Ava the Elephant - Shark Tank Update

Tiffany Krumins entered the Shark Tank with a revolutionary children's medicine dispenser that disguised the dropper as a friendly elephant character. Inspired by her experience babysitting a child who refused medication, Krumins developed a prototype with voice recordings that congratulated children for taking their medicine.

Despite having only handmade prototypes, she secured a deal with Barbara Corcoran for $50,000 in exchange for 55% equity, making it one of the first successful investments on Shark Tank.

Ava The Elephant became one of Shark Tank's biggest success stories, growing from a prototype to a business generating over $1 million in revenue by 2013 with 100,000 units sold. The product achieved widespread distribution in over 10,000 retail outlets including CVS, Walgreens, and major chain stores.

Barbara Corcoran's mentorship proved invaluable, helping Tiffany secure patents and transition to professional manufacturing. The company expanded with additional products including thermometer stickers and partnered with charitable programs for underprivileged children.

Despite facing personal challenges including a cancer battle, Tiffany successfully scaled the business before stepping back from day-to-day operations in 2018. She licensed the product to Baby Delight, which was later acquired by Better Family in 2021, ensuring the product's continued availability while allowing Tiffany to focus on her family.

The medicine dispenser remains popular with both singing and talking models available, demonstrating how addressing a simple parenting challenge can create lasting commercial success.