Inside the Dragons' Den

Contestants make Finals

Congratulations to Den contestants Jon and Anita from Rollout who just made the finals of the 2006 Telus New Ventures Competition. 

You can read the whole story here, but in the meantime, let's give them a hand!

DD: Potential Pitcher #12: KnoXcooter

Three guys from Sask. have invented something that just has to be seen.  Now I'd like your opinion, does it have to be seen by our Dragons?

Why do you want to be on the Den? We have a product that is not sold anywhere in the world. It is new ,patented ,  innovative, cool , kids love it , and we need the guidance and dollars from investors  and those people that know the business world for marketing our idea and prototype.

Why would you be a good bet for the Dragons to invest in? We feel we have a huge potential market to be addressed. There are 60,000,000 kids in Canada and the USA alone that fit our demographics. Over 20,000,000 pcs of wheeled sport  vehicles/toys  (bicycles , scooters , etc ) were imported to N.A. last year. The cost of manufacturing is low as far as we have found, and the reality is that kids like NEW STUFF, that does something different.

Why do you want to bring your product to market?  From the first time we saw the idea of a scooter in a 3 Stooges Movie , (that is self propelled other than pushing with  one leg on the ground) , we thought kids would like it. With todays technology , materials and marketing , we know it will sell. We can't take our prototype out of our garage without causing a line of kids wanting to try "That Bouncing thing". They also ask where can they get one?  Parents think its cool also. And ask..Where can I get one for my kids / grandkids?

How do you describe your product? It is a new Bounce Propelled scooter that uses your rhythm and weight to gently rock the platform of the scooter. The rear wheel is off center  creating the motion. We have also incorporated our patented "Coasting Clutch" thus having the ability to coast when going downhill or doing jumps.

How did you come up with the idea? We are 3 Stooges fans , and after watching a Stooges Western movie from the 1930's , Curly was riding on what appeared to be a horse , bouncing up and down as you hear the cloppidy clop of horses hooves.  As the camera pans back , you see Curly on this early 1900's invention , The INGO Scooter. We laughed outloud and said why doesn't someone invent a NEW and Updated model of that!  The rest was history for us. We built several prototypes and found by our kid surveys , that they didn't want to bounce all the time , so we invented the coasting clutch. It makes the Bouncescooter safer , and useful for doing the daring things kids do with these types of recreational sports.

In closing, what message would you like to send to the Dragons? We feel that after taking our product "Into the streets" , and getting the response that we have from almost everyone we meet , the Bouncescooter from KnoXcooter is the next "BIG THING". We are inventors , we need the help of serious business people that have the contacts and money to market our idea, and take it to the masses. We feel we have done our research and sweat equity  on the product, taken it to the kids, and now its time to be the first on the market with this new idea. Also , kids nowadays are hung up on computers , gameBoys , video games etc . and need the exercise that the Bouncescooter delivers, without even knowing it.

Want to see more, check this out?

Seen enough? Ok, now vote.....

Please remember as fun as these polls are they are not binding on the CBC nor the Producers of Dragons' Den

DD: Potential Pitcher #11: Ice Shark Blades

Why do you have to buy your kids both Ice Skates and InLine Skates? Why can't you just swap the blade for wheels....well now you can if Renny, our next potential pitcher gets to market.

Why do you want to be on the Den? Pure and simple, the Ice Shark Skate Blade is a dynamite product in the prototype stage. I have a patent for it in hand. I do not have the funds necessary to take my prototype, tweak it, manufacture it and market it to the end user. I can show the Dragons that it's a money-maker, that the ROI is potentially HUGE.

Why would you be a good bet for the Dragons to invest in? I have a patent. I have owned an engineering company that brought other technology to the marketplace. I understand marketing and sales, both domestic and international. I know that it's one thing to have a dream but it takes brains, a lot of drive and a ton of sweat to make that dream become a reality. This is not done alone. It requires a proper team and a clear goal. A goal whose strategy usually needs to be rewritten at least once a day until success is achieved.

Why do you want to bring your product to market? The Ice Shark Skate Blades have been designed to retro-fit over 95% of all existing in-line skates. Anyone with in-line skates can convert them to ice skates easily and quickly. If you can rotate your in-line skate wheels, you can install an Ice Shark Blade. These are aimed at the recreational skater and the parents of growing children. No more having to buy a pair of in-lines and a pair of ice skates as the kids grow out of their skates. In the end, it's all about cost. Buy a pair of Ice Sharks for $75 and save half of the price of a new pair of ice skates. Spend a few more bucks on a really comfy in-line skate boot and voila, your ice skates are really comfy!

How do you describe your product? The Ice Shark Skate Blade is an ice skate blade designed to use the axles of an existing in-line skate as an attachment point. The axles support the wheels and they also support the Ice Shark Skate Blade. The boot has now become a dual purpose unit. I envision the Ice Shark in a sexy anodized moulded aluminium body, high density, high molecular weight polyethylene slider attachments and a high carbon skate blade. This is all part of the claims in the patent.

How did you come up with the idea? It occurred to me after having to deal with equipping my growing twin daughters with two sets of skates, both in-line and ice, times two.

In closing, what message would you like to send to the Dragons? With a world skating market of over 31 million and steadily growing, The Sporting Goods Manufacturers Association survey (as of 2003) indicates that in-line skating now has more participation than football, softball, skiing, and snowboarding combined. The breakdown of participation in in-line skating is as follows: 1+% speed (growing), 8% hockey (declining), 7% extreme/aggressive (declining), 22% fitness (nearly 7 million--the fastest growing), and 61% recreational (first-timers). The Ice Shark Skate Blade is targeting the fitness and recreational groups, as they are the fastest growing. These groups are gearing themselves towards health and fitness, and combined, they can easily grow to 85% (or 26 million) of the market in the next five years. Now imagine going after just 1% of that total market. That's 310,000 pairs of Ice Sharks. At $75/pair, that's sales potential of over $23 million. Maybe 2% is a reasonable target? What do you think?

note: as always this poll is not binding on the CBC nor the Producers of the Dragons' Den

DD: Potential Pitcher #10: Jack for all Trades

Norma Bradley from the east coast is the next profile for you to vote in.  Do you think her  "Jack For All Trades" should go before the Dragons?

 

Why do you want to be on the Den? I want to bring Jack For All Trades™ to the Dragons’ Den for an opportunity to show Canadians this innovative product  If you’ve ever “homebrewed”, you would know the back-breaking strain of lifting carboys of fluid for the required siphoning process in making wine or beer over multiple times each month.  Homebrewing has become a craft over the decades and many people take great pride in their product.

Why do you want to bring your product to market? Occupational Health & Safety recommend that women lift no more than 35 pounds and men lift no more than 50 pounds.  A full carboy is 65 pounds…we know better than to continually lift it through the homebrewing process, but darn it… its gotta be done!  I think Jack For All Trades™ will encourage inventiveness in all Canadians.  I used JACK this summer to install my air conditioner which is considered a two person job.

How do you describe your product?  Jack For All Trades™ is a simple scissor lift cart on caster wheels that provides easy mobility in the home or commercial environment.  The unique patented design of the lifting wheels ensures that consumers must lower the stand to roll it around.  Homebrewing is just one worthy application for JACK.  It can also be used for handling hazardous chemicals, heavy paper packages around the office and enabling wheelchair bound individuals to move and lift many items around their home (ie: groceries, laundry, etc) without placing weight on their laps, bending, twisting and/or lifting.

How did you come up with the idea? I needed one.  Then I began the process of diagramming on everything from napkins to white boards to my kitchen fridge.  I researched and was surprised to find that there was nothing suitable on the market.  I wanted something light-weight and durable, but not an expensive two ton utility lift that would scratch up my hardwood floors!

In closing what message would you like to send to the Dragons? The time has come to introduce Jack For All Trades™.  There is market demand for the product, and Dragons’ Den will bring the exposure and interest to sell.  I am a successful business entrepreneur and ready for the challenge.  I welcome your experience and guidance.

note: The results of this poll, while helpful, are not binding on the CBC nor the Producers of Dragons' Den

DD Potential Pitcher #9: time2eat

Andrew Muirson is tired of waiting at resturants, that's why this Toronto entrepreneur wants to launch Time2EAT.ca. The question, dear readers, is...is time for Andrew to meet the Dragons?

Why do you want to be on the Den? There are many great ideas out there, but there are only a few people who actually follow through on them and bring them to life. I am one of these people.

I believe the Dragon’s Den is the perfect arena for all Canadian entrepreneurs to meet, battle it out and fight for their share of the pie. This will give the Canadian public a chance to see all of the people who sacrifice their time and money to create something that was not there before. It is the entrepreneur who keeps the lights on and puts food on the table. This is why I hold entrepreneurs in such high regard. To be able to mix with this company would be an honour indeed.

Additionally, I think this is a fantastic learning opportunity for any budding entrepreneur. I have already learned so much from this process and am thoroughly enjoying every minute of it. To be part of the show would put icing on an already delicious cake.

Why would you be a good bet for the Dragons to invest in? I am an:

1. excellent listener

2. passionate about my product

3. hard working

4. persistent

5. visionary

6. possess a great sense of humour

7. creative

8. practical

9. confident

10. intelligent

In order to become a successful entrepreneur, you need to possess these traits. After all, one may be hard working but without a vision and creativity there will be no idea. On the flip side, the simple possession of creativity does not necessarily indicate a successful entrepreneur. Without hard work and persistence nothing will get done.

Why do you want to bring your product to market? time2eat.ca is a simple and effective means to conserve time and create money.

Case Scenario: How many times have you been waiting in line to get into a restaurant. Once you are in the restaurant you are waiting again on the server. Once the server comes and takes your order you are waiting on your food. Once your food comes and you have eaten you are now waiting on your server for the bill. After all, they don’t call it waiting tables for nothing.

time2eat.ca will take the waiting away.

The scenario alone makes the idea worthy of consideration but lets produce a few facts to see why time2eat.ca will become a profitable business.

• 21,900,000 Internet users in Canada 

• 3.4 billion $$ Total Food Services Sales 

• 1.5 million Full service restaurants

• 1.3 million Limited service restaurants

• 70% of Canadians "eat out at least once per week"

The numbers speak for themselves, there is a huge market waiting to be tapped. With the right development, management and funding time2eat.ca will become an extremely profitable business with relatively small overhead.

How do you describe your product? Restaurants bring in the majority of their revenue during Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner. During these times it is imperative for the restaurant to maximize turnover rates while at the same time ensuring customer satisfaction. The challenge is that there are large numbers of people showing up during a short period of time, expecting speedy and accurate service. This rush affects the whole chain, putting stress on the servers and the kitchen, which ultimately results in slower service, unhappy customers and lost revenue opportunities.

Solution - time2eat.ca is an easy to use website allowing consumers to order their meals before going to the restaurant. This will eradicate the chronic problems consumers and restaurants currently face.

