OS ANGELES, CA — In one of the most memorable and emotionally charged pitches in Shark Tank history, entrepreneur Hans Dose walked into the tank seeking $200,000 for a 10% stake in his company, Tenikle. What followed was a masterclass in perseverance, showing how a single design and a final $39 in a bank account could lead to a life-changing partnership.
The Innovation: Meet the Tenikle
Dose introduced the Sharks to a versatile, multi-purpose mount inspired by the suction cups of an octopus. The Tenikle is a flexible tripod, selfie stick, and mount all rolled into one, featuring:
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Flexible Legs: Can be wrapped around poles, bike handlebars, or branches.
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Powerful Suction Cups: Allows the device to stick to windows, mirrors, and smooth surfaces.
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Universal Compatibility: Works with smartphones, GoPros, and cameras.
The “Zero Hour” Backstory
The most gripping part of the pitch wasn’t the product, but Dose’s personal sacrifice. He revealed to the Sharks that he had poured every cent he owned into Tenikle.
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The Debt: Dose had accumulated over $270,000 in debt trying to keep the business afloat.
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The $39 Moment: At his lowest point, just before filming, he had only $39 left in his bank account.
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The Hustle: He had been living out of his car and working tirelessly to perfect the prototype, driven by the belief that his invention solved a real problem for creators.
The Shark Battle: Feeding Frenzy
While some Sharks expressed concern over the high debt and the “gadget” nature of the product, the sales numbers told a different story. Tenikle had already done $1.1 million in lifetime sales, proving market demand.
| Shark | Response |
| Mark Cuban | Loved the utility but was wary of the crowded accessory market. |
| Kevin O’Leary | Worried about the debt load and the “hobbyist” nature of the business. |
| Lori Greiner | Recognized the “hero” potential. She saw it as a perfect QVC/infomercial product. |
| Daymond John | Appreciated the grind but decided to pass. |
| Robert Herjavec | Moved by Hans’s story and the product’s versatility. |
The Deal
After a tense negotiation, Robert Herjavec stepped up. He was moved by Dose’s passion and the product’s clever design.
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The Ask: $200,000 for 10%.
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The Deal: $200,000 for 30% equity.
Despite the high equity give-up, Dose accepted the deal, knowing that Robert’s mentorship and capital were the only things standing between Tenikle and bankruptcy.
Where Are They Now? (2026 Update)
Since appearing on the show, the “Shark Tank Effect” transformed Tenikle from a struggling startup into a global brand.
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Massive Growth: Tenikle expanded its retail presence into major electronics stores and tripled its online sales.
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Product Evolution: They launched the Tenikle 360, featuring an improved rotatable head and stronger suction cups.
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Financial Stability: Hans Dose cleared his debts and has moved Tenikle into a sustainable, multi-million dollar operation.
“I was down to my last $39,” Dose said in a follow-up. “Shark Tank didn’t just save my business; it saved my dream.”
The Verdict
Hans Dose’s appearance proves that “The American Dream” is alive in the Tank. By combining a unique, functional product with a “burn the boats” work ethic, he turned a $39 gamble into a cornerstone of the mobile accessory industry.
