What is CertifiKID and how did it fare on Shark Tank Season 10? CertifiKID is a website that offers discounts on family-friendly activities. Jamie and Brian Ratner pitched the business on Shark Tank Season 10, seeking $600,000 for 8% equity. They ultimately secured a deal with Kevin O’Leary for $600,000 in exchange for 19% equity.
Summary
- CertifiKID is a daily deals website focused on family activities.
- Founders Jamie and Brian Ratner appeared on Shark Tank Season 10.
- They secured a deal with Kevin O’Leary for $600,000 for 19% equity.
- Despite challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic, the company has continued to grow.
- CertifiKID acquired Hulafrog in 2023 and reached $5 million in annual revenue in 2024.
CertifiKID Shark Tank Update | Shark Tank Season 10
What is CertifiKID?
CertifiKID is a website that helps families save money on fun activities.
Think of it like Groupon, but specifically for things like kids’ classes, summer camps, family outings to amusement parks or zoos, and even birthday party packages.
They offer deals and discounts in many major cities across the US.
The Founders’ Story
Jamie Ratner started CertifiKID in 2010. She was a mom who loved finding deals online, but noticed there weren’t many websites offering discounts on things to do with her kids.
So, she started her own! She began in the Washington, D.C. area and grew the business with her husband, Brian. They now offer deals in cities all over the country.
How CertifiKID Works
CertifiKID partners with businesses like trampoline parks, children’s museums, and activity centers to offer discounts to its subscribers.
Families can browse the website or their daily email to find deals in their area. When they purchase a deal through CertifiKID, the company earns a commission.
This allows CertifiKID to offer these discounts while also making money. It’s a win-win for both families and the businesses they partner with!
Shark Tank Season 10 Appearance
1. The Pitch
| Entrepreneurs | Jamie Ratner and Brian Ratner |
|---|---|
| Business | CertifiKID |
| Ask | $600,000 for 8% equity |
| Deal | $600,000 for 19% equity |
| Sharks | Kevin O’Leary |
| Season – Episode | Season 10 – Episode 18 |
| Original Air Date | March 10, 2019 |
| Website | CertifiKID |
| Key Points of Pitch |
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| Why Sharks Accepted |
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2. The Sharks’ Response
The Sharks were impressed with CertifiKID’s strong financial performance and large subscriber base.
They saw the potential for the company to expand nationally and become a leader in the family deals market.
Some Sharks expressed concerns about the competitive landscape of the daily deals industry, but Jamie and Brian’s passion and expertise reassured them.
3. The Deal
Several Sharks made offers, including Daymond John and Barbara Corcoran. However, Kevin O’Leary’s offer ultimately won.
After some intense negotiation, they agreed on a deal where Kevin invested $600,000 in exchange for 19% equity in CertifiKID.
CertifiKID After Shark Tank
1. Growth and Expansion
After their successful Shark Tank appearance, CertifiKID experienced a period of significant growth.
With Kevin O’Leary’s investment and guidance, they were able to expand their reach to new cities across the United States.
They focused on building their sales team and improving their marketing efforts, which led to an increase in subscribers and revenue.
This allowed them to offer even more deals to families and partner with a wider range of businesses.
2. Navigating the COVID-19 Pandemic
Like many businesses, CertifiKID faced challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic. With many family-friendly venues closed, they had to adapt quickly.
Jamie and Brian pivoted their focus to online activities and resources that families could enjoy from home.
They also sought financial assistance through government programs to help them weather the storm.
This resourceful approach helped them maintain their business and emerge stronger on the other side of the pandemic.
3. Acquisition of Hulafrog
In 2023, CertifiKID acquired Hulafrog, another website that provides resources and information about family-friendly activities.
This strategic move allowed them to expand their audience and offer even more value to families.
By combining their strengths, CertifiKID and Hulafrog became a leading source for families looking for things to do and ways to save money.
This acquisition demonstrates their commitment to growth and innovation in the family entertainment market.
CertifiKID Today
1. Revenue and Success
CertifiKID has come a long way since its Shark Tank appearance. As of 2024, the company boasts an annual revenue of $5 million.
This success is a testament to Jamie and Brian’s hard work and dedication, as well as the strategic partnership with Kevin O’Leary. They have managed to build a thriving business that connects families with fun and affordable activities.
Beyond the financial success, CertifiKID has become a trusted resource for parents across the country. Their website and email newsletters are go-to sources for finding deals and planning family outings.
They have created a loyal community of parents who appreciate the value and convenience that CertifiKID provides.
2. Future Outlook
With a strong foundation and a growing audience, CertifiKID’s future looks bright. They continue to expand their reach, partnering with new businesses and offering deals in more cities.
They are also exploring new ways to innovate and improve their services, such as personalized recommendations and enhanced search features.
The acquisition of Hulafrog demonstrates CertifiKID’s ambition to become the ultimate resource for families.
By combining their expertise and resources, they are well-positioned to continue their growth trajectory and remain a leader in the family entertainment market for years to come.
FAQs
What kinds of deals can I find on CertifiKID?
CertifiKID offers a wide variety of deals, including discounts on indoor play spaces, kids’ classes and camps, amusement parks, zoos, family-friendly shows, and much more. They even have deals on birthday party packages and family vacations!
Where does CertifiKID offer deals?
CertifiKID started in the Washington, D.C. area, but they now offer deals in many major cities across the United States. You can check their website to see if they have deals in your area.
How do I purchase a deal on CertifiKID?
Simply browse their website or sign up for their daily email to find deals near you. Once you find a deal you like, you can purchase it directly through the CertifiKID website. You’ll receive a voucher that you can then redeem with the business offering the deal.
Is CertifiKID only for families with young children?
While CertifiKID focuses on family-friendly activities, they offer deals for a variety of ages. You can find deals for toddlers, elementary-aged kids, teens, and even adults.
The Bottom Line
CertifiKID is a valuable resource for families looking to save money on fun experiences. Their success story is a testament to the power of entrepreneurship and the importance of adapting to challenges. By providing a platform that connects families with affordable activities, CertifiKID has made a positive impact on communities across the country. Whether you’re looking for a fun day trip or planning a family vacation, CertifiKID can help you create lasting memories without breaking the bank.