From a consumer standpoint, the time2eat.ca experience can be summarized as follows:

1 – Search

2 – Order

3 – Eat

From a business (restaurant) standpoint the benefits are numerous. Here are a few.

1 – Increase turnover rates during peak periods.

2 – Happy customers equals repeat business.

3 – Being part of a portal increases exposure.

How did you come up with the idea? Through a combination of experience in the hospitality industry (as a waiter) and computer programming.

Working in the hospitality industry allowed me to witness firsthand the bottlenecks to efficient production in a restaurant, which is that the majority of their business comes in spurts (breakfast, lunch and dinner).

After working for years as a web programmer and learning the full capabilities of the Internet, I realized that I could alleviate this bottleneck.

This is how time2eat.ca was born.

In closing what message would you like to send to the Dragons? The next time you’re hungry and waiting for your food, remember there is an alternative, time2eat.ca.

note: as always polls are non binding on the CBC and the Producers of Dragons' Den. But don't let that stop you...vote now!!!

DD Potential Pitcher #8: The Magic Banana

Potential Pitcher # 8 is Ms.Janeson Paynter Rayne from Kingston, who wants to bring a new exercise device to market for females.....something guaranteed to improve SEX! I'd say more but I'll leave it to the inventor herself to explain.

Why do you want to be on the Den…? I admire and respect smart, successful, adventurous people who follow their instincts to act on what is hot … so I look forward to meeting and doing business with these Dragons … to introducing them to an opportunity to be part of a fabulous product that I can guarantee satisfies several needs.

Research confirms, with its’ unique design, there is nothing like this on the market!

Why would you be a good bet for the Dragons to invest in? For many years I was a single mother raising two children. I had my own house and operated my own business by the time I was 24. I went to university to earn a Fine Arts Degree in my thirties, when the youngest child was three and the oldest was eight. I successfully juggled my responsibilities and always came up with creative, inventive solutions even when there were obstacles and setbacks.

I’ve spent much of my life doing research around this product. I did all the patent searches for ‘prior art’ myself (you wouldn’t believe some of the contraptions I found that men, in their good inntentions, had devised for women!). Thanks also to having excellent representation, my patent was granted without a glitch in August of 2005.

I do my homework, I’m diligent, frugal, conscientious, resourceful, and passionate – especially when it comes to bringing a vision to fruition. This one has exceptional possibilities!

Why do you want to bring your product to market? It’s already been taken to market to a certain extent and with the feedback that’s in, it’s clear that the product will work on a larger scale. The next logical step is to take it to market in a big way - through a combination of direct market sales, on internet or television (maybe Suzanne Sommers needs a new product?), or in stores like Shoppers Drug Mart. My vision has always been that it would be sold in the mainstream market - as essential equipment for females - where it would be most easily and readily available to people who want, need, and can benefit from it.

The product has a proven track record of improving quality of life. A family doctor once told me if it were available by prescription, she’d prescribe it to all women.

How do you describe your product…? It’s an exercise device - that works muscles intrinsic to being female. In younger years, it’s an educational self-discovery tool; in childbearing years, it helps women prepare FOR and recover FROM childbirth; through mid-life, menopause and well beyond, with regular use it keeps the all-important parts in good shape ... and may even still bring revelations, as some testimonials confirm! One public health nurse who sings its’ praises is reported to have told all of her co-workers "if you only buy ONE thing to enhance your sex life, buy this."

You can read more about it at either of the two sites I have developed, both of which have different flavours - one being more clinical than the other (< href="www.k-loop.com">www.k-loop.com and www.magicbanana.com ). You may notice that some of the testimonials are the same … and that is because the product is essentially the same product.

How did you come up with the idea…? It was an inspired solution to a perceived problem - the ‘problem’ being, at adolescence, I suddenly found myself in a body that was distinctly female. I felt awkward as this emerging sexual being. Until then, I had been right at home climbing trees and doing anything the boys were doing. I spent a couple of years feeling completely out of sorts and then, as a way to feel more at home in my body, I learned about and started practicing yoga. I wanted to know myself better and I wanted to understand my body. Yoga practice lead me to the realization that muscles are muscles are muscles … and that those particular muscles would probably benefit from a workout just as any other muscle would. Being familiar with isometric and resistance exercise, I knew that was the way to go...and if I could develop something that would function like a hand-grip does - that might be the answer.Eventually, it was my own mothers’ story that finally spurred me on to patent the product so manufacturing could begin.I had kept the product to myself for many years. After my step-father died of cancer, my mom told me she had to go in for the sort of surgery women have to "correct" incontinence. I had not been aware that due to my step-dad’s illness – which went on for ten years, through three different types of cancer – their sex life had suffered greatly, becoming pretty much non-existent. I couldn’t help thinking – If my Mom had had this product even a few years earlier, she might have been able to avoid surgery. When I told her about it, she felt the same way. She wished that I had talked about it, and she did not hesitate to make a financial contribution to help with the costs of patenting and manufacturing the initial run.

In closing what message would you like to send to the Dragons? A friend in public relations once told me "Your product is a gift to all women and should not languish in obscurity." Will you help make it more available, and share in the fruits of this labour of love?

note: results are not binding on the Producers of Dragons' Den nor the CBC.

DD Potential Pitcher #7

First came HOT or NOT?, then came HOT or NOT NUDE (and no, you will have to find your own link for that one)...and now....the hot or not for pets???? Yup, wait for it...wait for it... http://coolordrool.com/

We interiviwed Maria Siu to find out why she wanted to pitch the Dragons

1)  Why do you want to be on the Den…? To get the word out about this exciting new pet lovers website. I need to raise capital to position it as the "go to" website for rating pets and shoppers paradise for pet products & services. This website has worldwide mass appeal and people will love it! The media exposure will definitely let the public know about this free community service for pet lovers.

