Green Entertainment has made history with Shark Tank Pakistan, and today marks the final episode of its first season. Through this show, the network has provided a platform for entrepreneurs to share their innovative ideas and turn their dreams into reality.
The final episode of Shark Tank Pakistan brought thrilling pitches, ideas, and inspiring entrepreneurs ready to reshape Pakistan’s business future!
Pitch No. 1
The first pitch of the last episode of Shark Tank Pakistan introduced Queen Extension, a Balochistan-based startup by Kashmala Ali and her team member Amara Yusufzai. As Pakistan’s first professional hair extension business, Queen Extension aims to fill a significant gap in the hair fashion industry. Kashmala, a US-certified hair extension artist, sought an investment of 50 lakhs in exchange for 10% equity to expand her operations, open a studio, and introduce a product line, including a hair mist. The duo emphasized their mission to empower women in Balochistan by offering training and certification to help them achieve financial independence.
Queen Extension has carved a niche in the underexplored hair fashion industry of Pakistan by providing high-quality, 100% human hair extensions. The startup caters to a market largely ignored by other fashion industries, such as clothing, jewelry, and footwear. Kashmala’s initiative not only sells hair extension products but also offers services and training to elevate the industry standards. By sourcing raw materials from China and producing locally, the business has managed to achieve remarkable milestones, including a revenue of 2 million in the first year and 3 million in the current year, despite operating from home without a dedicated studio.
The Sharks admired Kashmala’s passion and the social impact of Queen Extension, but Junaid and Rabeel stepped out, citing the industry wasn’t their niche. Usman, Romanna, and Aleena offered 50 lakhs for 30% equity and 30% royalty, which Kashmala countered with 15% equity. After negotiations, the Sharks revised their offer to 27% equity, but Kashmala and Amara declined, believing in the business’s potential and value. Ultimately, no deal was made, but Kashmala earned respect for her determination and vision.
Pitch No. 2
AIBL Innovators, led by Hasnain Khan and co-founded by Ali Raza Mohsin, is a groundbreaking venture focused on developing active, smart lower-limb prosthetics. During their pitch, Hasnain shared his inspiring personal story, revealing that he was born with a disability that motivated him to create innovative solutions for others facing similar challenges. AIBL leverages advanced artificial intelligence and brain-controlled technology to design prosthetics that provide enhanced mobility and functionality for individuals with limb disabilities.
The founders emphasized the need for guidance in scaling their impactful business. While they didn’t ask for financial investments, they offered the Sharks 1% advisory shares in exchange for their time and expertise. They sought mentorship to streamline their company’s finances, structure, and supply chain management. The boldness of their pitch and the nobility of their cause were evident as they highlighted how their innovation could change countless lives and place Pakistan at the forefront of the prosthetic technology industry.
The Sharks were deeply moved by Hasnain’s story and impressed by the ingenuity behind AIBL Innovators. They unanimously applauded the team for tackling such an underserved yet critical sector with cutting-edge technology and a mission-driven approach. Recognizing the significant social impact of the business and the founders’ determination, all Sharks decided to join the deal. They committed their time and knowledge to help AIBL Innovators achieve their vision of empowering individuals with disabilities and revolutionizing mobility through technology.
Pitch No. 3
Abdullah Hidayatullah, Founder and CEO, along with Tahir Khan, COO, introduced Smart Digital Lockers, a top-quality electronic security solution designed to revolutionize the delivery and storage experience for consumers. Addressing a pressing issue in e-commerce, Abdullah highlighted the growing problem of secure deliveries when customers are not at home. Smart Digital Lockers offer a practical solution by providing safe, high-tech lockers where online orders can be securely delivered. With their innovative subscription-based model, the lockers cater to individuals and businesses alike, offering reliable storage and delivery options that ensure convenience and security.
The founders revealed that the business had an investment of just 2 lacs to date but had managed to establish a solid foundation for growth. To take their vision to the next level, they sought 1 million in exchange for 10% equity. They emphasized the scalability of their product and its potential to transform the e-commerce landscape by offering unmatched convenience for both delivery services and customers. Abdullah and Tahir made a strong case for their technology-driven approach, aiming to solve a universal problem while maintaining high standards of quality and innovation.
The Sharks were impressed by the founders’ clear vision, entrepreneurial spirit, and ability to address a significant gap in the market. Romanna and Rabeel both offered 1 million for 10% equity, while Aleena proposed 1 million for 9% equity. Junaid and Usman opted to step out. Abdullah, recognizing the synergy between Romanna and Rabeel’s expertise, proposed that they combine their offers to jointly invest 1 million for 10% equity. Both Sharks agreed, sealing the deal and expressing confidence in the potential of Smart Digital Lockers to make a lasting impact on the e-commerce and security industries.
Pitch No. 4
Pakhtun Wardrobe, founded by Haris Badar in Swat, is a brand that bridges the gap between traditional artisans and modern markets. Specializing in handcrafted Peshawari chappals and shawls, the company has created innovative, first-of-their-kind products like digitally printed shawls and cork-soled chappals. With a strong commitment to supporting local artisans affected by insurgency, Haris transformed his vision into a flourishing e-commerce business. Since its inception in 2020, Pakhtun Wardrobe has generated over 15 crores in revenue, with a projected annual turnover of 6 crores.
