom to produce geometries not possible or economically feasible with conventional manufacturing. As an example, with additive manufacturing, designers can produce intricate organic or complex, lattice shapes that are optimized for strength and functional performance to reduce weight and material usage.

    Assembly consolidation.  Improved design flexibility enables the consolidation of sub-assemblies into single parts, which can improve reliability by reducing the number of failure points in a product. Decreasing part quantity is also a productivity breakthrough for many businesses. With fewer unique parts to fabricate, procure, store and assemble, businesses can drastically simplify their supply chains.

    Mass customization.  Additive manufacturing enables the customization and production of designs at scale, eliminating costs traditionally associated with multiple tools and tooling changeover as well as reducing the risk of excess inventory and material obsolescence. Each part printed using additive manufacturing can be identical to or radically different from the other parts within a given print. Several end markets, including audiology and dental, have already leveraged mass customization through additive manufacturing to improve the aesthetics and performance of parts.

    Supply chain re-engineering.  Additive manufacturing suitable for end-use parts production can improve supply chains by enabling on-demand manufacturing in distributed locations. Decentralized networks of additive manufacturing systems with low tooling and set-up costs can replace centralized facilities with conventional manufacturing equipment. In addition, producing parts near the point and time of demand can significantly reduce lead times, inventories, and dependencies on forecasting without incurring additional costs related to logistics and customs.

    Sustainable manufacturing.  Additive manufacturing is a more efficient production process than subtractive techniques, such as CNC machining. It requires fewer material inputs and reduces material waste. By enabling optimized geometries lighter than conventionally manufactured counterparts, additive manufacturing can also lead to downstream sustainability benefits, including reduced fuel consumption in industries such as automotive and aerospace. In addition,

Table of Contents

Many businesses are motivated to deploy additive manufacturing to improve production processes at-scale.

        Many businesses faced with increased global competition and rapidly changing market preferences are turning to additive manufacturing to overcome the limitations of conventional manufacturing and provide a competitive advantage. According to an Ernst & Young global survey, 83% of industrial businesses in 2019 were either already applying or considering applying additive manufacturing technologies, a significant increase from 36% in 2016. According to the Wohlers Report 2020, spending on additive manufacturing products and services roughly doubled from $6 billion to $12 billion during this same period. While many businesses still value the rapid prototyping benefits of additive manufacturing, they are also eager to realize benefits largely related to end-use part production. According to Ernst & Young, over 50% of industrial businesses expect to use additive manufacturing to produce products that better meet customer requirements; reduce logistics efforts, transport and inventories; and manufacture existing products at lower costs.

Most existing additive manufacturing technologies primarily focus on design & prototyping applications.

        Most commercially available 3D printers leverage legacy additive manufacturing technologies including fused filament fabrication ("FFF"), stereolithography ("SLA"), and PBF. These first-generation additive technologies build parts by tracing each layer using a single point or multiple points, such as an extrusion nozzle in FFF printers or a laser in SLA and PBF systems. While these technologies have evolved significantly since the early 2000s, they can typically only increase part throughput with additional time or systems, which limits customers' ability to increase production without also increasing their equipment costs. Many existing additive manufacturing solutions consequently continue to focus on design and prototyping use cases or other low volume production applications where design flexibility and turnaround time are important to customers, but costs and throughput are not.

As a result, businesses still face hurdles in adopting legacy additive manufacturing for end-use production.

        While the growth of additive manufacturing has accelerated in recent years, many companies still hesitate to fully adopt the existing, legacy technologies to produce end-use parts, preventing them from realizing the full benefits of additive manufacturing. Ernst & Young found that only 18% of industrial businesses in 2019 used additive manufacturing for end-use parts, lagging other use cases such as rapid prototyping. Because these existing, legacy technologies are better suited to design and prototyping applications, businesses pursuing additive manufacturing solutions face significant barriers to adopting these technologies for end-use applications. Using legacy additive manufacturing technologies to make end-use parts can be expensive, particularly for businesses under margin pressure. This is due to the high costs of legacy additive manufacturing equipment and related consumable materials, which are often priced at high levels by vendors to compensate for the low productivity of their systems. When combined with the limited throughput of these legacy additive manufacturing technologies, high upfront and operating costs result in part costs that typically cannot compete with conventional manufacturing. Consequently, business in industries that require inexpensive parts in large quantities, such as automotive and consumer products, face challenges in adopting additive manufacturing for end-use parts production.

