Nubrella - Shark Tank Update

Alan Kaufman pitched Nubrella, a hands-free wearable umbrella with a backpack-style design, seeking $200,000 for 25% equity on Season 1. The innovative umbrella hood could be worn hands-free and featured a collapsible design that allowed users to adjust for changing weather patterns.

Kaufman had already invested over $900,000 of his own money and had sold 3,000 units through word of mouth at $29.95 retail price (down from $49.95) with $14 production costs. He held a U.S. patent with patents pending worldwide.

After Barbara Corcoran and Robert Herjavec declined due to niche market concerns, Kevin Harrington offered $200,000 for 65% equity. When Kaufman countered with 35%, Daymond John joined Harrington, and they eventually secured a deal for $200,000 for 25% equity.

The Shark Tank deal ultimately fell through when Harrington realized the price point made Nubrella unsuitable for his infomercial business, and Daymond John's distribution efforts also failed. Kaufman continued operating independently, later rebranding to Canope in 2020.

Despite legal challenges including a $20,000 settlement lawsuit against Sony Pictures, the business achieved $1 million in annual revenue by 2021.

However, Kaufman passed away in November 2022, and the business was permanently shuttered following his death, marking the end of the innovative hands-free umbrella concept.