Kevin O'Leary on 'Shark Tank' Season 17: Thriving Amidst Venture Capital Drought
July 4, 2025
Kevin O'Leary is currently filming Season 17 of 'Shark Tank,' marking the first season without Mark Cuban, who departed after Season 16.
Despite Cuban's absence, O'Leary reports that the energy on set remains high, with a diverse array of innovative businesses featured this season, including those in healthy food, technology, and artificial intelligence.
The show has attracted a wide range of businesses this season, showcasing innovative products across various sectors.
O'Leary emphasizes that 'Shark Tank' is drawing larger deals and companies, indicating a growing interest in the platform among entrepreneurs.
Even established companies with strong sales are seeking funding through 'Shark Tank' due to difficulties in raising capital through traditional channels.
O'Leary describes the current venture capital market as having 'dried up,' drawing parallels to the financial crisis of 2008-2009.
He encourages prospective entrepreneurs to start their ventures despite economic uncertainties, noting that many successful companies are founded during periods of economic stress.
While acknowledging that startup failure rates remain high, with around 90% failing, O'Leary believes the entrepreneurial journey can lead to valuable outcomes such as buyouts or public offerings.
O'Leary recently finished taping Season 17 of 'Shark Tank', which is notable for being the first season without Mark Cuban.
Despite challenging market conditions, O'Leary notes that even large companies with established revenues are seeking funding and exposure on 'Shark Tank.'
Investor Kevin O'Leary claims that the venture capital market has 'dried up', drawing parallels to the financial crisis of 2008-2009.
He acknowledges the inherent risks of entrepreneurship, emphasizing that the journey can often lead to rewarding outcomes.
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