Haris pitched on Shark Tank Pakistan, seeking 9 million rupees for 5% equity, showcasing a passion for ethical craftsmanship and a deep understanding of market needs. The pitch sparked interest among the sharks, leading to a competitive round of offers. Haris highlighted Pakhtun Wardrobe’s unique selling points, including exceptional product quality, innovative designs, and an efficient e-commerce model.
Faisal Aftab made the first offer by proposing 9 million rupees in exchange for 18% equity and a hefty 50% royalty. Meanwhile, Junaid Iqbal presented a more balanced offer of 9 million for 15% equity, with a comparatively modest 10% royalty. Rabeel followed suit, offering 9 million in exchange for 15% equity and 7% royalty, clearly aiming for a more appealing structure. As the offers came in, Haris was quick to respond. He countered Junaid and Aleena’s offer by proposing a royalty reduction to just 5%. Junaid and Aleena revised their proposal to make it more attractive, offering 9 million in exchange for 12% equity and 7% royalty. Haris evaluated the adjustment and, after careful consideration, accepted the deal.
Pitch No. 5
13-year-old Eman, along with her mother Zunaira and grandmother Abar Jahan, stepped onto the stage to present their innovative venture, Earth Warriors. Eman demanded 46 lacs in exchange for 10% equity in her eco-friendly doll business. The dolls, named Fizza and her fellow characters, serve an educational purpose by teaching children about climate change and environmental sustainability. With a revenue of 4 million generated over the past three years, Earth Warriors has also established a MOU with Bacha Party to sell 500 dolls each month, translating to an impressive annual sale of 6,000 dolls. Additionally, the brand is selling 3,600 dolls globally per year and has plans for further partnerships, projecting a revenue of ₨17.84 million.
Earth Warriors stands out in the toy industry with its commitment to environmental education. The dolls are not just toys; they aim to empower the youth by fostering awareness about critical environmental issues. Each doll is crafted from eco-friendly materials, highlighting the importance of sustainability in today’s world. The product line not only appeals to children but also aligns with parents’ desires to educate their kids on climate change through engaging play. Eman’s entrepreneurial spirit, supported by her mother and grandmother, brings a unique perspective to the market, making a positive impact on the environment while delivering high-quality products.
As the Sharks assessed the potential of Earth Warriors, Usman, Rabeel, Aleena, and Junaid opted out but expressed their best wishes for Eman and her venture. Romanna, however, saw the value in the business and offered 46 lacs for 38% equity. Eman countered with a request for 25% equity, prompting Romanna to adjust her offer to 35%. The negotiations continued as Eman proposed 28% equity, leading Romanna to offer 30%. Ultimately, a deal was struck, securing the investment Eman needed while allowing her to maintain a significant stake in Earth Warriors.
As we draw a close to Season 1 of Shark Tank Pakistan, we extend our best wishes to all the entrepreneurs who secured deals and the sharks who invested in their visions. May their businesses soar to new heights and inspire others in the entrepreneurial journey.
About Sharks AKA The Investors In Shark Tank
- Rabeel Warraich, a former Morgan Stanley analyst, founded Sarmayacar, Pakistan’s leading venture capital firm, and has invested in notable startups like Abhi, Bykea, and SimPaisa; he holds degrees from Oxford and MIT, and teaches Venture Capital & Finance at IBA in Karachi.
- Aleena Nadeem, an accomplished MIT graduate, began her career at McKinsey and Goldman Sachs before transitioning to Ventura Capital and playing a crucial role in exiting investments in Lyft; now as CEO of EduFi, she drives innovation in educational technology, leveraging her extensive experience in finance and global fintech.
- Junaid Iqbal, CEO of Salt Ventures, is a key investor in the MENAP region with a strong background in financial journalism and notable contributions to Careem’s expansion and Careem Pay development.
- Karim Teli, a distinguished 30-year-old entrepreneur and speaker, is the Managing Director of IGLOO, founder of World Radio FM Network, CEO of Big Shot Technologies & Teli Technologies, and Director of Orient Textile Mills, with degrees from Greenwich University and Boston University, and over 50 ventures to his name.
- Faisal Aftab, a distinguished Pakistani American entrepreneur, has significantly impacted Pakistan’s tech industry as the co-founder and Managing Partner of Zayn VC, with notable roles at Lakson Capital Venture, Oxon Partners LLC, Cloudstream Media, National Financial Media, MTV, and Deloitte, leading investments in startups like Haball and NayaPay.
- Romanna Dada is a distinguished entrepreneur and UK-trained barrister, featured multiple times by Forbes, with a career spanning investment banking at Morgan Stanley, Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank, QIB (UK), and Qatar Venture Capital. She transitioned to the fashion industry, founding the largest modest fashion marketplace, successfully exited in 2018. Currently, she leads a new entity within the Saudi Sovereign Wealth Fund, focusing on innovative ventures and strategic investments.
- Usman Bashir, CEO of Brake Time and Breaktime Corner Market (BTCM) LLC, is a visionary leader with over 15 years of experience, managing over 300 U.S. retail outlets, including gas stations, fast food chains, and vape shops, while also investing in hotels like Marriott, the electric vehicle industry, and retail food and beverage franchises.