Our Market Opportunity

        In part as a result of the drawbacks of these legacy additive manufacturing technologies, businesses of all sizes are engaging Desktop Metal to begin their deployment of additive manufacturing for scalable, end-use parts production. We believe our product portfolio enables customers to capture value at every stage in the product lifecycle from research and development to the high-volume mass production of end-use parts. We provide easy-to-use, high-throughput, and integrated additive


Table of Contents

manufacturing solutions comprised of hardware, software, materials, and services. Our solutions expand the addressable market for additive manufacturing by facilitating applications in vertical markets that have been restricted from adopting additive manufacturing due to cost and productivity hurdles, such as


Table of Contents

automotive, consumer products, heavy industry and machine design. As a result, we believe we are at the forefront of the next generation of companies that will drive the accelerated adoption of additive manufacturing for end-use parts, whereas legacy additive manufacturing technologies are primarily focused on enabling rapid prototyping. According to the Wohlers Report 2020 and management estimates, this market will grow from $12 billion in 2019 to $146 billion in 2030 at compound annual growth rate of approximately 25%, as additive manufacturing displaces conventional manufacturing across a growing range of industrial applications.

Our Growth Strategy

        The key elements of our strategy for growth include the following:

Expand our product offerings with a focus on integrated solutions that make additive manufacturing suitable for production applications and accessible to a broad audience.

        We believe the adoption of additive manufacturing, particularly for end-use parts, is driven by the availability of solutions that offer a tool-free, digital path to producing large quantities of parts that are both higher performance and lower cost than achievable through conventional manufacturing processes. Our product portfolio includes additive manufacturing technologies designed for volume production, and we intend to continue investing significant resources in enhancing these solutions and developing technologies with breakthrough advances in print speed and other process parameters to deliver the highest throughput systems and lowest part costs in the additive manufacturing market. We believe that such improvements will encourage customer investment in additive manufacturing across a range of industrial applications and vertical markets where conventional manufacturing has customarily held cost and volume advantages. Improved system productivity and economics will expand our market opportunity and enable customers to enjoy the benefits of additive manufacturing at-scale, including lighter, more sustainable parts and a digital supply chain. Our solutions focused on volume production also enable us to capture recurring revenue streams through the sales of consumables and service contracts. We are also committed to lowering the barriers to adopting such additive manufacturing solutions by providing integrated, turnkey experiences that reduce workflow complexity and include all the software, hardware, and materials required to produce end-use parts. To accomplish this, we intend to continue investing in software, materials, and sintering technologies complementary to our 3D printers that enable ease of use and broad adoption across a wide set of customers with varying levels of experience with additive manufacturing.

Qualify additional materials to reach new verticals and expand our addressable market

        Our current product portfolio supports 3D printing using an array of materials, including Polyetheretherketone ("PEEK") and Polyetherketoneketone ("PEKK") composites, stainless steels, tool steels, low alloy steels, precious metals and ceramics, and we are in the process qualifying additional materials for printing. Our metal additive manufacturing systems are designed using sintering-based, powder metallurgy processes, for which there are hundreds of metal alloys and ceramics with well-characterized and high-quality material properties. These powder metallurgy materials offer a broad set of materials for us to evaluate and qualify for use with our metal additive manufacturing solutions. Our Production System also provides an open platform for customers to develop and print with specialized materials that are either proprietary to them or not included on our internal development roadmap. By qualifying additional industrial materials on our systems and enabling customers to do the same, we believe we can serve a broader customer base and address new applications and vertical markets, thereby expanding market share of our solutions and helping drive adoption of additive manufacturing.


Table of Contents

Establish a robust parts-as-a-service offering

        We envision establishing a parts-as-a-service offering in which we directly manufacture parts for sale to our customers. This offering will enable us to provide a more holistic suite of solutions for our


Table of Contents

customers. For example, providing parts-as-a-service enables customers to leverage our technology with a lower initial capital expenditure investment before bringing their production in-house when they are ready to purchase our additive manufacturing systems. We believe such services will facilitate lead generation for our additive manufacturing systems at-scale and enable high-performance and specialized applications using new materials ahead of broader market introduction. In addition, as we expand our use of innovative business models such as hardware-as-a-service, in which we provide customers access to our systems on a limited time basis for a recurring annual subscription fee, a parts-as-a-service offering will enable us to leverage depreciated additive manufacturing systems returned by customers upgrading to a newer generation of systems. To date we have not recognized any revenue from either the parts-as-a-service or the hardware-as-a-service business models.