2)  Why would you be a good bet for the Dragons to invest in? I have a successful track record of sales in service and product-based industries such as financial services, IT education and ecommerce. I booked millions of dollars for a big bank that I used to work for. Now I run my own internet company and I know how to market, create buzz and generate online sales. I'm an expert at minimizing start-up and operating costs as I create, maintain and manage the content for all of my websites.

3)  Why do you want to bring your product to market? To give people a fun place to showcase and share their passion for their pets with others worldwide. It will also serve as "the" place for people to shop for new and interesting pet products & services as people love to pamper and spoil their pets!

4)  How do you describe your product…? A free pet rating website where pets are showcased and rated by visitors worldwide. Even couples can post a pet profile together, this is not a site for singles. You only have to be 13 years old to join. Members create pet profiles, pet galleries and pet blogs to help bring out their pet's personality on the Internet. Being a pet lovers community website... members can also build their Friends List, CoolPet List and message each other. Services can be expanded to include a chat room, forum and much more!

5)  How did you came up with the idea…? I noticed how popular the Hot or Not website is for rating people so I came up with one for rating pets... Cool or Drool. Nothing like drumming up friendly competition for cats vs dogs. Besides there are many kinds of pets around the world, some that people are not even aware of and would love to vote on, for example, pet beetles are very popular in Japan! Bottom line, people love showing off their pets and the internet is a great place to do so.

6)  In closing what message would you like to send to the Dragons? I know how to create "win-win" situations by giving back to the community, building value for local & global businesses worldwide for this niche market and generating a fantastic opportunity for your investment dollars. Vote for me to be on the show as unlimited people worldwide will benefit from this website, now and in the future!

NOTE: this poll is not binding on the CBC nor the Producers of the Dragons' Den.

DD: Profile of a Potential Pitcher #6: Mindy Shear

Mindy Shear from Montreal is next up in our spotlight.  This lovely entrepreneur wants to bring her unique vision of cosmetics to the world.  Now its your turn to tell us if this is the next Martha in the making.

Why do you want to be on the Den…?  I would like to be on the Den for a few reasons.  I think it is a  great program and would love to be a part of it.  I am an entrepreneur, making a difference in the business world as well as the beauty world and this is a great venue, where I can learn from others as they can learn from my experiences.  I try to get involved in all types of entrepreneurial programs locally and otherwise.  I would also like to be on the Den because I am in the process of expanding my business and I am looking for investors and this is definitely the most fun and unconventional way of doing it.  Also in my field it is all about being high profile and about press and publicity this would be great both local and nation wide for branding.

Why would you be a good bet for the Dragons to invest in? I would be a great bet for the Dragons to invest in because I am very good at what I do.  I have been doing make up for 22 years, and I have a degree in Fine Arts and combine them both.  I am innovative, outgoing, and driven.  I have a vision and I am very focused on achieving my goals.  I also have proven myself and have been successful in business and as a make up artist, now it is time to take everything to the next level based on the demand from my clients for my products and services.

Why do you want to bring your product to market? I want to bring my product and services to the market because I have already made a name for myself in Montreal. I also have many clients in other parts of Canada especially in Toronto (they keep asking me when I will open there), I also have repeat clients from the US, Israel. I have basic products and packaging in the meantime but my line is very well received because of my choice of products, colours and services.  If I embellished my products and packaging and made it more exclusive to Mindy Shear Make Up for branding, it would fly globally rather than just keeping it local. If I expanded my product line I would be able to compete with larger lines such as MAC, Bobby Brown, Nars, and Lise Watier etc.  I would also train more people for the Mindy Shear brand to provide my services and sell my products since there is such a demand for what I do and it is very hard to find qualified talented people who do more than basic make up.  It’s all about customized make up and personalized service with the cutting edge technology in make up and fashion.

How do you describe your product…? I would describe my product and services as being very sexy. In terms of products it is all about colour, texture and the amount of choice my clients have in my line to suit their needs.  My product and choice of colours and textures are great for women of all ages, and backgrounds.  I carry a lot of mineral make up which is healthy for the skin and looks natural. Mineral make up is the hottest trend in cosmetics today. My products and services are all about what women want, looking young and feeling great.  Make up that looks and feels natural, and services such as airbrush make up and semi permanent eyelashes which was only available to the stars on the red carpet since I was one of the pioneers that brought it onto the market for everyday people who want glam and flawless make up.

How did you came up with the idea…? I came up with the idea to expand my business because I am an artist and designer and I am always coming up with new ideas. I travel a lot and get to see what is hot and happening, what works and what doesn’t.  Based on that I have introduced many different products and services into my existing make up store and everything that I have introduced to my clients, have sold very well.  I also have been paying attention to make up trends, fashion trends and the market at large and came to realize that women love to shop and try new things and if they are happy with the results and product then they are very loyal.  When is comes to products, services and shopping, it is all about the experience and the good feeling.  I decided that a beauty bar concept would be very well received by women who can shop, relax, have a drink, a latte, some chocolate etc. that corresponds with the treatment or products they buy.  I need to design my packaging of my products to better suit this entire concept.  I realized having been a make up artist for 22 years, working in salons after opening my first make up store what products and services work the best, based on what women are looking for and taking it even further.  I am all about cutting edge and setting trends.

