Shark Tank has been a guiding light to many budding entrepreneurs who dreamt of making it big. This brought a revolution in the business industry and encouraged small, big, and all sorts of business persons to achieve their American Dream.
The show started in 2009 and has launched sixteen seasons including the one currently running. The show gathered huge appreciation which resulted in several international versions as well.
The entrepreneurs who appear on the show frequently captivate the sharks with their remarkable journeys and the relentless hard work they have invested in their ventures. Each pitch not only highlights innovative ideas and products but also tells a story of perseverance, struggles, and determination that often resonates deeply with the investors.
While the sharks are primarily focused on evaluating the potential for profitability and maximizing returns on their investments, there are moments when the emotional weight of the entrepreneurs’ narratives strikes a chord.
These moments can be profoundly moving, prompting even the most competitive and business-savvy investors to experience genuine empathy and compassion.
There have been instances where the heart-wrenching tales of challenges faced by the founders, ranging from personal sacrifices to overcoming significant obstacles, bring them to tears. Three such deals that made the sharks cry were Kronos from Season 6, The Tea T-Pee from Season 5, and Invis-A-Rack from Season 3.
Shark Tank Investors were brought to tears by the journey of Kronos, The Tea T-Pee, and Invis-A-Rack
The Emmy Winner show, Shark Tank, has given a new height to entrepreneurs since its inception. The ever-evolving panel of sharks provides the best constructive criticism and ideas that have helped many ventures earn substantial profits.
However, these sharks have also encountered moments when they were in tears when they heard the pitches of the following ventures:
The Tea T-Pee: A thoughtful and innovative venture, which was presented by Johnny Georges during Season 5, episode 17 in 2013, aimed at helping farmers save their trees from frost and excess irrigation water. The cause not only impressed the panel but also made Mr. Wonderful, O'Leary cry as he was awestruck by Georges's compassion towards the farmers.
Georges secured a deal with the guest judge John Paul Dejoria.
Invis-A-Rack: Invis-A-Rack featured in Season 3, episode 2 of Shark Tank and Donny McCall asked $100,000 for 10% equity. It was a foldup rack for the Cargo Truck. McCall didn't get a deal as he was pinned on putting up a manufacturing unit in the US itself which did not seem viable.
However, Robert Herjavec was touched by his determination as his father was a "factory worker" and resonated with his story.
Kronos: Philip Lapuz presented this golf putter company and asked for $150,000 for 15% equity in Season 6, episode 2. Philip struggled to get married to his fiance because he left his stable consultative job and opted to work on his venture. This made Kevin O'Leary particularly emotional who told Lapuz that his "story really moved him".
Lapuz cracked a deal with Robert Herjavec for the same amount at 30% equity.
Shark Tank Season 16 is available on ABC to watch.