It started with a piece of string, and turned into a million dollar idea. Here’s how ZipString became one of the most viral toys to appear on Shark Tank.
ZipString, a simple yet captivating toy that creates loops with a string, was pitched on Season 14 of Shark Tank in 2022. Founders Cole Nevills and Sean Neville secured a deal with Robert Herjavec and Kevin O’Leary, which significantly boosted their brand visibility.
What Happened to ZipString?
- Shark Tank Pitch: Secured $100K for 10% from Barbara Corcoran.
- Net Worth: $1 million (2024).
- Sales: Annual revenue of $665K.
- Consumer Feedback: Viral hit, praised for fun; critics questioned utility.
- Production: Addressed initial durability and delivery issues.
- Current Status: Sold online, popular with kids and toy enthusiasts.
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Since their appearance, ZipString has grown in popularity, leading to a valuation of around $1 million as of 2024. The company continues to operate independently, with no major acquisitions reported.
While they didn’t pursue crowdfunding, ZipString has expanded its product line and distribution, solidifying its status as a fun, innovative toy that resonates with both kids and adults.
ZipString Net Worth
| Estimated Net worth | $1 million (2024) |
| Annual Sales Revenue | $665,000 (2024) |
| Lifetime Sales | Not available |
| Shark Tank Investor | Kevin O’Leary and Robert Herjavec |
| Founder | Stephen Fazio and Austin Hillam |
| Employees | Not available |
ZipString Pitch on Shark Tank
| Company name | ZipString |
| Product | Toy makes the strings fly in the air |
| Episode | Season 14 Episode 09 |
| Founders | Stephen Fazio and Austin Hillam |
| Asked for | $100K for a 10% equity |
| Final deal | $100K for a 20% equity |
| Sharks | Kevin O’Leary and Robert Herjavec |
| Location | Johns Creek, Georgia, USA |
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ZipString Founders
ZipString was founded by Stephen Fazio and Austin Hillam in 2021. On August 12, 2021, ZipString gained widespread attention when its creators, Stephen Fazio (22) and Austin Hillam (22), introduced their invention to the public. While perfecting the design, Stephen, Austin, and Austin’s father, Mark, established a workspace where they invented numerous product versions. ZipString’s founders, Stephen Fazio and Austin Hillam, have a combined net worth of approximately 1 million USD as of 2024.
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Key accomplishments
| Year | Accomplishment |
| 2021 | In October 2021, they ran a successful Kickstarter campaign and secured $90,000 in funding for their company. |
| 2022 | The company appeared on Shark Tank Season 14 and got the deal from Kevin O’Leary and Robert Herjavec. |
Conclusion
From their beginnings on Shark Tank to their current status as a thriving business, they have proven that with the right idea and execution, anything is possible. We can’t wait to see the future for ZipString and its continued success.