Jaws dropped as original 'Shark Tank' celeb judged the UC New Venture Championship

Renowned as one of the original "sharks" from ABC's acclaimed series "Shark Tank," Kevin Harrington recently brought his expertise to the UC New Venture Championship 2024 as a judge.

The "Shark Tank"-inspired competition, hosted by the UC Center for Entrepreneurship, embraced Harrington, a Cincinnati native and former UC Bearcat, lending his insights to the challenge. Beyond his role on "Shark Tank," Harrington is celebrated globally as a speaker, author and mentor, solidifying his status as a prominent figure in the entrepreneurial world.

"Returning to my roots in Cincinnati brings a profound sense of fulfillment. As a former Bearcat, it's not just about revisiting familiar places but about embracing the joy of giving back. Sharing insights with students is more than just imparting knowledge; it's about igniting their potential and paying forward the opportunities that once shaped me,” Harrington said.

Often hailed as the trailblazer of infomercials, Harrington revolutionized the industry by cleverly repurposing untapped airtime on cable channels, transforming it into a groundbreaking concept and ultimately, a billion-dollar enterprise.

Becoming a leading entrepreneur and business luminary began in Harrington’s youth when he launched his first business endeavor — a driveway sealing operation — while still in high school. Over the course of more than three decades, he has pioneered over 500 products and ventures, driving entrepreneurial initiatives that have collectively generated an astounding $5 billion in global sales.

Emulating the TV show, UC student entrepreneurs showcased their innovative business concepts, services and technological advancements in a brief presentation that lasted no more than six minutes.

They pitched their ideas to Harrington and the esteemed panel of judges, including Chuck Hall, principal and chairman of Vitality Living; Abby McInturf, co-founder of Band Connect; Rob Richardson, founder of DisruptNow; and Tony Zingale, investor, UC board member, Serial CEO — each vying for a portion of a $20,000 cash prize.

Nine student teams pitched to judges:

1. Motiv: Streamlining communications between student-athletes, coaches and parents
2. PhizzIO: Automating the physical therapy industry to increase patient outcomes
3. Girls CAN: White-labeled platform to provide mentorship to women and girls
4. Minnow: IOT device that detects and automates pool chemical needs
5. bēginn: Prenatal planning platform
6. CaTable: Physical game table for board games
7. X-inator: CleanTech energy solution 
8. ParkEV: Airbnb for electrical vehicle charging​
9. Junietta: Portable music synthesizer​

“Having a globally recognized Bearcat founder like Kevin Harrington engaged with our center’s signature business competition, New Venture Championship, was a thrilling opportunity for our young entrepreneurs,” said Kate Harmon, executive director of the Center for Entrepreneurship. “Our student founders were excited to gain insight, guidance and learning from the man who launched and scaled so many recognized household products that have gone on to become legendary, best-selling brands.”

Featured image at top: Kevin Harrington promo shot. Photo/Kevin Harrington