Shark Tank, a reality TV show that airs on ABC, is one of my favorite shows to watch. There are two aspects of the show. There is the perspective of the sharks or the investors versus the perspective of the entrepreneurs pitching their ideas.

Since the first show, it became very apparent that “Mr. Wonderful” or Kevin ‘O Leary, known for “Soft Key,” is one of the sharks and a straight shooter. He is blunt and does not get emotional about money. In fact, he criticizes the entrepreneurs on national television if their idea, product, or company has no potential. This, in many ways, is a blessing in disguise for many entrepreneurs as they get the truth about a failing business that could only bring in more financial trouble. On the other hand, when there is a good idea pitched, Mr. Wonderful is often the first to jump in and make an offer. One of his deals that has been acknowledged by him as his most successful deal up until now was with a company called “Wicked Good Cupcakes.” He not only invested money, but charged a $1.00 for every cupcake sold until he made his return and then would charge 45 cents in perpetuity. Since his investment, the company has done phenomenal sales and has been featured as a success on Shark Tank updates.

Around 400 entrepreneurs have pitched ideas in the Shark Tank and nearly 50 percent have had deals struck with at least one shark. Shark Tank is a great platform for many, as it not only gives them the opportunity of acquiring investment, but also gives exposure on national television.

Mark Cuban, a billionaire and owner of NBA’s Dallas Mavericks is also one of the sharks. His style of investing is rather unique, where he invests based on the character of the person and often times gives them more than what they have asked for. I guess the saying “If you believe, you shall receive” is true in the case of Cuban’s style of investing. He invested in a company called “Simple Sugars” at $100,000 for an equity stake of 33 percent, and since his investment, the company has generated sales of over $2 million in 2013.

Daymond John, the CEO of FUBU, also appears as an investor on Shark Tank. Since his strength is retail, he is generally looking to mass market a product or strike a licensing deal. One of his deals, with Bubba Baker on Shark Tank, was a memorable one. As the passion and pitch delivered by Al “Bubba” Baker for his boneless ribs to secure $300,000 for a 30 percent equity stake from John was heart warming, Daymond put a contingency that the money will be made available only after securing a licensing deal.

Overall, the success of the show depends on how many deals are struck and the way they are struck. This show is definitely the golden ticket to the “American Dream.” For Shark Tank not only features monied investors ready to fund people’s passion projects, but it also provides entrepreneurs with a shot at fame.

Blog By Sumit Nigam