In closing what message would you like to send to the Dragons? In closing I would like to inform the Dragons that the make up industry generates billions of dollars a year.  Make up is recession proof because no matter what a women’s income is, they will always want to look younger and feel better and it is less expensive to buy or change a lipstick that can change a look instead of a wardrobe.  I would also like to express again that with my experience, innovativeness and talent in make up, my business can only thrive further and be successful.

As always while this poll is illustrative and helpful, the results are not binding on the CBC nor the producers of the Dragons' Den.

DD: Profile of a Potential Pitcher #5 - Borrow Me

Sean Young (no not that Sean Young) wants the world to stop buying more crap and start borrowing it.....through his Calgary startup BORROW ME. But this is more than just another web 2.0 start-up, it is a revolution against mass consumerism and buying more than we need. Or as the site says:

Borrow Me offers up a new formula for the good life: more value, choice & flexibility, all with less cost, consumption, pollution & clutter

And the revolution is already underway, more than 10,000 users are currently participating in beta trials. Here's what Sean has to say about his latest adventure:

Why do you want to be on the Den…? It’s about the chance to tell the story…to the people and to the investment community.  And what a great story it is!  Everyone can relate!  Everyone has bought something, used it once and put it in a box or on a shelf.  Why not borrow or rent it from a neighbor next time?

If only people could find people they could trust to rent to, or find items they need from people willing to share them.  Truth is – now they can, but most don’t know it yet.

Why would you be a good bet for the Dragons to invest in? Could there really be a chance for another eBay out there?  I believe there is.

The Entrepreneur: 

A proven ability to take a whacky idea and make it a moneymaker:  took the last business to over 10 million dollars.

The Product:

Consumers are looking for a way of out of the earn/buy trap and BorrowMe is in the perfect place at the perfect time.  Consider:

1. Consumer Backlash - Clutter, cost and environmental concerns have created a mainstream backlash against old style consumerism.
2. Debt – Consumers are under financial pressure – consumer debt has hit all-time highs even as incomes have grown. 
3. Mini-preneurs – From e-Bay stores to MLM’s everyone is looking for an opportunity for a second income.
4. Alternative Trade – New ways to give and get are poised to hit the mainstream; so says Popular Science Magazine’s 3 top emerging trends to watch in 2006.

The Business:

BorrowMe is the first, and the clear leader in this social lending market concept.  Our two-month-old private beta has strong member attraction. 11,543 people in 50 countries have already found us, and believed in the idea enough, while we were still building, to participate.  Those numbers represent the first of potentially millions of paid transactions on which BorrowMe earns transaction fees and could sell rental insurance.

Why do you want to bring your product to market? For us:  It’s time to crack wide open the ‘old consumerism’ model of buy and hide.  People are changing and they need a way to stop mad, un-necessary consumption; give the environment a break; and use their money for something more meaningful than a chainsaw and another specialized kitchen appliance.For me:  I’m ready for another big success.  One ‘A’ grade and a few ‘B’s doesn’t make a glowing report card, and frankly fall below my personal standard.  Besides, my wife deserves a break.  She’s been floating this ship too much lately.

How do you describe your product…? BorrowMe is a rental marketplace.  Somebody recently called it a kind of person-to-person ‘rent-a-center’.  Think:  eBay meets Friendster, where you borrow instead of buy – allowing friends to share and strangers to rent.  We call this aspect ‘social pricing’, and it helps set borrow prices based both on demand, and on relationship.  Example: My karaoke machine is free for friends, cheap for their friends, and a bit more for others that I trust. Folks can use BorrowMe to make money, save money or simply share things amongst a group of people (like the quilting bee, the car club or the neighbors).  Maybe it’s a meeting room, an RV, a wheelbarrow or a tent.  Pretty much anything goes.  My wife even has me listed on her ‘stuff’ as ‘one slightly used husband’.  Sometimes I test her patience.

How did you come up with the idea…? I sat in my home office above the garage and watched the cars emerge from garages and return there at the end of the day.  I witnessed first hand the ‘buy and hide’ phenomenon.  I looked in my own basement and garage at the idle clutter.  I told myself, ‘something is wrong here; something needs to change’.  I found out I wasn’t alone.  The Spiderman DVD was the first of many borrows to come; the most recent for us was a banquet table.  Our Wishlist now includes a power washer and a vacation villa in Spain so we can visit our ex-pat friend.

In closing what message would you like to send to the Dragons? BorrowMe matters.  BorrowMe is a compelling business model that can make its early supporters prosperous, but also has the potential to become a social movement.  The world is changing.  People are waking up to the social, economic and environmental costs of how we live and consume.  An effective vehicle for wide spread social sharing and a streamlined alternative to unsustainable consumerism is not only inevitable, it is BorrowMe. No, it is not an easy journey.  Yes, it is an uphill climb.  The Den is a place to tell the story and share the vision with those who can jump on this train and help fuel the fire.

This pole, wile quite enlightening, is not binding on the CBC, nor the producers of Dragons' Den.

DD: Profile of a Potential Pitcher #4 - FitChair

  Here's an interesting pitch from Daniel Rudich, who thinks his invention, the FitChair has what it takes to get us off the couch to excerise, actually scratch that.  Daniel may have what it take sto get us to stay in the lazy boy WHILE excersing. 

Why do you want to be on the Den…?I believe I have developed a unique product in the FitChair that has mass market appeal and has the potential to actually benefit society.  The product development is complete and the early orders are pilling up (including commitments from national retail chains).  All that is missing is the capital to begin manufacturing.

Why would you be a good bet for the Dragons to invest in?

