Pat Crowley aimed to design a product that was beneficial for the environment and health. He began preparing energy bars using crickets for protein. This concept was influenced by the ancient Aztec civilization. The Aztecs incorporated crickets into their cuisine. Pat aimed to reintroduce this innovatively. He developed Chapul bars that are made using cricket flour. These bars offer a renewable source of protein.
The item was one of a kind. At that moment, nobody else was producing energy bars containing insects. Pat arrived at Shark Tank seeking assistance. He sought $50,000 for 5% equity in his business. Will the entrepreneur get a deal on Shark Tank? Check out the Chapul update to find out!
Chapul Cricket Bars Net Worth Shark Tank Update 2025
Pat Crowley went on Shark Tank asking for $50,000 for 5 % of his company. This meant he thought his business was worth $1,000,000. He made a deal with Mark Cuban for $50,000 for 15 %, lowering the valuation to $333,333. The episode was aired on March 21, 2014. The company later pivoted from snack bars to sustainable insect protein and continues on a smaller scale. Using the default 10 % yearly growth method, the current net worth of Chapul is estimated to be around $1–1.5 million in 2025.
After appearing on Shark Tank, Pat’s company grew quickly. The Chapul bars were already in stores and gaining attention. Pat shifted his focus. He moved from just making energy bars to creating cricket flour. With help from Mark Cuban Pat raised about $3 million in seed money. He also started a new research center in Oregon called the Insect Innovation & Research Center.
This center worked on developing more insect-based food products. Chapul Farms continued to grow. Their cricket flour can now be bought online through their website. Chapul is still in business and expanding its reach. They are a leader in the insect-based protein market.
Yes Chapul got a deal on Shark Tank. Pat asked for $50,000 in exchange for 5% of his business. However, Mark Cuban was interested but wanted more than 5% equity. Pat then offered 15% equity in exchange for the $50,000. Mark agreed to the deal. Robert Herjavec also offered $50,000 for 20% equity but Pat stuck with Mark. The deal went through and this partnership helped Chapul grow into a bigger business.
| Shark(s) Name | Offer & Demand | Counter Offer | Accepted? |
| Barbara Corcoran | Out | N/A | N/A |
| Robert Herjavec | $50,000 for 20% equity | N/A | N/A |
| Kevin O’Leary | Out | N/A | N/A |
| Daymond John | Out | N/A | N/A |
| Mark Cuban | $50,000 for 15% equity | N/A | Yes |
Chapul Cricket Bars Shark Tank pitch
Pat Crowley, the creator of Chapul held a deep passion for environmental issues. He aimed to create a product that was healthy and environmentally friendly. The concept for Chapul bars originated when he discovered the Aztecs. The Aztecs consumed insects as a food source. Pat believed this was a clever idea. Insects contain a lot of protein and need less land and water for farming compared to animals.
This rendered them a sustainable option for the environment. Pat understood that he needed to conduct additional research to make his concept successful. He dedicated considerable time to determining how to develop a product that people would be eager to eat. The difficulty lay in persuading individuals to sample cricket protein. Numerous individuals were not accustomed to the concept of consuming insects.
Pat needed to ensure that the bars were flavorful and healthy. He additionally collaborated with the FDA to confirm that the product was safe for consumption. Pat’s greatest obstacle was altering perceptions regarding food. However, through dedication and innovation, he turned his dream into a reality.
Pat Crowley entered the Shark Tank with a simple but strong pitch. He introduced Chapul bars, a new product made from cricket protein. He told the Sharks about the health benefits of eating insects. He shared how Chapul was already in stores and gaining sales. He explained that his company made $50,000 in sales in just under one year. The company had seen a 33% increase in sales month over month leading up to the show.
Pat also talked about the costs of production. It cost about $1 to make each bar and they sold for $3 each. Pat was asking for $50,000 in exchange for 5% equity in his company. Pat’s pitch was strong but the Sharks had questions. They wanted to know more about the product. They were curious about how the product was made the market and the business model. Pat was confident and answered their questions.
