Imagine a toy that makes learning fun for kids by telling interactive stories. That’s exactly what Trobo was—a lovable robot designed to teach young children STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) concepts. Jeremy Scheinberg and Chris Harden, the founders of Trobo, wanted to make science and engineering exciting for kids aged 2-7.
Trobo wasn’t just a toy. It paired with an app to tell stories that explained topics like coding and engineering in a way kids could easily understand. Parents and educators loved the idea, and Trobo seemed set to revolutionize how kids learn.
Trobo’s Shark Tank Pitch
When Jeremy and Chris stepped into Shark Tank during Season 7, they were hoping to land $100,000 for 10% of their company, valuing Trobo at $1 million. The Sharks loved the idea, especially its focus on teaching kids STEM concepts, but they had some doubts about the competition and how the business could grow.
Robert Herjavec saw the potential and stepped up with an offer—$166,000 for 33% equity. Jeremy and Chris agreed, and their pitch sparked excitement. The episode put Trobo on the map, catching the attention of parents and educators everywhere.
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Shark Tank Pitch Overview
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Founders | Jeremy Scheinberg and Chris Harden |
| Shark Tank Appearance | Season 7 |
| Investment Sought | $100,000 for 10% equity |
| Deal Secured on Show | $166,000 for 33% equity with Robert Herjavec |
| Valuation | $1 million |
| Closure | 2017 |
How Trobo Is Doing After Shark Tank
Trobo’s Shark Tank appearance generated excitement and brought attention to the brand. However, challenges quickly surfaced. A potential partnership with DreamWorks didn’t work out, and production costs became too high to sustain.
The deal with Robert Herjavec never materialized, leaving the founders to navigate the tough startup world alone. By 2017, the company had to shut down, unable to secure the funding or partnerships it needed to grow.
The Legacy of Trobo
Trobo’s journey is a classic startup story—full of ambition, innovation, and tough challenges. While it didn’t last, it left an important mark on the world of educational toys. Trobo proved that there’s a need for creative, tech-driven learning tools for kids.
The founders may have closed the doors on Trobo, but their mission to make learning fun continues to inspire other entrepreneurs. It’s a reminder that even short-lived ventures can spark meaningful change.
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