1. I have built a strong reputation as a product launch specialist in the global technology and consumer products industry.  I have been the lead marketing and sales executive for many new product launches including the Compaq Proliant Servers, Iomega ZIP Drives and CAE Web Based Simulation Products.  I hold a Bachelors of Commerce degree from McGill University and an MBA from Yale University.  My ideas have made the companies I have worked for a lot of money (without boasting easily over $500 Million).  I have been waiting for the right product idea to develop on my own and the FitChair is it.
2. The product is aimed at three huge and growing markets; the overweight, the elderly and exercise equipment purchasers.  Here is a little data to back this up:
   1. According to the Nautilus Research Group the US domestic retail market for home and commercial fitness equipment is approximately $6.1 billion and $700 million respectively.
   2. According to the National Centerfor Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, among adults age 20-74 years, the estimated prevalence of obesity has doubled from approximately 15 percent to an estimated 31 percent in the last 10 years.
   3. According to the US Census Bureau, 12.4% of the US population was over 65 year of age in 2000.  By 2025 that segment of the population is expected to grow 55% to 19.2% of the total population.
3. I have already secured all relevant local and international patent rights to the intellectual property.
4. Fitness equipment sells! (ex: the BowFlex home gym sells approximately $70 Million US per year of product off of infomercials alone)

Why do you want to bring your product to market?Given that the North American population is getting older and more obese and that fitness equipment sales continue to increase it is clear that the current fitness equipment does not satisfy the needs of the market.  The FitChair can actually benefit society and provide tremendous profit generating potential.

How do you describe your product…? The FitChair is a revolutionary hybrid piece of equipment that crosses the comfort and aesthetic appeal of a reclining living room chair with an exercise bike.  This state of the art device maximizes exercise comfort, minimizes joint stress and eliminates any space requirement hindering the purchase of exercise equipment.   To date there are no competitive products similar.

In “non-exercising” mode the FitChair simply looks and feels like a comfortable reclining chair.  With the simple push of a button the FitChair transforms automatically into “exercise mode” as the pedalling mechanism comes out from under the chair.  The peddling mechanism includes a tension controller and an onboard fitness computer that calculates rpm’s, calories lost, etc.  Once an exercise session is complete the FitChair simply reverts back into a stylish reclining chair.

Due to the comfort maximization of the FitChair those people who have a very hard time starting and maintaining an exercise program can simply and comfortably get themselves into better physical condition while maximizing space already reserved for a standard piece of furniture.  The FitChair also addresses the general fitness equipment market because its unique design satisfies two major consumer demands:

1. An aesthetically appealing piece of fitness equipment that can permanently stay in the living/TV room.
2. A piece of fitness equipment that when not used maintains a functional use (other than clothes hanger) in the home.

For a closer look at the product go to www.fitchair.com

How did you come up with the idea…?I had recently completed a long day of work and had just put my kids to sleep and settled in on the sofa for some much needed relaxation.  I began to contemplate the need to go down to my basement to exercise on my treadmill.  I asked my wife if she would mind if I bring the treadmill up to the TV room.  My wife clearly indicated that it was too big and ugly.  I then realized that the world was missing a fitness solution that would be comfortable, safe, convenient and could aesthetically blend in to the average living room.

After researching the ever growing obesity and demographic aging trends I was sure that the concept of fitness equipment hidden in living room furniture was a much needed invention.  I discussed the idea with many elderly and obese individuals who verified that their “conditions” where not adequately addressed with the current exercise equipment on the market.  For example, they lacked the balance for treadmills and exercise bikes where to uncomfortable to sit on for more than 5 minutes.   I knew I had to create the FitChair.

In closing what message would you like to send to the Dragons?Let’s go make some serious coin!

please note: the above poll is not binding on the CBC, the producers of the Dragons' Den, or anyone else for that matter.

DD: Profile of a Potential Pitcher #3 - Zigtag

Too Technical for the Den?

Ok, I need your help. 

You see we met a tremendous entrepeneur in Edmonton, Reg Cheramy, with a great track record of success and an awesome product.  But it is heavy in tech, and may not be that easy to fully grasp on TV.  So the debate is, would you guys, the readers and audience, dig seeing a guy like Reg pitching to the dragons?

Give his interview a read and let me know with your comments and votes!!

Why do you want to be on the Den? I think it's a fantastic opportunity to showcase Canadian  Entrepreneurs. When I watched the videos of the BBC edition of the show it instantly appealed to me. The opportunity to lay it all on the line in a short pitch and then instantly get straight to the negotiations and finally to decide if the Dragons offer works for you, all in single show is really exciting.

Why would you be a good bet for the Dragons to invest in? I'm a passionate serial entrepreneur who's been building businesses since I was 15 years old. I've got a great blend of technical abilities and business skill and the ability to make intricate technologies super easy to use.

In building businesses, I've learned a lot about what I'm good at and also where I need to bring on people to compliment my shortcomings. I'm a creative problem solver with a proven commitment  to do what ever it takes to succeed. I know the market as well as anyone and have a network of relationships that will help Zigtag develop and go to market in the most effective means.

Zigtag is a massive opportunity. The consumer facing side of the company is just the tip of the iceberg. The network effect of each additional user joining Zigtag is staggering.  Our novel viral 'word of mouth' marketing technique is massive and a sure winner. Our revenue model is well thought out and provides considerable cashflow with even the most cautious of projections.

The Dragons should invest in Zigtag if they want to be a part of building the next generation of internet information management and make a ton of money doing it.

Why do you want to bring your product to market? Finding information on the internet is hard. And keeping it found is equally challenging. The way people search, save and share information today is archaic. Zigtag will change the way millions of people use the internet – for the better.

