“Shark Tank” is an American reality TV show that follows aspiring entrepreneurs as they pitch their business ideas to a panel of successful investors, known as “Sharks,” in the hopes of securing funding for their ventures. The concept of the show is based on the Japanese show “Dragons’ Den,” created by Nippon Television Network Corporation.
The Sharks on the show are self-made millionaires and billionaires who have made their fortunes through various industries, including technology, fashion, real estate, and venture capitalism. They are Mark Cuban, Barbara Corcoran, Lori Greiner, Robert Herjavec, Daymond John, and Kevin O’Leary. Each Shark has their own unique investing style and areas of expertise.
The name “Shark Tank” for the show is a play on words, referencing both the predatory nature of the investors, who are often referred to as “sharks” in the business world, and the physical tank that the entrepreneurs must enter to pitch their business ideas to the sharks.
The term “shark” has long been used to describe aggressive and successful business people who are willing to take risks to achieve their goals, and the show’s title reflects this competitive spirit. The concept of the show is to see if the entrepreneurs can survive in the “shark tank” and convince the investors to invest in their businesses, making it a fitting and memorable name for the show.
During each episode, entrepreneurs have a few minutes to pitch their ideas to the Sharks and answer any questions they may have. The Sharks then decide whether or not to invest in the business, negotiate deals, and compete against each other for the best opportunities. Successful deals made on the show include Scrub Daddy, Tipsy Elves, and Squatty Potty.
Since its premiere in 2009, “Shark Tank” has become a cultural phenomenon and has played a significant role in inspiring and promoting entrepreneurship in America. The show has received numerous Emmy awards and nominations, including four consecutive wins for Outstanding Structured Reality Program from 2014 to 2017. It has also been recognized with awards from NATPE, BANFF World Media Festival, and the IRTS Hall of Mentorship.
“Shark Tank” has seen tremendous success in terms of deals made on the show, with over $100 million offered in investment deals as of 2019. The show’s popularity has also led to the Sharks becoming household names, and many entrepreneurs have gone on to achieve great success after appearing on the show.
Overall, “Shark Tank” has proven to be a successful and entertaining platform for entrepreneurs to showcase their innovative ideas and secure funding to turn their dreams into realities. The show’s continued success and impact on entrepreneurship in America make it a cultural icon and a must-watch for aspiring entrepreneurs and fans of reality TV.
How to Apply for Shark Tan USA
If you have a business idea or product that you believe is worthy of investment, you can apply to appear on Shark Tank through one of two methods: online or by attending an open call.
Apply Online
To apply online, go to the Shark Tank casting website and fill out the online application form. The form will ask you to provide details about yourself and your business, such as the name of your company, what it does, how much money you are seeking, and what you plan to do with the investment. You will also need to submit a video pitch of your business idea or product, which should be no longer than two minutes.
Attend an Open Call
Shark Tank also holds open casting calls in various cities across the United States. At these events, entrepreneurs can pitch their businesses in person to the show’s producers. To find out when and where the next open call will be held, check the Shark Tank casting website.
Regardless of which method you choose, you should be prepared to present a compelling pitch that showcases your business’s potential for success. If you are selected to appear on the show, you will have the opportunity to pitch your business to the Sharks, who will then decide whether or not to invest in your company.
Sharks at Shark Tank USA
1.Barbara Corcoran is a successful entrepreneur and real estate mogul. She has invested in many businesses and helped turn them into successful ventures. As a Shark on Shark Tank, she is known for her tough negotiations and keen business sense.
2. Mark Cuban is a billionaire entrepreneur, investor, and owner of the Dallas Mavericks NBA team. He is one of the most outspoken and controversial Sharks on the show, and has invested in a wide range of businesses, from tech startups to retail companies.
3. Lori Greiner is a prolific inventor and entrepreneur, known as the “Queen of QVC.” She has invested in numerous successful businesses on Shark Tank, and is known for her expertise in product development and branding.
4. Robert Herjavec is a technology entrepreneur and cybersecurity expert. He has invested in many tech startups on Shark Tank and is known for his analytical approach to evaluating business opportunities.
5. Daymond John is a fashion and branding expert, and founder of the urban clothing line FUBU. He has invested in numerous successful businesses on Shark Tank, and is known for his marketing savvy and business acumen.
6. Kevin O’Leary, also known as “Mr. Wonderful,” is a venture capitalist and successful entrepreneur. He has invested in a wide range of businesses on Shark Tank, and is known for his tough negotiating tactics and blunt feedback to entrepreneurs.
7. Emma Grede is a recurring Shark in the eleventh season of Shark Tank USA. She is a British entrepreneur and the co-founder of Good American, a size-inclusive denim brand. Grede is also a co-founder of the marketing agency, ITB Worldwide, which connects brands with celebrities and influencers. With her experience in both fashion and marketing, Grede brings a unique perspective to the show.
8. Peter Jones CBE is another recurring Shark in the eleventh season of Shark Tank USA. He is a British entrepreneur and businessman who is best known for his appearances on the UK version of Dragon’s Den. Jones has a diverse range of investments, including technology, food and beverage, and property. With his expertise in investing and business, Jones provides valuable insights to the entrepreneurs on the show.
9. Daniel Lubetzky is a recurring Shark in the eleventh season of Shark Tank USA. He is the founder and CEO of KIND, a company that produces healthy snacks made from ingredients you can see and pronounce. Lubetzky is also a social entrepreneur who is committed to making a positive impact on the world. With his passion for health and wellness, as well as his experience in building a successful brand, Lubetzky is a valuable addition to the Shark Tank panel.
10. Gwyneth Paltrow is a recurring Shark in the eleventh season of Shark Tank USA. She is an actress, author, and entrepreneur who founded the lifestyle brand, Goop. Goop is known for its emphasis on wellness and self-care, and Paltrow has been instrumental in its success. With her experience in the world of entertainment and lifestyle, Paltrow brings a unique perspective to the show.
11. Tony Xu is a recurring Shark in the eleventh season of Shark Tank USA. He is the co-founder and CEO of DoorDash, a food delivery service that has revolutionized the way people order food. Xu has been recognized for his entrepreneurial achievements, including being named to the Forbes 30 Under 30 list. With his expertise in technology and business, Xu provides valuable insights to the entrepreneurs on the show.