He shared that his product was the first insect-based food on the market. His passion for sustainability and health helped him win over Mark Cuban. Mark saw the potential in the company and wanted to invest.
The Sharks posed numerous inquiries to Pat regarding Chapul bars. Initially, they were interested in learning about the market. What number of individuals might find cricket protein appealing to consume? Pat clarified that his ideal customers were individuals who valued health and environmental issues. They sought sustainable food choices. He also mentioned the increasing interest in alternative proteins.
The Sharks showed interest in the nutritional advantages of the bars. Pat mentioned that every bar contained roughly 10 grams of protein making it an excellent snack for those who are active.
Another inquiry revolved around the flavor. Kevin O’Leary was curious about whether the bars had good taste. Pat guaranteed him that the bars were tasty. Barbara Corcoran sampled a Chapul bar and concurred that it was delicious. She mentioned that it was a one-of-a-kind product but the investment was too expensive for her.
Daymond John also had doubts. He mentioned that he dedicated much of his life to steering clear of bugs and had no desire to engage in the business.
The main question concerned the company’s future. Pat discussed his ideas for Chapul. He aimed to expand the business by introducing additional insect-derived products. He aimed to raise awareness about the ecological advantages of consuming insects. The Sharks found his proposals impressive yet they also had reservations.
They were concerned that persuading people to consume insect protein would be challenging. However Pat was resolute in his goal to ensure Chapul thrived.
The Sharks had mixed feelings about Chapul. Kevin O’Leary was out right away. He said it was bad karma to kill crickets according to Chinese superstition. Barbara Corcoran also passed on the deal. She said the Chapul bar tasted great but the cost of investing was too high for her. Daymond John was the next to drop out. He said he spent his life trying to get away from bugs and this business wasn’t for him.
Mark Cuban was interested in the product but wanted more equity. He didn’t want to invest for just 5%. Pat offered him 15% equity and Mark agreed. Robert Herjavec also made an offer of $50,000 for 20% equity but Pat decided to go with Mark. Pat and Mark finalized the deal for $50,000 and 15% equity. Mark’s experience and investment helped Chapul grow into a bigger business.
What Went Wrong With Chapul On Shark Tank?
The main reason why some Sharks didn’t invest in Chapul was the unfamiliarity with the product. Eating insects was a new concept for many people. Kevin O’Leary was out because of the superstition about crickets. Barbara Corcoran didn’t think the product was a good fit for her. Daymond John didn’t want to be associated with bugs.
These were the main reasons the Sharks didn’t invest. But Mark Cuban saw the potential. He believed in the future of Chapul and its unique product.
Product Availability
Chapul bars are still available for purchase today. They can be bought online through the Chapul website. The company also sells cricket flour, which can be used in baking and cooking. Chapul has expanded its product line to offer more insect-based food options. The Chapul website has detailed information about the products and how to buy them. The Chapul bars are made with high-quality ingredients and are a great source of protein.
They are available in a variety of flavors. The company’s focus is on sustainability and health. They aim to provide a nutritious snack that is good for the environment. Chapul’s products are sold online and in select retail stores. The prices vary depending on the product and where it is purchased.
Conclusion
Chapul’s journey on Shark Tank was a turning point for the company. Pat Crowley’s passion for sustainability and health helped him secure a deal with Mark Cuban. With Mark’s help, Pat grew Chapul into a successful business. Today Chapul is still in business and continues to offer innovative insect-based products.
Hey there, I’m Fatima Muhammad, an International Relations student, with a focus on the strategic dynamics of global relations, One of my favorite shows is Shark Tank. I love it because it showcases the creativity, determination, and strategic thinking of entrepreneurs, which I find inspiring. The show also teaches valuable lessons about innovation, business dynamics, and the importance of perseverance in the face of challenges. Read more About me.
