BatBnB began in 2016, founded by Harrison Broadhurst and Chris Rannefors, with a simple goal: to create attractive, eco-friendly homes for bats. These houses help control pests like mosquitoes while supporting bat conservation.
Their unique idea quickly gained attention. It stood out for combining practical pest control with a mission to protect an often misunderstood animal.
In May 2019, Harrison and Chris presented their idea on Season 10, Episode 23 of Shark Tank. They asked for $100,000 in exchange for 16% equity in their business.
During the pitch, they emphasized the role bats play in natural pest control and the need for well-designed bat houses. Most Sharks were unsure about the market’s size and potential.
However, Kevin O’Leary saw the value and offered $100,000 for 33.3% equity. Although the deal didn’t finalize, the exposure from Shark Tank gave the business a significant boost.
Since then, BatBnB has grown steadily. They now sell their products in 50 states and 13 countries. The company has also introduced new items, including BirdBnB.
As of 2024, BatBnB generates under $1 million annually in sales.
Their commitment to sustainability and conservation has earned them recognition from outlets like Forbes 30 Under 30, NPR, and USA Today. By 2024, BatBnB had provided safe homes for over 600,000 bats. This success has made them a trusted name in eco-friendly pest control.
BatBnB’s journey offers valuable lessons for entrepreneurs. Whether it’s about turning a unique idea into reality, overcoming challenges, or building a business with purpose, their story is full of inspiration.
Here are five actionable lessons that every entrepreneur can apply to their own business journey.
5 Simple Business Lessons You Can Learn from BatBnB
1. Identifying and Solving a Real-World Problem
BatBnB’s founders tackled two major issues: rising mosquito populations and the loss of natural habitats for bats. They created stylish, eco-friendly bat houses that mimic the bats’ natural homes.
This approach solved these problems simultaneously. It not only offered an alternative to harmful pesticides but also helped educate people about bats’ importance in the ecosystem.
“Most people don’t know that a common bat will eat up to 1,000 mosquito-sized insects an hour, making them one of nature’s greatest forms of natural pest control.”
Solution:
To stand out, they designed their bat houses with features like grooved chambers, landing pads, and water-resistant cedar wood. These details made the houses functional, durable, and visually appealing. Their solution addressed the need for pest control while supporting bat conservation.
Think about a problem your product or service can address. How can you combine practical benefits with a broader purpose to create something unique?
Takeaway:
Customers value products that solve specific problems effectively. By addressing a clear need and designing a thoughtful solution, you can create a product that appeals to both hearts and minds.
2. Leverage Crowdfunding to Validate and Fund Ideas
BatBnB turned to crowdfunding to raise money and test the market for their idea. Their IndieGoGo campaign brought in $120,000. This result proved that people were willing to invest in eco-friendly solutions.
“We launched via crowdfunding about 11 months ago, and so far, revenues to date have been $135,000,” the founders shared during their Shark Tank pitch.
Solution:
This campaign did more than fund their initial production. It proved that there was real demand for their product. Crowdfunding also created an early community of supportive customers who believed in their mission.
If you’re starting a business, consider crowdfunding as a way to validate your idea while raising funds. It’s a powerful way to test the waters without significant risk.
Takeaway:
Crowdfunding isn’t just about raising money. It’s also a way to see if your idea resonates with potential customers. Use it to confirm your idea, gather feedback, and create a loyal base of early adopters.
3. Utilize Media and Publicity to Dispel Misconceptions
Bats often suffer from a bad reputation. This was a significant challenge for BatBnB. To change this, the founders used media platforms to educate people about the benefits bats provide, such as natural pest control.
“BatBnB, in its simplest form, is a perfectly designed home for an increasingly misunderstood and threatened animal that also turns out to be incredibly beneficial to us,” the founders explained in an interview.
Solution:
They appeared on popular media outlets like NPR and “How I Built This.” Using these opportunities, they informed the public and reshaped bats’ image. By framing bats as helpful creatures instead of pests, they gained trust and built a stronger brand.
How can you use media to tell your story? Focus on educating your audience about the unique value your product or service provides.
Takeaway:
Media is a powerful way to shift public perception. If you face challenges in how people view your product or industry, use storytelling and education to reshape their understanding.
4. Invest in Sustainability and Social Good
BatBnB made sustainability the foundation of their business. From using eco-friendly materials to partnering with conservation experts, they aligned their practices with modern customer values.
“We use responsible production practices like carbon offsetting to ensure that our work helps both bats and the environment,” the founders shared.
Solution:
Their products are made from Western Red Cedar, a durable and eco-friendly wood. The company also partnered with Merlin Tuttle Bat Conservation, strengthening their credibility in the conservation space. By prioritizing sustainability, they appealed to environmentally conscious buyers and built a mission-driven brand.
Look for ways to make sustainability part of your business. Whether it’s through eco-friendly materials or ethical production, align your practices with the values of your target audience.
Takeaway:
Sustainability isn’t just good for the planet, it’s good for business. Customers are more likely to support companies that share their values, making eco-conscious practices a win-win.
5. Be Prepared for Setbacks, but Use Them to Build Resilience
The Shark Tank deal with Kevin O’Leary didn’t go through. Despite this, BatBnB didn’t let the setback hold them back. They used the exposure to grow their brand and expand their reach.
“The deal never completely closed with Kevin O’Leary; however, the business stayed afloat,” the founders revealed.
Solution:
Instead of focusing on the missed opportunity, they leveraged the exposure from Shark Tank to secure media coverage. This helped them grow their sales and attract more customers. Their resilience and focus on long-term goals kept their business thriving.
When things don’t go as planned, look for the opportunities hidden in the setback. How can you turn challenges into stepping stones for growth?
Takeaway:
Setbacks are inevitable, but they don’t have to define your journey. Use every challenge as an opportunity to adapt, grow, and build something even stronger.