Kevin O'Leary on 'Shark Tank' Season 17: Thriving Amidst Venture Capital Drought

July 4, 2025
Kevin O'Leary on 'Shark Tank' Season 17: Thriving Amidst Venture Capital Drought
  • 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.

Summary based on 2 sources


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