Lori Greiner
Description
Lori Greiner is a prominent venture capitalist and television personality, best known for her role as an investor on ABC's "Shark Tank." Often dubbed "The Queen of QVC," her investment focus is primarily on consumer products, retail, and innovative inventions, particularly those with strong mass-market appeal. She seeks out simple, practical, and often patented products that solve everyday problems and can be easily demonstrated and sold through various retail channels, including her extensive network at QVC and major department stores.
Greiner's investment philosophy emphasizes not just capital infusion but also her significant expertise in product development, manufacturing, marketing, and distribution. She looks for passionate entrepreneurs who possess a deep understanding of their product and market, often preferring companies that have already achieved some initial sales or possess a compelling prototype. Her value proposition extends beyond the check, offering entrepreneurs access to her vast retail connections and her proven ability to scale products quickly to a national audience.
Through her tenure on "Shark Tank," Lori Greiner has invested in over 100 companies, demonstrating a consistent appetite for promising consumer goods. Among her most notable successes is Scrub Daddy, a unique cleaning sponge, which received an initial investment of $200,000 for 20% equity. This investment proved exceptionally lucrative, with Scrub Daddy generating over $200 million in retail sales by 2019. Another significant deal includes Squatty Potty, where she invested $350,000 for a 10% stake.
Her typical first check sizes on the show generally range from approximately $50,000 to $500,000, tailored to the specific needs and equity requirements of the early-stage consumer product businesses she backs. Her approach is characterized by a hands-on mentorship style, leveraging her experience as a successful inventor and entrepreneur herself. Greiner's investment strategy is highly specialized, making her an ideal partner for founders in the consumer product space seeking not just capital but also strategic guidance and unparalleled access to retail distribution channels.
Investor Profile
Lori Greiner has backed more than 20 startups, with 2 new investments in the last 12 months alone. The firm has led 11 rounds, about 55% of its total and boasts 0 exits across its portfolio.
Investment Focus Highlights
- Concentrates on Angel, Seed, Debt Financing rounds (top funding stages).
- Majority of deals are located in United States.
- Strong thematic focus on Food and Beverage, Retail, Consumer Goods.
- Led 2 rounds in the past year.
- Typical check size: $50K – $500K.
Stage Focus
- Angel (50%)
- Seed (20%)
- Debt Financing (15%)
- Pre Seed (10%)
- Series Unknown (5%)
Country Focus
- United States (100%)
Industry Focus
- Food And Beverage
- Retail
- Consumer Goods
- Consumer Electronics
- Consumer
- E-commerce
- Pet
- Electronics
- Information Technology
- Food Delivery
Frequently Asked Questions
Learn who this investor regularly partners with—both firms and angels—and explore their latest activity.