How do you describe your product? Zigtag is comprised of three core pieces:

SEARCH - We all waste way too much time searching for information on the internet.  Search engines today return millions of results yet users only look through the first 10 or 20 before trying another search. It's not the users fault for entering the wrong search terms, it's the technologies for not adapting to the user. Zigtag provides real-time, personal, filtered search results so users find what they are looking instantly. Think of it as a super fast internet search assistant.

SAVE - Once we've found information we want to save, there aren't any really great tools. We can throw a bookmark in our favorites... but that quickly becomes messy and useless and we end up trying to search for it again on our favorite search engine. But what about the content we find on a website. How do we keep notes, clippings or annotations about the information we find on the Internet? Zigtag gives you a web based notebook accessible from any computer to keep track of anything you want to save from recipes to contact information to notes on your next business proposal or school paper.

SHARE - Finally, how do we share information once we've found it? By sending an email? Email is a competent yet limiting collaboration tool. Zigtag offers a powerful collaboration environment enabling users in multiple locations to work together researching, compiling  and preparing information, documents and reports.

How did you come up with the idea? I've been noodling over this idea for quite a while now. Thinking about how information is related and connected. A company called Del.icio.us (acquired by Yahoo for ~$30MM) pioneered the use of tagging to links related bookmarks.  Zigtag (now you know where the tag part of Zigtag comes from) puts the concept of tagging on steroids but with a level of usability and interface that the mass market will use. I'd been working at a solving the problem of managing all the information I wanted to remember. At about 4am one day last year, I woke up with a massive breakthrough, the 'golden key'  that allows Zigtag magic to work.

In closing what message would you like to send to the Dragons? Zigtag is solving a massive problem that we've all experienced – finding and re-finding the information you want to remember. The techniques we've pioneered in solving this problem are a new paradigm and we will be a lead platform in revolutionizing how people search, save and share information. The technology is  developed, we've got thousands of users on a waiting list and a successful alpha test underway.

DD: Profile of a Potential Pitcher #2

OK boys and girls, here's another applicant who wants to pitch to our Dragons'. Let me know what you think by voting and posting comments. We met Mr. Tyler Westerlund, aka Chainsaw Charlie, at the Toronto kick off auditions.

As you can see in the pix, his outfit caught our eye, but it was his dedication and out of the box thinking that made me want to profile him. Tyler is a rock G-d in the making. His band WHITE COWBELL OKLAHOMA is to Southern Fried Rock what the Blues Brothers were to well...blues.

I've seen the band many times and while their music is (my opinion) is a 8/10 their stage presence and show is a definite 10/10. They use chainsaws on stage, hire actors to play fundamentalists protesting their own show, and travel the world (including opening for Iron Maiden at a 40,000+ person festival in Holland), and despite the fact they are each red blooded Canadians, once on stage, you would think these good 'ole boys were from the Southern States.

Notwithstanding their early success, and global fan base (WCO has played in over 20 countries), they are still unsigned, and as a result do everything themselves, including producing and selling own concert shirts. Tyler wants the Dragons to pony up $75,000 to fund their merchandise (which he claims sells out, but is limited by the band's ability to pre fund manufacturing, more than just t-shirts, but don't take my word for it, check out the massive catalog live on the WCO store) and is willing to share a large percentage of the sales in return. After doing some checking, I can confirm three things:

1. the band sells out (both in tickets and in swag) everywhere they go;
2. the mark up on these shirts leaves a very healthy margin; and
3. Tyler and the boys are consummate performers yes, but also dedicated entrepreneurial artists too.

So read the profile below and vote. To paraphrase the great Christopher Walken .....do we all need more Cowbell? (note: urban legend has it that WCO's 1999 tour was the true inspiration behind the 2000 SNL skit where where Mr. Walken demands more cowbell)

Why do you want to be on the Den…?…short answer: Because we are a nine man southern fried rock army, hell bent on world domination! ….the only thing is, we’re just short a little cash. I see this as a great opportunity for the good folks at White Cowbell Oklahoma and the Dragons of the Den to do a little back scratching, and all make a little money, a little faster. …And by a little I mean a lot. This Rock and Roll locomotive we are riding will face upward climes on its way to the top, like any other hard working act should. But we will stop at nothing until we achieve our goals and we will get there one way or the other. It now comes down to time, and I believe a shot of high octane, vitamin $ might do just that. Myself, and the other fellas in the band are consummate performers, and we have thrilled thousands of people across North America and Europe . I have no doubt that I would be an interesting character and worthy opponent for The Dragon’s Den. ….. I know what you are saying, I hate unsupported statements too, so I invite you learn and see more at www.whitecowbell.com

Why would you be a good bet for the Dragons to invest in? Rock T-Shirts have been selling since the dawn of time (well maybe not the dawn of time, but you get my drift) In the end nobody will escape the fury of the almighty White Cowbell Oklahoma , so we may as well jump in bed together now. We consistently play to huge crowds, and we put on a show that is so satisfying and engaging, that our frenzy-whipped crowd feels they can’t leave the premises without a little piece of the Bell…this is where the merchandise comes in. White Cowbell has always been a war of attrition and we look at our merchandise the same way. If you create a large enough drag net, meaning a large enough selection of goods, almost every fish that passes by will get caught in our shiny net. But to create a net that big you need a lot of rope.

