Shark Tank and its international versions have become a global phenomenon. Hundreds of hopeful entrepreneurs pitch their ideas to a panel of savvy investors. Among these entrepreneurs, some have dedicated their businesses to combating global poverty. Here are a few notable businesses where the worlds of Shark Tank alumni and poverty alleviation have powerfully converged:

5 Shark Tank Alumni Fighting Poverty

1. Yellow Leaf. Yellow Leaf impressed the Sharks with its mission to strengthen Thailand’s economy. Joe Demin discovered the hammocks during a vacation in Thailand and decided to introduce them to the United States (U.S.) market. The company hires local artisans from the Mlabri tribe, also known as the “people of the yellow leaves,” to craft each hammock. The popularity of these hammocks has even led to its feature on Virgin cruise ships. An estimated 90% of the wages paid contribute to the health, nutrition and education of a Mlabri family.
2. X-Torch. The X-Torch is a powerful flashlight and solar-powered phone charger. Although it did not secure a deal on the show, the product has succeeded in both profit and philanthropy. Communities without power or those affected by natural disasters often receive X-Torches. Several nonprofits, including Compassion International and Bethany Christian Services, distribute X-Torch products. Compassion International provides them to children in Haiti and Bethany Christian Services gives them to Venezuelan refugees. Together, Bethany Christian Services and X-Torch have supplied more than 1,000 flashlights to refugees on the Colombian border. 
3. LuminAID. This inflatable solar lantern, designed to be safer than kerosene or candles, sells as a consumer product but originally targeted countries without stable access to electricity. After securing a deal with Mark Cuban, LuminAID expanded its product line to include a variety of solar lanterns, a speaker and other survival products. LuminAID also partnered with the nonprofit Shelterbox to distribute kits containing essential supplies, including LuminAID lanterns, in disaster zones. For instance, in 2016, LuminAID distributed 2,000 lights to earthquake victims in Nepal. Additionally, the company has partnerships with Doctors Without Borders and organizations under the United Nations (U.N.).
4. Grace and Lace. The company donates a portion of its proceeds to build orphanages in India. After securing a deal with Barbara Corcoran, the venture expanded rapidly. To date, Grace and Lace have constructed 12 orphanages and a school in India, as well as a shelter in Nepal for women and children who are victims of trafficking. Initially selling only socks, the company has grown into a full women’s apparel brand, offering dresses, blouses, bags and more.
5. TaDAH Foods. TaDAH Foods surprised the Sharks by announcing that it donates 25% of its profits to multiple charities dedicated to social change, notably the Meant 2 Live Foundation, which aims to lift children out of extreme poverty. It specializes in healthy falafel street wraps in various flavors. With more than $10 million in lifetime sales, the brand has thrived with the help of Shark Tank’s guest shark Daniel Lubetsky. Through its donations to Meant 2 Live, it sponsors more than 200 Zambian children.

Looking Ahead

Shark Tank and its international counterparts have showcased entrepreneurs dedicated to fighting global poverty through innovative solutions. Businesses such as Yellow Leaf, X-Torch, LuminAID, Grace and Lace and TaDAH Foods demonstrate how entrepreneurial ventures can potentially make significant social impacts by supporting vulnerable communities and addressing critical needs. These companies have provided sustainable livelihoods, essential resources and humanitarian aid, highlighting the transformative potential of socially conscious business practices. As more entrepreneurs follow suit, the intersection of business and social good promises to foster greater economic and social change worldwide.

– Meredith Wyrick

Meredith is based in Magnolia, TX, USA and focuses on Good News and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr