Shark Tank Season 14 Episode 9 (often referred to as S14E9), originally aired on December 9, 2022, features a group of entrepreneurs presenting innovative consumer products to the Sharks. The episode includes a customizable holiday home décor delivery service, a handheld device that creates mesmerizing floating string tricks, a smart electronic chess board designed to help players learn and improve their game, and a reusable garage door banner system created for birthdays and special celebrations. Viewers also receive a business update on Ready, Set, Food!, a company focused on helping prevent food allergies in young children.
If you’re looking for a full recap of Shark Tank Season 14 Episode 9, including the deals made, entrepreneurs involved, and product breakdowns, you’ll find everything below from this episode of Shark Tank.
Looking for more from this season? Browse the complete Shark Tank Season 14 episode guide for a full breakdown of every pitch and investment. For a ranked look at the biggest deals and most successful companies, explore the Best of Shark Tank Season 14 – Top Deals, Biggest Investments & Most Successful Companies.
About Shark Tank Season 14
Executive producer Mark Burnett and Sony Pictures Television return with another exciting season of Shark Tank, the hit business reality show where entrepreneurs pitch their ideas to a panel of wealthy investors known as the “Sharks.” Contestants must convince the Sharks that their businesses are worth investing in, often leading to intense negotiations and high-stakes deals.
The show is based on the international format Dragons’ Den, which originally launched in Japan and later became a global franchise. Over the years, Shark Tank has helped launch hundreds of companies while giving viewers a behind-the-scenes look at how real investment decisions are made.
Browse all episodes from Shark Tank Season 14 below.
Each recap includes the entrepreneurs, deals made, and 2026 business updates.
Shark Tank Season 14 Episodes
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Guest Sharks in Shark Tank Season 14
Season 14 of Shark Tank featured several notable guest investors who joined the main Sharks throughout the season.
Guest Sharks brought expertise from industries including fashion, technology, wellness, and e-commerce.
Notable guest Sharks this season included:
- Emma Grede, CEO and co-founder of Good American and founding partner of Skims
- Gwyneth Paltrow (actress and founder of Goop)
- Peter Jones (dragon on Dragons’ Den)
- Daniel Lubetzky, (founder and executive chairman of KIND Snacks )
- Kendra Scott – founder and CEO of Kendra Scott LLC
- Tony Xu – CEO and co-founder of DoorDash
The main Sharks appearing during Shark Tank Season 14 Episode 9 included:
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I had 22 jobs before I started my own business at the age of 23, and I didn’t want one more boss telling me what to do. So I was motivated simply because I didn’t want a boss.
Barbara Corcoran
We listed below every entrepreneur and business who has appeared on Shark Tank Season 14 Episode 9. Many scammers claim they’ve received big investments from the Sharks or they have been on the show. They were not actually on Shark Tank if you don’t see a business on this list. Some of the top places you can use to check are on Wikipedia and also ABC’s episode guide.
What Happened in Shark Tank Season 14 Episode 9?
Shark Tank Season 14 Episode 9 featured four entrepreneurs pitching innovative and entertaining products to the Sharks.
The businesses ranged from a customizable holiday décor subscription service and a floating string toy device to an AI-powered chess training board and a reusable garage door banner system designed for celebrations.
The episode also included a business update featuring Ready, Set, Food!, a company focused on helping prevent food allergies in infants and young children.
All four companies appearing in this episode successfully secured deals with the Sharks after negotiations over valuation, equity stakes, and long-term growth potential.
Businesses Featured on Shark Tank S14E9
Here is the complete list of companies that appeared on Shark Tank Season 14 Episode 9:
List with all the appearances in season 14 episode 9:
- ReadyFestive – A customizable holiday home décor subscription service that delivers themed decorations designed to match each customer’s style.
- ZipString – A handheld device that creates floating loops of string using airflow technology, allowing users to perform tricks and interactive movements.
- ChessUp – A smart electronic chess board designed to help players learn and improve their chess skills using LED guidance and a companion mobile app.
- Garage Celebrations – A reusable garage door banner system designed to transform garage doors into large decorations for birthdays and celebrations.
Shark Tank S14E9 Highlights
- Customizable holiday décor subscription service secures a deal
- A floating string toy device impresses multiple Sharks
- A smart AI-powered chess board lands a royalty deal
- A reusable garage door banner system designed for parties
- All four companies successfully secure Shark investments
Shark Tank S14E9 Episode Products Summary Table
The table below summarizes the key details from Shark Tank Season 14 Episode 9, including each company’s funding request, the final deal negotiated in the Tank, which Shark invested, and the current business status as of 2026.
This quick overview provides a snapshot of how each pitch performed and which entrepreneurs were able to secure investment from the Sharks.
| Company | Industry | Ask | Deal | Shark(s) | 2026 Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ReadyFestive | Home Decor Subscription | $250K for 10% | $250K for 18% | Robert Herjavec | Active ecommerce brand |
| ZipString | Toy / Entertainment Device | $100K for 10% | $100K for 20% | Robert Herjavec & Kevin O’Leary | Growing product brand |
| ChessUp | Smart Chess Board | $300K for 5% | $300K for 5% + 3% royalty | Lori Greiner | Expanding tech product |
| Garage Celebrations | Party Decor | $200K for 20% | $200K for 30% | Mark Cuban | Active celebration brand |
All four entrepreneurs appearing on Shark Tank Season 14 Episode 9 successfully secured deals after negotiations over valuation, equity, and scalability.
Unlike many episodes where at least one company leaves without an investment, Episode 9 resulted in a 100% deal rate, highlighting the strong interest from the Sharks in these innovative consumer products.
Several deals required founders to increase equity stakes or accept royalty structures, demonstrating how Sharks often structure investments to balance risk and potential return.
Shark Tank Season 14 Episode 9 Snapshot
Season: 14
Episode: 9
Air Date: December 9, 2022
Sharks: Mark Cuban, Lori Greiner, Kevin O’Leary, Barbara Corcoran, Robert Herjavec
Total Pitches: 4
Deals Made: 4
No-Deal Count: 0
Largest Equity Deal: 30% (Garage Celebrations)
Largest Investment: $300K (ChessUp)
Shark Tank S14E9 Investment Totals & Financial Breakdown
Shark Tank Season 14 Episode 9 featured approximately $850,000 in capital requests, with $850,000 invested by the Sharks on air.
Financial Aggregation
Total Capital Requested: $850K
Total Capital Invested: $850K
Total Capital Committed: $850K
Highest Equity Given: 30% (Garage Celebrations)
Highest Valuation Asked: $6M valuation (ChessUp – $300K for 5%)
Lowest Valuation Asked: $500K valuation (Garage Celebrations – $200K for 20%)
Average Equity Asked: ~11%
Average Equity Given (Deals Closed): ~18%
Valuation Compression Analysis
Shark Tank Season 14 Episode 9 showed notable negotiation pressure from the Sharks as founders adjusted their valuations to secure investment.
• ReadyFestive increased equity from 10% to 18% to secure Robert Herjavec’s deal.
• ZipString doubled equity from 10% to 20% for a partnership with Robert Herjavec and Kevin O’Leary.
• Garage Celebrations increased equity from 20% to 30% to close a deal with Mark Cuban.
• ChessUp maintained its equity stake but accepted a 3% royalty structure to finalize the deal with Lori Greiner.
These negotiations demonstrate how Sharks often require either increased ownership stakes or royalty structures when investing in early-stage companies.
Key Observations
- Holiday décor subscription services attract attention – ReadyFestive tapped into the seasonal home décor market with customizable design packages.
- Innovative toys can capture Shark interest – ZipString demonstrated a unique interactive toy concept with viral potential.
- Smart learning technology continues to grow – ChessUp combined traditional board games with AI-assisted learning tools.
- Celebration products remain strong consumer categories – Garage Celebrations offered a simple and scalable solution for party decorations.
Shark Tank Air Date: 12/09/22 – Season 14 – Episode 9
ReadyFestive
| ASKED FOR | GOT | SHARK |
| $250,000 for 10% | $250,000 for 18% | Robert Herjavec |
Entrepreneurs: Liz Voelker and Kristina Barnes
Product Overview
Decorating for the holidays can often feel overwhelming, but ReadyFestive makes the process simple and stress-free. The company offers personalized home décor boxes designed to match different holidays, themes, and design styles. From classic seasonal decorations to modern festive accents, ReadyFestive delivers curated décor packages that help homeowners create a beautifully decorated space without the hassle of shopping for individual pieces.
ReadyFestive appeared on Shark Tank Season 14, where founders Liz Voelker and Kristina Barnes pitched their customizable décor subscription service to the Sharks. The entrepreneurs were seeking $250,000 for 10% equity, presenting their business as a convenient solution for people who want stylish seasonal decorations without spending hours planning and decorating.
The ReadyFestive service allows customers to receive themed decoration boxes tailored to their home style and holiday preferences. Each package includes coordinated décor items designed to transform a space quickly and easily. Whether customers want a full holiday transformation or just a few festive touches, ReadyFestive aims to deliver curated designs directly to their doorstep.
By offering customizable décor collections and convenient delivery, ReadyFestive provides an easy way for homeowners to celebrate the holidays with beautifully styled decorations without the stress of planning and shopping.
ReadyFestive – 2026 Update
As of 2026, ReadyFestive continues operating as a customizable holiday décor subscription service designed to simplify seasonal decorating. The company gained significant exposure after appearing on Shark Tank Season 14, where the founders secured an investment from Robert Herjavec.
Following the show, ReadyFestive expanded its online presence and continued offering curated décor boxes tailored to different holidays and home styles. The brand remains focused on making holiday decorating convenient through personalized décor packages delivered directly to customers’ homes.
Where to Buy ReadyFestive
Want to see more of Robert Herjavec’s wellness investments? Browse his full Shark Tank portfolio.
ZipString
| ASKED FOR | GOT | SHARK |
| $100,000 for 10% | $100,000 for 20% | Robert Herjavec and Kevin O’Leary |
Entrepreneurs: Austin Hillam and Stephen Fazio
Product Overview
ZipString is an innovative handheld device that creates mesmerizing floating loops of string using aerodynamic airflow technology. The device generates a controlled stream of air that allows a thin loop of string to hover and move through the air, giving users the ability to perform tricks, guide the string around objects, and create interactive movements.
The device is rechargeable via micro-USB, eliminating the need for disposable batteries and making it convenient to use repeatedly. Once charged, ZipString is ready to create floating string loops that glide smoothly through the air and react to hand movements and surrounding objects. The lightweight design allows users to experiment with different tricks and creative movements as they guide the floating string through various shapes and patterns.
Because the floating string reacts to motion and airflow, users can create endless variations of tricks and movements. With practice, it becomes possible to perform more complex routines and guide the string along different surfaces and objects.
Before appearing on Shark Tank, ZipString gained early traction through a successful Kickstarter campaign that raised more than $90,000 from over 1,600 backers. Founders Austin Hillam and Stephen Fazio presented the product to the Sharks seeking $100,000 for 10% equity.
The Sharks were impressed by the unique toy concept and its viral potential. After negotiations, the founders secured a deal with Robert Herjavec and Kevin O’Leary for $100,000 in exchange for 20% of the company.
ZipString – 2026 Update
As of 2026, ZipString remains an active product brand known for its unique handheld device that creates floating loops of string using aerodynamic airflow. After securing a deal with Robert Herjavec and Kevin O’Leary, the product gained significant visibility among toy enthusiasts and content creators.
The device has continued to attract attention on social media platforms thanks to its visually engaging tricks and demonstrations. ZipString products are sold through the company’s official website and online retailers, where the brand markets the device as an interactive toy that encourages creativity and experimentation.
Where to Buy ZipString
Want to see more of Robert Herjavec’s wellness investments? Browse his full Shark Tank portfolio.
ChessUp – Chess Game with AI Technology
| ASKED FOR | GOT | SHARK |
| $300,000 for 5% | $300,000 for 5% equity plus a 3% royalty | Lori Greiner |
Entrepreneurs: Jeff Wigh and Adam Roush
Product Overview
ChessUp is a smart electronic chess board designed to help players learn and improve their chess skills through interactive technology. Developed by Bryght Labs, the board features a built-in chess engine and guidance system that helps players understand moves, strategies, and positioning while they play.
The ChessUp board uses specially designed TouchSense chess pieces that respond to movement and communicate directly with the board. LED lights built into the board highlight recommended moves, making it easier for beginners to learn the game while still providing a challenge for experienced players.
In addition to playing against the built-in engine, ChessUp allows users to connect to a companion mobile app and play online matches with friends or other chess enthusiasts around the world. The app also provides tutorials, skill tracking, and practice tools that help players improve their gameplay over time.
With its sleek and portable design, ChessUp brings modern technology to the classic game of chess. Players can enjoy traditional over-the-board play while benefiting from digital guidance, learning tools, and online connectivity.
The founders of Bryght Labs appeared on Shark Tank seeking $300,000 for 5% equity. After negotiations, they secured a deal with Lori Greiner for $300,000 for 5% equity plus a 3% royalty, helping bring the smart chess board to a wider audience.
ChessUp – 2026 Update
As of 2026, ChessUp continues expanding as an innovative smart chess board developed by Bryght Labs. The product gained national exposure after appearing on Shark Tank, where the founders secured a deal with Lori Greiner.
ChessUp remains popular among both beginner and experienced chess players thanks to its built-in LED guidance system and companion mobile app. The company continues selling its smart chess boards online and has grown its reputation as a technology-driven learning tool that helps players improve their chess skills.
Where to Buy ChessUp
Interested in more Shark Tank kitchen products? Explore Lori Greiner’s kitchen investments to see other cooking and home deals she’s backed.
Garage Celebrations
| ASKED FOR | GOT | SHARK |
| $200,000 for 20% | $200,000 for 30% | Mark Cuban |
Entrepreneurs: Bill Webster Sr. and Bill Webster Jr.
Product Overview
Bill Webster Sr. and Bill Webster Jr. appeared on Shark Tank to pitch their company Garage Celebrations, a business built around creating large, eye-catching party displays using garage doors. The father-and-son entrepreneurs from California launched the company in 2021 with the idea of transforming ordinary garages into festive decorations for birthdays, graduations, and other celebrations.
Garage Celebrations produces reusable banner kits that attach to garage doors and instantly turn them into large party displays. The banners feature colorful designs and messages that help families celebrate special occasions in a fun and memorable way. The concept is simple but effective, allowing homeowners to decorate their homes for events without the time and expense of traditional party decorations.
During their pitch, the Websters asked the Sharks for $200,000 in exchange for 20% equity in their company. The Sharks appreciated the creativity and simplicity of the product, and after negotiations the founders accepted an offer from Mark Cuban for $200,000 in exchange for 30% equity.
The deal helped bring national exposure to the brand and introduced the product to a wider audience looking for easy and reusable party decorations.
Garage Celebrations – 2026 Update
As of 2026, Garage Celebrations continues offering reusable garage door banners designed to transform garages into large decorative displays for birthdays, graduations, and other celebrations. The company received national exposure after appearing on Shark Tank, where founders Bill Webster Sr. and Bill Webster Jr. secured an investment from Mark Cuban.
Following the show, the brand continued selling celebration banners through its website and online marketplaces. Garage Celebrations focuses on providing durable, reusable party decorations that make it easy for families to create eye-catching displays for special occasions.
Where to Buy Garage Celebrations
Interested in more Shark Tank kitchen products? Explore Mark Cuban’s largest food and restaurant investments.
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Industry Breakdown – Shark Tank S14E9
Holiday Home Decor: 1
Interactive Toy Device: 1
Smart Board Game Technology: 1
Party Decoration Products: 1
Compared to other Shark Tank Season 14 episodes, Episode 9 leaned toward:
• Seasonal home décor and celebration products
• Interactive entertainment and toy devices
• Smart technology designed to improve learning and gameplay
• Products designed for parties, holidays, and special occasions
• Founder-driven consumer brands with strong ecommerce potential
Did the Deals Close After Filming?
As with all Shark Tank deals, agreements made on television are subject to due diligence after filming.
As of 2026:
• ReadyFestive continues operating as a customizable holiday décor brand offering curated decoration packages delivered directly to customers’ homes.
• ZipString remains available through its official website and online retailers, continuing to promote its unique floating string toy device.
• ChessUp continues expanding as a smart chess board developed by Bryght Labs, attracting players looking for technology-assisted learning tools.
• Garage Celebrations remains active, selling reusable garage door banner kits designed for birthdays, graduations, and celebrations.
There is no public evidence suggesting that the on-air deals for ReadyFestive, ZipString, ChessUp, or Garage Celebrations fell through after filming.
Best Deal of Shark Tank Season 14 Episode 9 (S14E9)
ChessUp stands out as the strongest deal of S14E9 due to several factors:
• A smart board game product combining technology and education
• Strong appeal among both beginner and experienced chess players
• Built-in AI learning tools and mobile app connectivity
• A unique royalty deal structure negotiated with a Shark
• Strong growth potential within the educational technology market
However, ZipString also demonstrated strong viral potential due to its visually engaging toy concept that performs well on social media and video platforms.
