Innovative Business Pitches and Outcomes

Aug 22, 2024

Presentation by Jeff Stroop

Introduction

  • Jeff Stroop, owner of Highcon LLC
  • Seeking $500,000 for 40% equity in his business

Problem Statement

  • Jeff's experience as a fireman for 15 years
  • Need for faster water supply to fire scenes to save homes and lives

Solution: Highcon

  • Innovation: World's fastest way to connect/disconnect from a hydrant
  • Demonstration with two professional firemen:
    • Damon connects Highcon to a standard hose
    • Kevin connects a standard hose the traditional way
  • Time Comparison:
    • Highcon connects in less than 3 seconds
    • Standard connections can take 30 seconds or more
    • Highcon disconnects in 1 second

Market Opportunity

  • Over 33,000 fire departments in the U.S.
  • Significant potential for profit in this market
  • Jeff has visited 11 departments for potential sales:
    • 4 departments ready to give purchase orders
    • Others are preparing paperwork

Pricing

  • Smaller Highcon unit: $215
  • Larger unit (for steamer valve): $385
  • Average sale: 35 units per department (~$7,000 total)

Challenges and Considerations

  • Budget constraints in the fire department sector due to cuts
  • Need to convince departments to mandate the product for life-saving reasons
  • Discussion on distributing through other companies

Investment Offers and Negotiations

  • Various offers discussed:
    • Mark Cuban: $1.25 million for 100% ownership with a three-year employment agreement at $100k/year
    • Other offers include a $500,000 for a percentage and a royalty agreement

Conclusion of Negotiations

  • Jeff accepts Mark Cuban's offer (1.25 million for 100% of the company + royalties)
  • Decision seen as strategic for future growth and support in the industry

Rugged Races Presentation by Brad Scudder and Rob Dickens

Introduction

  • Seeking $1 million for 10% equity
  • Operate popular 5K obstacle course race series called Rugged Maniac

Event Description

  • Features 25 obstacles over three miles
  • Accessible to a wide audience
  • Balance between physical challenge and fun atmosphere

Financial Overview

  • Projected 2023 revenue: $4.2 million, with $1 million profit
  • Projected revenue for next year: $6.5 million, with $2.2 million profit

Competitive Landscape

  • Competing with brands like Tough Mudder and Warrior Dash
  • Emphasizes unique selling points and customer experience

Expansion Plans

  • Plans for expanding to new locations and events

Offers and Counteroffers

  • Mark Cuban offers $1.5 million for 25% equity, discussion about their dual business model
  • Final agreed offer is $1.75 million for 25% of the company after negotiations

1031 Productions Presentation by Melissa Carbone

Introduction

  • Seeking $2 million for 10% equity
  • Produces live attractions in the horror genre, including Los Angeles Haunted Hayride

Business Model

  • Seasonal attraction with high demand
  • Plans to expand to additional locations and attractions

Financial Overview

  • Current revenue from the Haunted Hayride: $1.8 million in 17 days
  • Costs: $1.2 million to produce, leaving $600,000 cash
  • Projection for next year: 3.6 million in revenue if sold out

Valuation Controversy

  • Disagreement over the $20 million valuation based on current and projected revenues
  • Sharks express concerns over risk and feasibility

Offers and Counteroffers

  • Mark Cuban offers $2 million for 40% equity
  • Melissa counters for $2 million for 20% equity, which is accepted

Key Takeaways

  • Each entrepreneur presented unique business models with varying levels of risk and potential rewards.
  • Negotiation strategies varied widely based on industry experience and perceived value of businesses.
  • The importance of addressing market needs and consumer demand was a consistent theme in the discussions.