Cup-A-Bug Humane Bug Catcher Shark Tank Episode Update & Net Worth

Cup-A-Bug Humane Bug Catcher Shark Tank Episode Update & Net Worth

Cup-A-Bug, founded by Justin Huang, appeared on Shark Tank Season 15, Episode 15 seeking $50,000 for 10% equity, valuing the company at $500,000. Cup-A-Bug is an innovative, humane way to catch and release insects using a cup attached to a pole with a pivot mechanism.

During his pitch, Justin highlighted the following key features of Cup-A-Bug:

• Humane Design: The device catches bugs without harming them, providing an ethical solution to unwanted insects.
• Versatility: The pivot mechanism and brush at the end of the cup make it easy to catch bugs in hard-to-reach places.
• Safety: Cup-A-Bug doesn’t require any chemicals or electricity, making it safe for use around children and pets.

Justin shared that he had launched a successful Kickstarter campaign in February 2022, selling over 800 pre-orders worth around $28,000. Additionally, three months before filming, Cup-A-Bug sold 1,200 units.

In one of the fastest deals in Shark Tank history, Mark Cuban initially offered $50,000 for 20% equity. Daymond John then matched the offer, and the two sharks competed for the deal.

Ultimately, Mark Cuban increased his offer to $75,000 for 20% equity, valuing the company at $375,000, which Justin accepted.

As of May 2024, Cup-A-Bug is still in business and continues to sell its product on its official website, Amazon, and Etsy. The company offers free shipping nationwide and has a perfect 5-star rating from six reviews.

Cup-A-Bug is preparing to launch worldwide, and if successful, the company could become a leading brand in the intelligent insect traps market, projected to reach $1.5 billion by 2030. With Mark Cuban’s support, Cup-A-Bug is poised for continued growth and success.

The estimated net worth of Cup-A-Bug is approximately $500,000, reflecting the valuation agreed upon during the Shark Tank pitch.

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What is Cup-A-Bug? How Does it Work?

Cup-A-Bug is an innovative tool designed to help people catch and release insects without harming them. Invented by Justin Huang, this product is perfect for individuals who prefer a humane approach to dealing with unwanted bugs in their homes.

The Cup-A-Bug consists of a simple yet effective mechanism: you place the cup over the insect, pull a lever, and a trapdoor closes, safely containing the bug inside. Once captured, the bug can be released outside, unharmed.

The concept behind Cup-A-Bug is simple, but its impact is profound. Many people, like Justin, feel uneasy about killing insects but are unsure how to remove them from their homes safely. Cup-A-Bug provides a solution that is both effective and humane, making it easier for people to live harmoniously with the natural world around them.

The product is made with durable materials and is designed to be reusable, offering a sustainable alternative to disposable insect traps and chemical repellents.

Cup-A-Bug retails for $40, with a manufacturing cost of around $10 and a shipping cost of $7. This pricing reflects the product’s quality and its niche market appeal.

Justin Huang, the inventive mind behind Cup-A-Bug, made a notable appearance on Shark Tank Season 15 with his innovative product designed to humanely capture and release insects.

His pitch impressed the sharks, especially Mark Cuban, who quickly offered $75,000 for 20% equity in the company.

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Since its appearance on Shark Tank, Cup-A-Bug has seen a significant boost in visibility and sales, solidifying its place in the market as a go-to solution for humane insect capture.

Following the show, Cup-A-Bug experienced a sharp increase in sales, driven by the exposure and endorsement from Mark Cuban. As of 2024, Cup-A-Bug’s net worth has risen significantly, reflecting its growing popularity among consumers who prefer humane alternatives to traditional pest control methods.

Which Episode Number was Cup-A-Bug on Shark Tank?

Cup-A-Bug was featured in Episode 15 of Shark Tank Season 15. In this episode, Justin Huang presented his humane bug catcher to the sharks, emphasizing its simplicity, effectiveness, and the growing demand for eco-friendly pest control solutions.

The episode highlighted Justin’s passion for invention and his desire to bring a kinder, gentler approach to pest management.

Cup-A-Bug Shark Tank Full Episode ; What Happened at Shark Tank Pitch?

During his Shark Tank pitch, Justin Huang demonstrated how the Cup-A-Bug works, showcasing its ability to capture insects without harming them. He explained that the inspiration for the product came from his own discomfort with killing bugs, and his desire to create a more humane solution.