Extend our distribution channels and reach

        We have a leading global distribution network consisting of over 80 resellers covering more than 60 countries around the world. We intend to extend this distribution network by adding further geographic coverage and sales capacity as well as developing industry-specific expertise to drive penetration in vertical markets such as automotive, aerospace, medical, and consumer products. We also expect to continue building out a high-velocity sales channel for lower price point products, such as Fiber, by partnering with additional volume distributors of software and hardware as well as expanding our internal sales infrastructure and online sales presence. To augment the reach of our distribution network, we intend to grow our direct sales efforts focused primarily on serving major accounts and expanding our footprint within multinational or Fortune 500 organizations.

Build a diverse, global customer base

        We believe that our success depends, in part, on our ability to develop a diverse, global customer base to reduce risks associated with revenue concentration in any single geographic region or industry. Our customers today include businesses of all sizes, ranging from small and medium enterprises to Fortune 500 organizations and span many industries and applications, including aerospace, automotive, consumer products, medical devices, heavy industry, and research and development. We aim to leverage our global distribution network to reach new customers broadly as well as opportunities in targeted industries and geographies. We believe this diversification will also allow us to identify new applications for which our solutions are appropriate and provide us with customer feedback to assist our product development efforts and ensure we are addressing a broad range of market needs.

Promote awareness through training and education

        As businesses increasingly embrace additive manufacturing over the next decade, we intend to educate the market on best practices for adoption of the technology across the entire product life cycle. Our leadership position provides a platform to deliver this education both for our existing customers and the market as a whole. Such education is a critical component of our sales and marketing efforts. We believe businesses that are well-informed or that have firsthand experience of the benefits of our additive manufacturing solutions relative to conventional manufacturing are more likely to purchase and expand their use of our products and services over time. To drive such awareness, we are developing rich additive manufacturing content and curricula for delivery through both online and in-person media, including classes, programs, certifications, and professional services. We also intend to develop global centers of excellence, leveraging our own headquarters in conjunction with our distribution network's presences, to serve as showrooms, learning facilities and focal points for additive manufacturing-focused professional services.


Table of Contents

Pursue strategic acquisitions and partnerships

        We intend to selectively pursue acquisitions and/or equity investments in businesses that represent a strategic fit and are consistent with our overall growth strategy. Such partnerships would allow us to accelerate market penetration of our additive manufacturing solutions by enabling expansion of our


Table of Contents

product portfolio, access to new markets, and a stronger value proposition for our customers while delivering margin improvements and increased customer lifetime value. We believe that because of our core focus on engineering and technology development as well as our unique distribution network, we will be able to integrate and drive adoption of new technologies and capabilities acquired via strategic partnerships.

Our Competitive Strengths

        We are a pioneer in the additive manufacturing industry with a mission to make the technology accessible to all designers, engineers, and manufacturers. We believe our collective expertise coupled with the following competitive strengths, will allow us to maintain and extend a leadership position in next-generation additive manufacturing and expand our market opportunity:

Differentiated and proprietary technology platform

        Over the last five years, we have invested significant resources in developing proprietary technologies across hardware, software and materials science to accelerate the widespread adoption of additive manufacturing. These technologies serve as the foundation of our additive manufacturing solutions. Our key print process innovations include:

        In addition to these process innovations, we have developed purpose-built, proprietary sintering technology that delivers industrial-strength sintering in an office-friendly package as well as breakthrough sintering process simulation software. These fundamental technologies represent the cornerstones of our future product introductions and are critical to enhancing our existing offerings. Elements of these technologies and processes are protected by our know-how and by over 120 patents or pending patent applications.

Broad product portfolio

        Every organization has a different challenge or application that drives its consideration of additive manufacturing. We offer our customers a range of solutions spanning multiple price points, materials, throughput levels, operating environments, and technologies to enable businesses to find the solution that solves their specific pain point and achieves their goals. Our broad product portfolio covers a spectrum of use cases, scaling with customer needs from entry-level, office-friendly additive manufacturing systems for low volume production of metal or composite parts to high-end, industrial additive manufacturing systems for mass production of low-cost metal parts. In addition, it eliminates the need for customers to source products for different applications from multiple third-party vendors, giving us a market advantage relative to competitors with a more limited set of solutions.


