How To Get Onto Shark Tank

Sarah Jenkins was just a girl with a weird habit of drinking sweet tea through an inflatable straw. Sounds ridiculous, right?

Fast forward two years, and Sarah walked onto the Shark Tank stage, nervous but determined. She walked away with a deal worth $150,000 for her novelty straw company. Pretty wild story, isn't it?

Her secret? She didn't just dream about getting on the show — she figured out what it actually takes. And honestly, that's the part most people skip over.

The Reality Check No One Gives You

Everyone thinks getting on Shark Tank is like posting an application and waiting by the phone. Spoiler alert: it's a lot more work than that.

The show receives roughly tens of thousands of applications every season. Selected that? The odds are basically a startup trying to beat Amazon on day one.

But here's the thing — being on the show isn't just about your product. It's about your story, your pitch, and your willingness to be vulnerable in front of millions of viewers.

(And yes, there will be cameras. Lots of them. They don't miss a thing.)

What Sharks Actually Look For

Lets talk about what the Sharks want, because they're not just here to collect red flags for fun — although, sometimes it feels like that.

1. A Product That Solves a Real Problem

The Sharks don't fund hobbies. They fund solutions. If your invention only makes sense to your mom, rethink the pitch.

Ask yourself: who already needs this and why can't they live without it? If you can't answer that clearly, keep working.

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2. Revenue and Traction

Here's where most applicants strike out. A great idea on paper means nothing without proof that people actually buy it.

You don't need millions in sales, but having real customers makes a huge difference. Even small numbers show momentum, and momentum gets attention.

3. A Killer Story

Nobody wants to hear how you graduated with honors and thought, "Hey, let's start a candle business." Sorry, not sorry.

Tell the Sharks why you care. Did you hit rock bottom? Did you invent something to help a loved one? Raw and real beats polished every time.

The Application Process (Yes, It Exists)

First, head over to the official Sharks Tank casting page when applications open — usually a few months before filming starts.

You'll fill out an online form, submit a video pitch, and wow — that's actually it. No, we're not joking; the process is surprisingly straightforward (at first).

But don't let the simplicity fool you. The form is your first impression, and first impressions? They're notorious for being judgmental.

Tips for Your Video Pitch

Keep it under two minutes. Use good lighting and an enthusiastic voice — nobody wants to watch someone whispering about their product.

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Show the product in action. Demonstration beats description, every single time. If I can see why it works, I already like it more.

End with a clear funding ask. Vague ideas like "I'd like some investment" make the casting team raise an eyebrow. Be specific: "I'm asking for $100,000 for 10% equity."

Getting Past the Crowd

Thousands will apply. You need to stand out without being bizarre — a balance that sounds easier than it is.

Focus on your unique angle. What makes your product different right now, not what you plan to change in five years?

Also, don't forget: confidence matters. If your pitch sounds like you're unsure, the Sharks will be too.

(Side note: practice with friends. Their honest feedback is gold — even when it stings a little.)

After the Casting Call

If your application catches their eye, you'll move to a longer video interview with the production team. Congrats — you just hit round two.

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From there, if selected, you'll be invited to a live audition day where you pitch in person. This is where syllable-counting over your presentation stops being overkill and starts being essential.

The team evaluates everything: your energy, your composure, your team (if you have one), and your willingness to handle tough questions.

A Few Things to Keep In Mind

You don't need to be a genius inventor. You just need to be prepared. Preparation separates those who dream from those who land.

Also, getting on the show doesn't guarantee a deal — plenty of entrepreneurs have walked out empty-handed. And that's okay; exposure alone can transform a struggling brand.

Finally, don't be afraid of rejection. Months of silence after your application can feel horrible, but silence doesn't always mean no — it might just mean timing.

Putting It All Together

So, how do you get onto Shark Tank? Have a product that genuinely helps people. Prove it's real, sellable, and growing. Tell your story with heart and practice your pitch until it feels natural.

Then apply, stay consistent, and don't hit back when doubts creep in — they've been dealt with by every founder who ever stood on that stage.

As Sarah Jenkins learned: the biggest risk isn't getting rejected — it's never applying in the first place.