The Origins And Inspiration For Shark Tank

“Shark Tank” is a popular reality TV show that features entrepreneurs pitching their business ideas to a panel of wealthy investors, known as “sharks,” in hopes of securing investment funding.

The show provides a platform for entrepreneurs to gain exposure, funding, and valuable business advice from experienced investors. Here’s a detailed overview of the show:

Shark Tank Format

  1. Pitch: Entrepreneurs present their business ideas, products, or services to the sharks. They usually start with a brief presentation, followed by a demonstration or sample of their product.
  2. Q&A: The sharks ask questions about the business, covering aspects such as financial performance, market potential, competition, and business strategy.
  3. Offers and Negotiations: If a shark is interested, they make an offer, which can involve equity, royalties, or other terms. Entrepreneurs can negotiate the terms, accept an offer, or decline if the terms are not favorable.
  4. Deal or No Deal: The segment concludes with the entrepreneur either securing a deal with one or more sharks or leaving without an investment.

The Sharks (Judges)

The panel of sharks consists of successful businesspeople and investors. Some of the regular sharks include:

  • 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 “Queen of QVC” with over 120 patents.
  • Robert Herjavec: Technology entrepreneur and cybersecurity expert.
  • Daymond John: Founder of the fashion brand FUBU.
  • Kevin O’Leary: Investor known as “Mr. Wonderful,” known for his tough negotiating style.

Impact of Shark Tank

  1. Exposure: Being on “Shark Tank” provides entrepreneurs with significant exposure to a wide audience, which can lead to increased sales and brand recognition even if they do not secure a deal.
  2. Investment: Entrepreneurs can receive substantial financial investments, which can help them scale their businesses.
  3. Mentorship: The sharks offer valuable advice and mentorship, leveraging their extensive experience and networks to help the businesses grow.
  4. Success Stories: Many businesses that have appeared on “Shark Tank” have gone on to achieve significant success, with some becoming household names.

Behind the Scenes of Shark Tank

  • Selection Process: Entrepreneurs apply to be on the show through an online application process. A casting team reviews applications, and selected entrepreneurs go through several rounds of auditions before appearing on the show.
  • Filming: The show is filmed over a few days, with multiple pitches recorded. Not all pitches make it to the final broadcast.
  • Deals: After a deal is made on the show, due diligence is conducted off-camera. Some deals may change or fall through during this process.

Global Versions of Shark Tank

“Shark Tank” originated in Japan as “Tigers of Money” and has since been adapted in various countries under different names, such as “Dragons’ Den” in the UK and Canada, and “Shark Tank” in the US, Australia, and other regions.

“Shark Tank” has become a cultural phenomenon, inspiring entrepreneurs and providing insight into the world of business and investment.

The Origin & History of Shark Tank

Shark Tank, the popular reality TV show, has its roots in Japan. The original format, “Money Tigers” (, Moneī tigā), was developed by Tokyo Broadcasting System (TBS) and Fuji Television in 2001. The show was renamed “Dragon’s Den” (, Doragon za-den) when it premiered in Japan in 2005.

The concept was later acquired by Sony Pictures Television and adapted for international markets, including the United States, under the title “Shark Tank,” which premiered in 2009. The show’s format has since been licensed to over 200 territories worldwide.

Why Is Shark Tank Called That?

Shark Tank is called that as a reference to the intimidating and competitive nature of its panel of investors, who are often referred to as “sharks” on the show. This term is used to symbolize their aggressive and assertive approach when reviewing and considering investment opportunities presented to them by entrepreneurs.

The name “Shark Tank” is also a play on words, as it refers to the setting for the presentations as well as the show’s focus on business and investment, aligning with the metaphor of sharks in a tank. The original title of the show, “Money Tigers,” reflects the similar fierce and competitive nature of the investors’ interactions with entrepreneurs.

Shark Tank Original Cast

The original cast of Shark Tank, which premiered in 2009, consisted of five business moguls who reviewed entrepreneurial proposals and invested their own money in promising ventures.

The cast included Kevin Harrington, the original “shark” who left after the first season; Mark Cuban, the owner of the NBA’s Dallas Mavericks; Kevin O’Leary, aka “Mr. Wonderful”; Daymond John, a fashion industry expert; Barbara Corcoran, a real estate mogul; and Robert Herjavec, a technology entrepreneur.

These iconic figures brought their unique perspectives and business acumen to the show, making it a groundbreaking and entertaining program.