When entrepreneurs take the stage in Shark Tank, they’re hoping to reel in a deal. But sometimes, passing on the pitch can lead to even greater success. Here are five standout U.S. companies that flourished despite sharks swimming away.
1. Ring (formerly DoorBot)
Originally called DoorBot, Jamie Siminoff pitched the smart doorbell in Shark Tank Season 5. Sharks, including Mark Cuban, balked at its valuation and unproven status, offering deals that didn’t align—and Siminoff walked away without an investor. The company rebranded to Ring and exploded in the home security market. By 2018, Amazon acquired Ring for approximately $1 billion, proving the Sharks had missed a major opportunity.
2. The Bouqs Company
In Season 5, The Bouqs Company pitched its farm-to-table flower delivery service. Sharks passed, citing doubts about logistics and margins. But the exposure and business model paid off: today, The Bouqs boasts around $60 million in revenue, with an estimated valuation nearing $600 million.
3. Kodiak Cakes
Kodiak Cakes—known for protein-packed pancake mixes—appeared on Shark Tank in 2014. Despite growing momentum and $300K in sales, the Sharks balked at the crowded breakfast market and offered unfavorable terms. Instead, Kodiak took control of its destiny and surged ahead to reach about $100 million in lifetime sales, with a full expansion into frozen breakfasts, oatmeal, bars, and more.
4. Plated
This meal-kit startup pitched in Season 5 and struck a deal with Mark Cuban—but the agreement fell through. The founders then secured a different investment and continued scaling aggressively. By 2015, Plated was projecting over $100 million in revenue, culminating in a $300 million acquisition by Albertsons in 2017.
5. Burlap & Barrel
Some companies don’t need a Shark check to succeed. Burlap & Barrel, a specialty spice company, didn’t land an investment—but the exposure alone nearly doubled its sales to $9 million. It’s a reminder that Shark Tank’s visibility can be just as valuable as funding.
Takeaway for entrepreneurs: A “no” from the Sharks isn’t a death sentence. Whether it’s savvy self-execution, smart pivoting, or the power of national exposure, missing a deal can sometimes be the best outcome. For finance-minded readers, these stories highlight a critical truth: valuation and fit—more than just capital—can make or break a venture.
