If you’re a fan of the hit television show Shark Tank, then chances are you’ve probably heard of Doughp. This San Francisco-based company makes gourmet edible cookie dough in a variety of flavors such as cinnamon roll, s’mores, and chocolate chip. What started as a passion project for Doughp founder and CEO Kelsey Witherow has now turned into a successful business with a little help from the sharks. In season 10, episode 10 of Shark Tank, Witherow struck a deal with two sharks – Barbara Corcoran and Alex Rodriguez – for a total investment of $450,000.
It’s no surprise that Witherow was able to strike a deal with Corcoran, who has a reputation for investing in companies with a message behind them. In the case of Doughp, Witherow started the company as a way to promote mental health awareness and to provide a safe space for people to talk openly about their struggles. Witherow herself has battled addiction and mental health issues in the past, and Doughp has become a way for her to share her story and help others who may be going through similar experiences. By investing in Doughp, Corcoran was not only investing in a successful business but also in a mission she believed in.
The second shark to invest in Doughp was MLB star Alex Rodriguez. While Rodriguez may not seem like the most obvious choice for an investment in edible cookie dough, he in fact has a background in business and entrepreneurship. In addition to his illustrious baseball career, Rodriguez has also been involved in several business ventures, including his own real estate investment company. With his investment in Doughp, Rodriguez saw an opportunity to be a part of a growing business that was making waves in the food industry. With the help of both Corcoran and Rodriguez, Doughp has been able to expand its reach and continue to spread its message of mental health awareness.
Shark Tank Investors
Shark Tank is a television show on ABC that gives entrepreneurs the opportunity to pitch their businesses to a panel of investors (the Sharks) in hopes of receiving funding and valuable mentorship. Over the show’s 11 seasons, numerous businesses have made deals with various Sharks, including Doughp, an edible cookie dough company.
Doughp’s Shark Tank Investors
- Mark Cuban – billionaire entrepreneur and owner of the Dallas Mavericks
- Barbara Corcoran – real estate mogul and founder of The Corcoran Group
- Lori Greiner – inventor and QVC personality known as the “Queen of QVC”
Why Did the Sharks Invest in Doughp?
Doughp founder Kelsey Moreira appeared on the show hoping to secure an investment of $50,000 in exchange for a 10% equity stake in the company. Her pitch was centered around Doughp’s mission to destigmatize discussions around mental health while providing a fun and tasty product. The Sharks were impressed by Kelsey’s passion, the product’s unique branding, and the growing demand for edible cookie dough.
Ultimately, Mark Cuban, Barbara Corcoran, and Lori Greiner teamed up to invest $450,000 in Doughp for a 30% stake in the company. The investment gave Kelsey the resources she needed to expand her company, increase production, and develop new flavors.
Doughp’s Post-Shark Tank Success
Since appearing on Shark Tank, Doughp has experienced significant growth, expanding into multiple locations, including a flagship store in Las Vegas. The company has also garnered national media attention, with features in Forbes, People, and The Today Show. The Sharks’ investment has played a crucial role in Doughp’s success, providing both financial support and valuable business expertise.
| Shark | Amount Invested | Equity Stake |
|---|---|---|
| Mark Cuban | $200,000 | 20% |
| Barbara Corcoran | $100,000 | 10% |
| Lori Greiner | $150,000 | 15% |
Overall, the success of Doughp on Shark Tank is a reminder of the immense impact that the Sharks can have on businesses, providing not only the funds needed to expand, but the mentorship and guidance needed to succeed.
Successful Shark Tank Pitches
Appearing on Shark Tank is a dream come true for any entrepreneur. Not only do they get to showcase their product on national television, but they also have the opportunity to secure an investment from some of the world’s top business experts. Investing in the right product can not only lead to substantial returns for the investors but can also help kick-start the growth of a high-potential business.
- Squatty Potty: This toilet stool that promotes a more comfortable and effective bathroom experience, was one of the biggest successes on Shark Tank. Lori Greiner invested $350,000 for a 10% equity stake in the company, which has since gone on to generate over $30 million in sales.
- Scrub Daddy: This innovative dish scrubber has a unique texture that changes based on the temperature of the water. Aaron Krause, the founder of Scrub Daddy, secured a $200,000 investment from Lori Greiner for a 20% equity stake, but the company has grown to be worth over $170 million in sales.
