In an exciting development for aspiring entrepreneurs, Grenlit Studios has officially acquired the rights to launch Shark Tank in Pakistan later this year. The co-founder of Grenlit Studios announced this initiative on Tuesday, aiming to revamp the country’s brand image through this popular business reality television series.
What is Shark Tank?
Originally launched in 2009 on the ABC network, Shark Tank has provided a platform for budding entrepreneurs to pitch their innovative business ideas to a panel of venture capitalists, famously known as “sharks.” The show has already seen immense success in various countries, including India, where it debuted in Hindi on Sony Entertainment Television in 2021.
Usman Malik, CEO and co-founder of Grenlit Studios, emphasized that the idea to bring Shark Tank to Pakistan stemmed from its overwhelming success in India. “This is exactly what people in Pakistan need right now. Jobs will be created only when businesses launch, and it is micro-SMEs and SMEs that will create jobs,” he shared with Arab News.
Malik highlighted the crucial need for repositioning Pakistan’s brand image, as high capital costs have hindered large-scale business setups. He noted that Shark Tank Pakistan will be primarily in Urdu, with a localized approach that resonates with the audience.
Shark Tank Pakistan Judges
The inaugural season will feature seven distinguished judges, known as “sharks.” This diverse panel includes:
- Faisal Aftab: Technology and venture investment expert.
- Rabeel Warraich: Veteran of the tech industry known for driving innovation.
- Aleena Nadeem: Fintech pioneer passionate about education.
- Romanna Dada: Investor and founder with 20 years of experience.
- Junaid Iqbal: Former MD of Careem in Pakistan and Saudi Arabia.
- Karim Teli: Managing Director of IGLOO ice cream.
- Usman Bashir: Veteran in retail and gas station management.
According to Malik, while the show may appear to focus on business, approximately 80% of it will be entertainment, a formula that has proven successful globally.
Despite some criticism regarding the absence of mainstream industrialists, Warraich highlighted that the chosen sharks are deeply connected to the entrepreneurial landscape, appealing more to the youth of Pakistan.
Shark Tank Pakistan Release Date
Registrations for Shark Tank Pakistan opened recently and will continue for the next two months. Filming is set to take place in Karachi in September, with the show scheduled to air in November on Green Entertainment.
Shark Tank Pakistan Registration Online
Entrepreneurs interested in participating must complete the application process online at applysharktankpakistan.com. The last date to apply for Shark Tank Pakistan is 31st July 2024.
The team anticipates a strong response from innovative minds eager to showcase their business proposals. Malik expressed hopes of producing at least three seasons, contingent on the success of the inaugural season.
“Response to registrations has been immense. We’re open to carrying the show for as long as we can,” Malik affirmed.