Table of Contents

High printer throughput

        We believe that our proprietary SPJ technology and each of our binder jet product platforms enables the highest rate of metal parts production among competing additive manufacturing systems for a given layer resolution. The Production System, which is designed to achieve print speeds of up to


Table of Contents

12,000 cubic centimeters per hour at a 65-micron printed layer height, can enable customers to manufacture up to hundreds of thousands or even millions of parts per year using additive manufacturing, unlocking new applications due to improved part costs and enhanced design flexibility. Our additive manufacturing solutions employ additional, proprietary technology innovations as a means to overcome some of the challenges that arise with high-speed metal 3D printing and ensure part consistency and accuracy. Through continued advances in underlying hardware and our own technology and processes, we believe that our products' print speeds will continue to increase, driving down the cost of parts produced on our additive manufacturing systems. This will further differentiate our solutions from competitors while also improving our ability to compete with conventional manufacturing processes at larger quantities of parts and across a wider range of applications.

Integrated, turnkey solutions

        We provide our customers with easy-to-use and end-to-end, turnkey solutions for additive manufacturing without the need for additional third-party equipment. We believe our compelling user experience across our product portfolio begins with cohesive and modern software applications for efficient printer build preparation and communication with our additive manufacturing systems, which receive feature enhancements via over-the-air or offline firmware updates. For our solutions related to metal additive manufacturing, which is a complex process that involves multiple steps to go from a digital file to a metal part, we have developed a furnace using proprietary technology purpose-built to provide industrial strength, partial-pressure and vacuum-enabled sintering in an office-friendly package. Sintering is a critical step for powder metallurgy-based metal additive manufacturing processes. Our furnace, which is designed to achieve temperatures up to 1,400 degrees Celsius and can fit through ADA-compliant doors, enables Studio System and Shop System customers with minimal additive manufacturing experience or materials expertise to process high-density, complex metal parts entirely in-house without third-party equipment required. We also provide a range of consumables and materials optimized for use with our additive manufacturing systems and designed to enable high-quality parts.

Global distribution capabilities

        We have developed an industry-leading global distribution network for our metal and composite additive manufacturing solutions consisting of over 80 resellers covering over 60 countries around the world and within a short drive of a significant portion of worldwide manufacturing sector locations. Our resellers, who have extensive experience across digital modeling, 3D printing, and metal manufacturing processes, provide marketing, sales, application engineering, and local support services for end users across an array of vertical markets. They also bring an existing base of customers into which we can drive awareness of and ultimately sell our additive manufacturing solutions.

Visionary and experienced management team

        Our management team has deep operational experience bringing emerging technologies to market across the hardware and software sectors. In engineering, we are led by accomplished and visionary technologists across the additive manufacturing, robotics, and materials science industries, including a lead inventor of binder jetting and an industry authority in powder metallurgy. Our commercialization efforts are managed by individuals with prior successes in building and growing indirect, channel-driven sales organizations.


Table of Contents

Our Product Platforms

        Since our founding in 2015, we have developed an extensive portfolio of proprietary technologies that form the foundation of our integrated additive manufacturing solutions, which are comprised of hardware, software, materials and services.

GRAPHIC

Production System

        Created by leading inventors of binder jetting and single-pass inkjet technology, the Production System is designed to be the fastest way to 3D print metal parts at scale.

        Scheduled to begin volume commercial shipments in 2021 and operational at select customers today, the Production System leverages our patent pending SPJ technology to achieve print speeds up to 12,000 cubic centimeters per hour at a 65-micron printed layer height. SPJ represents a significant step forward from conventional binder jetting, which uses multiple carriages to complete the steps required to print each layer, including depositing, spreading, and compacting a thin layer of powder in a "build box" and then depositing and drying liquid binding agent ("binder") in the regions that will form parts. The sequential nature of this conventional process adds time per layer and reduces productivity. SPJ consolidates these steps into the motion of a single print carriage over the build box while advance binder chemistry eliminates the drying step. As a result, SPJ dramatically reduces print time and increases mechanical efficiency. In addition, the Production System print carriage features a mirrored design that allows it to print bi-directionally, removing wasted motion during printing and delivering speeds up to 100 times those of legacy PBF additive manufacturing technologies. This throughput advantage is reinforced by an open material platform that allows customers to use low-cost, third-party metal injection molding ("MIM") powders. As a result, the Production System can produce parts at costs competitive with conventional mass production techniques such as casting or MIM for quantities up to hundreds of thousands of units. In addition, the Production System's process enables the re-use of reclaimed metal powder, resulting in near zero waste and further improving part costs.