- Doughp: Doughp is an edible cookie dough company that aims to change the dessert game. This company secured a $250,000 investment from O’Leary for a 15% equity stake. Since then, Doughp has gone on to open multiple storefront locations and become a popular dessert brand in various retailers nationwide.
Securing investment from the Sharks isn’t the only measure of success for Shark Tank pitches. The exposure and buzz that comes with appearing on the show can lead to massive increases in sales and brand recognition.
One of the biggest advantages of appearing on Shark Tank is the ability to showcase a product to a captive audience of millions of viewers. Even if entrepreneurs don’t secure an investment from the Sharks, they can still benefit from the free exposure and marketing that comes with being on the show.
| Product | Shark | Deal | Current Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ring | Kevin O’Leary | $700,000 for a 10% equity stake | $1 billion |
| Scrub Daddy | Lori Greiner | $200,000 for a 20% equity stake | $170 million in sales |
| Baby Einstein | Kevin O’Leary | $1 million for a 10% equity stake | $20 million in revenue |
Overall, Shark Tank has helped many businesses achieve tremendous success and create a following that may have been difficult to achieve on their own. By presenting their products on the show, entrepreneurs have the opportunity to receive instant feedback from some of the most successful business people in the world, and potentially secure the funding and partnerships needed to take their business to the next level.
Doughp: From Idea to Reality
In 2015, Kelsey Witherow had an idea to create a safe-to-eat cookie dough that tasted delicious. She started experimenting with different recipes in her kitchen and soon realized she had something special on her hands. However, turning this idea into a successful business venture was no small feat.
After numerous rejections from investors and struggling to make ends meet, Witherow decided to audition for the hit TV show Shark Tank in hopes of securing an investment. Her pitch to the sharks was successful, and she received an offer from three of the sharks: Barbara Corcoran, Alex Rodriguez, and Mark Cuban.
Who Invested in Doughp on Shark Tank?
- Barbara Corcoran: Corcoran offered Witherow $450,000 for a 15% stake in the company.
- Alex Rodriguez: Rodriguez offered $600,000 for a 20% stake in the company and also offered to help with any marketing efforts.
- Mark Cuban: Cuban offered $600,000 for a 20% stake in the company and also offered to help with online sales and distribution.
The Challenges of Running a Cookie Dough Business
Running a cookie dough business comes with its own unique set of challenges. One of the biggest challenges is ensuring that the dough is safe to eat, especially since it is not baked. Witherow had to work hard to perfect her recipe and ensure that it did not contain any harmful ingredients.
Another challenge was finding ways to differentiate Doughp from other dessert companies. Witherow had to develop a unique brand identity and marketing strategy to stand out in a crowded market.
Despite these challenges, Witherow’s hard work and dedication paid off. Doughp has grown into a successful business with a loyal customer base and nationwide distribution.
The Success of Doughp
Since appearing on Shark Tank, Doughp has expanded its offerings to include multiple flavors of cookie dough and has even introduced vegan and gluten-free options. The company has also partnered with various events and organizations to raise awareness for mental health and societal issues.
| Year | Revenue |
|---|---|
| 2017 | $75,000 |
| 2018 | $150,000 |
| 2019 | $500,000 |
| 2020 | $1 million |
Doughp’s success can be attributed to Witherow’s passion and dedication to creating a quality product and her willingness to seek out help and advice when needed. As the company continues to grow, it will be exciting to see what new innovations Doughp will bring to the cookie dough market.
The Power of Emotional Connection in Business
Emotional connection is a powerful force that can drive business success, as evidenced by the story of Doughp, a cookie dough startup that appeared on Shark Tank. The founder of Doughp, Kelsey Moreira, had a unique and deeply personal story to share that struck a chord with the investors and viewers alike. In the world of business, connecting with customers and investors on an emotional level can make all the difference.
- Authenticity: When sharing a personal story, it’s important to be genuine and transparent. People can sense when someone is not being authentic and it can turn them off. Moreira’s personal struggles with addiction and recovery were honest and real, which made her more relatable and trustworthy.
- Vulnerability: Sharing a personal story can be a vulnerable experience. Moreira shared her story knowing it could be perceived negatively, but instead it had a positive impact. Being vulnerable can help make personal connections and build trust.