🦈 Shark Strategy Patterns in This S14E9 Episode
Robert Herjavec invested in both ReadyFestive and ZipString, focusing on consumer products with strong ecommerce potential.
Kevin O’Leary partnered on the ZipString deal, recognizing the toy’s viral marketing potential.
Lori Greiner negotiated a royalty-based deal for ChessUp, a structure she occasionally uses for innovative consumer products.
Mark Cuban invested in Garage Celebrations after seeing potential in the party decoration category.
Barbara Corcoran evaluated the businesses but did not close a deal in this episode.
Episode 9 demonstrated that simple consumer products with strong visual appeal and clear use cases can successfully attract Shark investment.
Why Shark Tank Season 14 Episode 9 Stands Out
This episode is notable because it featured:
• A customizable holiday décor subscription service
• A viral floating string toy device with strong entertainment value
• A smart chess board combining technology with traditional gameplay
• A reusable garage door decoration system for celebrations
• A rare episode where all four businesses secured deals
Season 14 Episode 9 showcased how creative consumer products with strong visual appeal and practical applications can capture the Sharks’ attention.
Final Thoughts on Shark Tank Season 14 Episode 9 (S14E9)
Shark Tank Season 14 Episode 9 reinforced an important theme of the series:
Simple ideas that solve everyday problems or create memorable experiences can become successful businesses.
All four entrepreneurs successfully secured investments by demonstrating unique products with clear market appeal, showing how creativity and strong product design can lead to successful deals in the Tank.
Explore More Shark Tank Guides
• Shark Tank Season 14 Episode 8 Recap
• Shark Tank Season 14 Episode 10 Recap
• Shark Tank Season 14 – Full Episode Guide
• Best Deals of Shark Tank Season 14
Frequently Asked Questions About Shark Tank Season 14 Episode 9
When did Shark Tank Season 14 Episode 9 (S14E9) air?
Shark Tank Season 14 Episode 9 originally aired on December 9, 2022, on ABC.
What companies appeared on Shark Tank Season 14 Episode 9 S14E9?
Four companies appeared in this episode:
• ReadyFestive – A customizable holiday décor subscription service that delivers themed decorations tailored to each customer’s home style.
• ZipString – A handheld device that creates floating loops of string using aerodynamic airflow technology for tricks and interactive play.
• ChessUp – A smart electronic chess board designed to help players learn and improve their chess skills using built-in LED guidance and a companion app.
• Garage Celebrations – A reusable garage door banner system designed to transform garages into large decorative displays for birthdays and special occasions.
Who got a deal in Shark Tank Season 14 Episode 9?
All four companies secured deals with the Sharks:
• ReadyFestive
• ZipString
• ChessUp
• Garage Celebrations
How much total money was invested in Shark Tank S14E9
Approximately $850,000 was invested across the four businesses during Shark Tank Season 14 Episode 9.
Which company received the largest investment?
The largest deal in the episode was $300,000 for 5% equity plus a 3% royalty in ChessUp, secured from Lori Greiner.
Did any companies leave without a deal in Shark Tank Season 14 Episode 9?
No. Episode 9 resulted in a 100% deal rate, with all four entrepreneurs successfully securing investments from the Sharks.
What industries were represented in S14E9?
Episode 9 featured businesses in several consumer product categories:
• Holiday home décor and seasonal decoration subscriptions
• Interactive toy and entertainment devices
• Smart board game technology
• Party and celebration decorations
Is ReadyFestive still in business in 2026?
Yes. ReadyFestive continues operating as a holiday décor brand offering customizable seasonal decoration packages delivered directly to customers’ homes.
Is ZipString still selling in 2026?
Yes. ZipString remains available through its official website and online retailers and continues to attract attention through viral videos and demonstrations.
Is Garage Celebrations still available in 2026?
Yes. Garage Celebrations continues selling reusable garage door celebration banners designed for birthdays, graduations, and other special events.
Is ChessUp still in business in 2026?
Yes. ChessUp continues growing as a smart electronic chess board developed by Bryght Labs. The product remains popular among beginner and experienced chess players thanks to its LED move guidance system and companion mobile app.