Why do you want to bring your product to market? Our product already is to market…...we just need to make more! We have demands we can’t meet through website sales, over seas sales, and are running out of sizes and colors during our live shows. ….but the big thought doesn’t stop there. I believe that we have all the ideas and public interest to launch our own similarly themed WCO ‘funky’ T-Shirt clothing line, to sell in stores across the nation. We already have a proven system ( from art department to the final printing) producing wanted goods, we just need to up scale and expand. We need to ‘bring more products to market’. Having owned and operated my own printing company since 1999, I have learned a great deal about this very business, and what works and doesn’t work.

How do you describe your product…? I would describe it as the most important piece of Rock attire a person could purchase in the 21st century. As far as being a rock band, we offer a far more extensive selection of merchandise items than most acts. Sure, we have five different styles of men’s shirts, eight different styles of women’s shirts, stickers, posters and hats, like other bands do….right? But we here at White Cowbell Enterprise , we believe in giving our customer a selection unlike no other. There are another half dozen items or so that may not be appropriate to discuss right now, but the menu at our merch buffet is five pages long….As one of the chief salesman for WCO goods, I have met down-right hostile members of our fan bass, when they discovered I had sold out of the items they were after. This is not so much for us as it is for the people. Think of the innocent people!

How did you came up with the idea…? It was really a no-brainer. T’ shirts are to Rock music as shrimp is to gumbo. As a young rock and roll enthusiast, back in the day, I remember seeing the grubby guy selling shirts at the big rock shows counting his ‘wad’ at the end of the night with a grin from ear to ear. Now I know why. It’s the real jewel in the crown as far revenue in this business, short of selling numerous copies of our new CD, which is happening as we speak. As for some of our more signature items, those are closely guarded company secrets.

In closing what message would you like to send to the Dragons?… With out being redundant, Myself and the other fine gents of White Cowbell have dedicated our lives to bringing the people the grand Rock shows of yester year. Delivering what is missing in today’s music and is so badly needed by the masses. The reason we know this is by the over whelming response we get from the legions of fans here and abroad, that have Rocked with us over the past 7 years. If the Dragons have yet to invest in the enormous exciting world of Rock and Roll, this is a sure fire way to wet the feet and see a profit. I invite the Dragons to sit at our table and share in the wines of victory with the unstoppable Rock army that is WHITE COWBELL OKLAHOMA !!!! YeeHaaaa!

Please remember, this poll - while fun - is not binding on the CBC, the Producers of the Dragons' Den or anyone else for that matter!

DD: Profile of a Potential Pitcher

As you've read in previous posts, we are seeing all sorts of great ideas as people from across Canada auditon to be on the show.  Some are interesting because they are just plain wacky. Some are interesting because their idea is just novel. Some are interesting because of the person behind the idea.  To that end, I thought I would highlight a few that I've enjoyed meeting.  Now, being listed here is no indication that they will make it on the show.  But if you like what you see, and think they should (or shouldn't be on the show) post your comments below and I will bring those with me when we go through tape in the coming weeks to decide who is in, and who is not.

First up, a funky entrepreneur from Kitchener Waterloo...Ms. Maia Papaya.

We met Ms. Papaya at the Waterloo auditions last week. Ms. Papaya was looking for $75k to prototype her idea to put a recording chip inside of kids' books, so parents could read the book to their children even if they weren't at home with the child. While it was an interesting idea, we were even more impressed with her passion, her energy and her dedication.   As a single mom in her early 30s this inventor certainly has a lot to offer.

So to follow up, I interviewed her to see just what makes this unique woman tick and to find out why she wants to be on the Dragons' Den.  Here are her answers in her own words.

Why do you want to be on the Den…? I'm a firm believer in ROI (return of investments). The Dragon's have made an investment of their TIME (which in my eyes, and my industry, is some times valued at more then the Canadian dollar!)  I am here to make it possible for these fine Dragon's to maximize their ROI (time & dollar combined)

Why would you be a good bet for the Dragons to invest in? Let's put it this way…if you were dealt 2 aces in a game of holdem'… you'd bet the farm…because It's a good bet…..Consider my investment opportunity "the bullets"… can you say,  "I'M ALL IN" ???  Much like death, taxes and prostitutes, this investment opportunity is a "sure thing"!!!

Why do you want to bring your product to market? Ha!  Lets get one thing straight…. I'm not here to try and re-invent the wheel or stop world hunger… I'm here to give someone the opportunity to invest in a concept that will travel nation wide, in any language with over a gazillion possible end users.  "My Difference"…?   Will be to NOT WASTE THE DRAGON'S  TIME OR THEIR MONEY!!!

How do you describe your product…? It's a story book that reads to the child in the parents voice, allowing the child to connect with family in times of absence. I have also developed  an R RATED version of this concept for those individuals who do not have children… and need to feel a "connection" of sorts ;)  Stay tuned for more information ;) tee hee!

How did you came up with the idea…? Well, I certainly cannot take credit for the whole shootin' match…But I can say this… I have been a single parent for 5 years - and its impossible to be there with him every second of every day… This concept allows him to take a little piece of me where ever he goes!

In closing what message would you like to send to the Dragons?…. I have a concept worth MILLIONS to market to end users in the Gazillions… and I am looking for a few key investors to share this highly profitable opportunity with ….Stay Tuned to THE DRAGON'S DEN on CBC to find out if THE DRAGON'S made my cut ;)  teehee!

For more on Ms. Papaya click here!

So there you have it.  That is the sort of inventors, founders and entrepreneurs we are getting the pleasure to meet with.

Now it is your turn....what do you think of Ms. Papaya's idea? Good, bad, needs work?  Should she make the cut for the show?  Post your comments below and stay tuned to see what happens...