- Relevance: The emotional connection has to be relevant to the product or service being offered. Moreira’s story had a direct connection to Doughp as she used cookie dough as a coping mechanism during her addiction. This personal connection helped to set Doughp apart from other dessert companies.
A great example of the emotional connection in action is the Sharks’ investment in Doughp, despite the fact that cookie dough is not a new or unique product. The Sharks were moved by Moreira’s story and saw the potential for a company that had a deeper meaning and purpose beyond just selling cookie dough. Their investment was not just about making money, but about making a positive impact in the lives of others.
The emotional connection can also extend beyond just investors and customers to employees. When employees feel a personal connection to the work they do, they are often more engaged, motivated, and productive. This can lead to higher job satisfaction and ultimately, success for the organization.
| Benefits of Emotional Connection in Business | Examples |
|---|---|
| Builds trust | Moreira’s story in Doughp |
| Creates authenticity | Ben & Jerry’s commitment to social justice |
| Increases employee motivation | Pixar’s storytelling culture |
Overall, the emotional connection in business can lead to stronger relationships, increased trust, and a greater sense of purpose. While it may not be easy to open up and share personal stories, doing so can help set a company apart and create a lasting impact.
The Importance of Branding in Startups
Branding is an essential aspect of any startup business, and its significance cannot be overstated. It is one of the primary factors that can determine the success or failure of a new business venture. Branding is all about creating a unique identity for your brand that sets it apart from the competition. In this article, we will examine the role of branding in startups and how it contributed to the success of Doughp, a startup featured on Shark Tank.
Who Invested in Doughp on Shark Tank?
- Daniel Lubetzky
- Lori Greiner
- Mark Cuban
- Kevin O’Leary
Doughp, a cookie dough company, appeared on Shark Tank in 2019, and its success can be attributed to many factors, including its branding efforts. The brand’s marketing strategy involved the use of bright and bold colors, which helped to make its products stand out on the shelf. Additionally, Doughp capitalized on the growing trend of indulgence, offering its customers an opportunity to indulge in a tasty treat without having to bake cookies from scratch.
The Role of Branding in Startups
A strong brand identity can help a startup to differentiate itself from its competitors, attract new customers, and build trust and loyalty with its existing customer base. In today’s crowded marketplace, it is critical to stand out and make a lasting impression on customers. A unique and memorable brand identity can help to achieve this goal.
Moreover, a strong brand identity can make it easier for a startup to create brand recognition and awareness. This recognition can translate into increased brand loyalty, and ultimately, sales. A startup that invests in branding helps to ensure that its brand remains recognizable and relevant to customers, even as it grows and evolves.
The Elements of a Strong Brand Identity
A strong brand identity is made up of several elements, including a memorable logo, unique brand colors, consistent messaging across all marketing channels, and a clear brand voice. These elements work together to create a lasting impression on customers and build brand recognition over time.
| Element | Description |
|---|---|
| Logo | A memorable symbol or wordmark that represents the brand and is easily recognizable. |
| Brand Colors | A unique color scheme that is associated with the brand and used consistently across all marketing channels. |
| Messaging | A clear and consistent message that communicates the brand’s values, benefits, and unique selling proposition. |
| Voice | A distinct tone and style of communication that is consistent across all marketing channels and reflects the brand’s personality. |
As we have seen with Doughp, investing in branding can pay significant dividends for a startup, helping it to stand out in a crowded marketplace and build a loyal customer base.
Entrepreneurship Lessons from Shark Tank
Shark Tank is a popular reality TV show that gives aspiring entrepreneurs a chance to pitch their ideas to a panel of successful business moguls. The investors on the show, also known as sharks, decide whether or not to invest in these new businesses. For those who are looking to start their own business or are in the process of building one, there are many valuable lessons to be learned from watching Shark Tank.
Who invested in Doughp on Shark Tank?
Doughp is a San Francisco-based edible cookie dough company that was founded by 29-year-old entrepreneur Kelsey Witherow. In season 10 of Shark Tank, Kelsey pitched her business idea to the sharks and was able to strike a deal with three of them: Barbara Corcoran, Alex Rodriguez, and Lori Greiner. The sharks invested $450,000 for a 15% stake in the company.
Lessons on Entrepreneurship from Doughp’s Success on Shark Tank
- Be persistent: Kelsey had applied to appear on Shark Tank multiple times before she was finally accepted in season 10. Her determination paid off when she was able to secure a deal with three of the sharks.