The sharks were intrigued by the product, and Mark Cuban quickly identified with the need for such a device, as he mentioned that he often catches bugs in his own home.

Justin entered the tank seeking $50,000 for 10% equity, valuing his company at $500,000. He shared his initial sales figures, which included a successful Kickstarter campaign that raised $28,000 from the sale of 800 units.

In the three months leading up to his Shark Tank appearance, Justin had sold around 1,200 units of the Cup-A-Bug.

The sharks appreciated Justin’s background in engineering and his commitment to bringing innovative products to market.

Robert Herjavec asked about the product’s sales and manufacturing costs, while Lori Greiner expressed interest in the simplicity and appeal of the design. However, Mark Cuban was the first to make an offer, proposing $50,000 for 20% equity in Cup-A-Bug.

Before Justin could respond, Daymond John matched Mark’s offer and then countered with $60,000 for 30% equity.

 Sensing the potential of the product and not wanting to lose out, Mark Cuban increased his offer to $75,000 for 20% equity. This offer included not only Cup-A-Bug but also any future inventions Justin might develop.

After a brief consideration, Justin accepted Mark Cuban’s offer, valuing the opportunity to work with a shark who understood his vision and could help scale the business. The quick negotiation and Mark’s decisive action made this one of the season’s most memorable pitches.

What Happened to Cup-A-Bug After Shark Tank?

Following the Shark Tank episode, Cup-A-Bug experienced a surge in sales, thanks in large part to the exposure provided by the show and the partnership with Mark Cuban.

 The endorsement from a high-profile investor like Cuban helped to build credibility and trust with consumers, leading to increased interest in the product.

The company has continued to grow, with Cup-A-Bug now available on popular online platforms like Amazon, where it has received positive reviews from customers who appreciate its humane approach to pest control.

The product’s success has also sparked interest in potential new markets, including schools and environmentally conscious organizations that promote humane practices.

In addition to the original Cup-A-Bug product, Justin Huang has been exploring new ideas for inventions, with the support and guidance of Mark Cuban.

The partnership has provided Justin with the resources and expertise needed to take his product to the next level, ensuring that Cup-A-Bug remains a popular choice for consumers seeking a humane solution to their bug problems.

How Much Is Cup-A-Bug Worth?

As of 2024, Cup-A-Bug is valued at approximately $500,000, reflecting the company’s strong sales and the growing demand for humane pest control products. The partnership with Mark Cuban has undoubtedly contributed to this valuation, providing the company with the capital and strategic direction needed to expand its reach.

The company’s success on Shark Tank and the subsequent boost in sales have positioned Cup-A-Bug as a leader in the niche market of humane bug catchers.

With ongoing product development and potential new inventions on the horizon, Cup-A-Bug’s net worth is expected to continue rising as the company expands its product line and market presence.

Is Cup-A-Bug Still in Business?

Yes, Cup-A-Bug is still in business and continues to thrive following its appearance on Shark Tank. The company has leveraged the exposure from the show to build a loyal customer base and increase its presence in the market.

Cup-A-Bug remains a popular choice for consumers who value humane and environmentally friendly solutions for dealing with insects.

The partnership with Mark Cuban has provided Justin Huang with the support and resources needed to grow his business, and the company is currently exploring new opportunities to expand its product line.

As awareness of humane pest control continues to rise, Cup-A-Bug is well-positioned to remain a key player in this niche market.

FAQs

Which Shark Tank season featured Cup-A-Bug?
Cup-A-Bug was featured in Season 15 of Shark Tank.

Did Cup-A-Bug get a deal on Shark Tank?
Yes, Cup-A-Bug secured a deal with Mark Cuban for $75,000 in exchange for 20% equity.

How much was Cup-A-Bug asking for on Shark Tank?
Cup-A-Bug was asking for $50,000 in exchange for 10% equity.

What is the retail price of Cup-A-Bug?
Cup-A-Bug retails for $40.

What were Cup-A-Bug’s sales before Shark Tank?
Before Shark Tank, Cup-A-Bug had sold around 1,200 units in three months, following a successful Kickstarter campaign.

Is Cup-A-Bug available on Amazon?
Yes, Cup-A-Bug is available on Amazon and has received positive reviews from customers.