        The Production System also leverages other proprietary innovations to ensure accuracy and reliability at high print speeds, including:


Table of Contents

Key Production System benefits include:

        The Production System is currently in the testing and pilot production phase of development, and we are accepting orders for the solution.

Shop System

        The Shop System introduces high-quality binder jetting to the machine shop market. With the Shop System, businesses can reliably produce serial batches of complex, end-use metal parts in a fraction of the time and cost of conventional manufacturing and comparably priced additive manufacturing technologies.

        Scheduled to begin volume commercial shipments in late 2020, the Shop System prints using a single-pass binder jetting architecture, in which a high-resolution, page-wide printhead deposits binder in a single pass over the build box and a separate carriage is used for powder spreading. The printhead technology supports small droplet sizes and high nozzle density, enabling the daily production of hundreds of intricate parts with fine features. The Shop System is a turnkey solution with software that allows customers to automatically nest up to hundreds of parts in a single print and a configurable build volume printer designed to scale to a customer's desired throughput. It also includes a powder station that supports part depowdering prior to sintering and closed-loop powder recycling as well as our furnace technology with software & profiles optimized for mid-volume throughput of parts.

Key Shop System benefits include:


Table of Contents

        The Shop System is currently in the testing and pilot production phase of development, and we are accepting orders for the solution.

Studio System

        The Studio System is an office-friendly metal 3D printing system. Integrated through Desktop Metal's cloud-based Fabricate software, the turnkey solution delivers an automated workflow for producing complex metal parts in-house via additive manufacturing.

        Shipping in volume since the fourth quarter of 2018, the Studio System leverages our proprietary BMD technology, a powder metallurgy-based additive manufacturing process in which loose powders and dangerous lasers associated with legacy PBF additive manufacturing technologies are eliminated in favor of bound metal rods extruded through a nozzle to shape parts layer-by-layer. BMD minimizes requirements for special facilities or expensive EHS equipment as compared to legacy technologies and improves ease-of-use while enabling new features such as use of closed-cell infill for lightweight strength. The Studio System consists of three key components, the printer, debinder, and furnace, each of which has been designed in-house for simple installation and ease-of-use. In addition, the furnace, which is fully-automated and sized to fit through ADA-compliant doors, is built using proprietary technology that provides industrial-strength, vacuum-enabled sintering in an office friendly package, designed to ensure uniform heating and cooling without the residual stresses introduced into parts by legacy PBF additive manufacturing processes, which can result in poor part performance. Parts produced using the Studio System also feature our patented Separable Supports technology, which enables simplified post-processing and support removal relative to legacy PBF additive manufacturing technologies.

Key Studio System benefits include:

Fiber

        Scheduled to begin volume commercial shipments in late 2020, Fiber is the world's first desktop 3D printer to fabricate high-resolution parts with aerospace- and industrial-grade continuous fiber composite tape materials used in industrial Automated Fiber Placement ("AFP") processes. Based on our breakthrough Micro AFP technology, customers can now print parts with a superior level of


Table of Contents

strength and stiffness and in a broad range of materials that traditionally required expensive, industrial AFP systems.


Table of Contents

        During the Micro AFP process, one Fiber printhead deposits a continuous fiber prepreg tape along critical load paths of a part to build dense, reinforced sections while a second printhead extrudes chopped fiber filament to build a high-resolution exterior shell. The materials used to make the resulting parts are up to two times stronger than steel at one-fifth its weight and up to 75 times stiffer and 60 times stronger than standard FFF polymer materials such as Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene ("ABS"). To switch between the printheads, Fiber uses a robotic tool changer architecture, which enables future expandability and can store up to four tools, including additional FFF heads for different materials or future enhancements.

Key Fiber benefits include:

        Fiber is currently in the testing and pilot production phase of development, and we are accepting orders for the solution.

Consumable materials

        We sell an array of consumable materials ("consumables") for use with several of our currently and soon-to-be shipping additive manufacturing systems. The sales of these materials provide us with a recurring revenue stream from customers of our additive manufacturing solutions. These materials consist of:


Table of Contents