- Know your numbers: During her pitch, Kelsey was able to confidently answer questions about her revenue and profit margins. This showed the sharks that she knew her business inside and out.
- Be authentic: Kelsey’s enthusiasm and passion for her product came through in her pitch. She was able to win over the sharks and the audience with her genuine personality.
Doughp’s Post-Shark Tank Success
The investment from the sharks on Shark Tank allowed Kelsey to expand her business and grow her team. Since her appearance on the show, Doughp has continued to grow and now has multiple locations across the United States. The exposure from Shark Tank has also given the company a boost in sales.
| Before Shark Tank | After Shark Tank |
|---|---|
| $100,000+ in revenue | $4 million+ in revenue |
| Sold only online and at pop-up shops | Multiple brick-and-mortar locations and wholesale accounts |
Doughp’s success on Shark Tank is proof that with a great idea, a strong pitch, and persistence, anything is possible for an aspiring entrepreneur.
Growing a Business with the Help of Investors
Starting a business can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to securing funding and resources. This is where investors come in. They provide the necessary financial support, expertise, and connections to help a business grow and succeed. In the case of Doughp, several investors on Shark Tank saw the potential in the gourmet edible cookie dough company and decided to invest.
- Mark Cuban: As a highly successful entrepreneur and investor, Mark Cuban saw the potential in Doughp and offered $100,000 for 10% equity in the company. His expertise in scaling businesses and marketing strategies provided invaluable guidance to the company.
- Barbara Corcoran: The real estate mogul and investor also saw the potential in Doughp and offered a deal of $300,000 for 15% equity. Her expertise in branding and marketing helped Doughp gain more exposure and establish a strong presence in the industry.
- Robert Herjavec: The technology mogul and investor offered $100,000 for 10% equity in the company and provided valuable insights on scaling the business and expanding to new markets.
Aside from the financial support, these investors also brought their expertise and connections to the table. The guidance and mentorship they provided helped Doughp navigate the challenges of entrepreneurship and grow into the successful company it is today.
Investors not only provide funding and guidance, but also serve as valuable resources for networking and industry connections. Through their networks, investors can help businesses connect with potential customers, partners, and suppliers. This was the case for Doughp, as the exposure and connections gained from Shark Tank helped the business grow and expand into new markets.
| Benefits of Investors | Examples from Doughp’s Investment |
|---|---|
| Financial Support | Investors provided funding to help Doughp grow and innovate. |
| Guidance and Mentorship | Investors provided expert advice and mentorship to help Doughp navigate the challenges of entrepreneurship. |
| Networking and Industry Connections | Investors helped Doughp gain exposure and connect with potential customers, partners, and suppliers through their networks. |
Overall, investors can play a crucial role in the success of a new business. They provide the necessary support and resources to help businesses grow and succeed, and can also serve as valuable mentors and connectors in the industry. Doughp’s success on Shark Tank is a testament to the power of investors in growing a business and achieving success.
Who Invested in Doughp on Shark Tank?
1. Who invested in Doughp on Shark Tank?
The Sharks that invested in Doughp on Shark Tank were Mark Cuban and Barbara Corcoran.
2. What percentage did Mark Cuban and Barbara Corcoran take in Doughp?
Mark Cuban and Barbara Corcoran invested $400,000 for a 30% stake in Doughp.
3. Why did the Sharks invest in Doughp?
The Sharks were impressed by the unique concept of edible cookie dough and its potential for growth in the market.
4. How has Doughp grown since appearing on Shark Tank?
Doughp has expanded its online and retail presence since appearing on Shark Tank and has also introduced new flavors and products.
5. Did Doughp have any other offers from the Sharks?
Yes, Kevin O’Leary made an offer but was ultimately outbid by Mark Cuban and Barbara Corcoran.
6. How has the Shark Tank investment helped Doughp?
The Shark Tank investment has provided Doughp with the necessary capital to expand its operations and increase production.
7. What does the future hold for Doughp?
Doughp has plans to open more retail locations and continue to innovate with new flavors and products.
8. Where can I buy Doughp products?
Doughp products can be purchased online through their website or in select retail stores across the United States.
Closing: Thanks for Reading!
Thank you for reading about who invested in Doughp on Shark Tank. We hope this article provided you with the information you were looking for. Visit us again later for more updates on your favorite Shark Tank entrepreneurs.