It’s always great to see kids pitch a product on Shark Tank. At age 13, Maddox Prichard featured on the show pitching his invention, The Measuring Shovel, a garden shovel with a built-in yardstick. Though they got a deal with Kevin O’Leary and Lori Greiner, it never closed. As of 2024, The Measuring Shovel is worth $250,000.
Maddox Prichard’s Background
Maddox Prichard hails from Nashville, Tennessee. He has a sister named Brenna and his mother, Amanda, works as a CFO at Sumner County Schools. Sadly his father passed away from cancer in July 2019.
While Maddox was in fourth grade, he had a school project to invent something that could make life easier. His mom asked for help in the garden, and he experienced the inconvenience of using a measuring tape every time after digging a hole.
It was done to help plants grow properly, but it was a hassle. After a long brainstorming session, this inspired young Maddox to build a shovel that had an ingrained measuring scale.
Founding The Measuring Shovel
He created the prototype at 10 years old, the Tennessee native presented his invention at the National Invention Convention and the Tennessee Invention Convention. The simple yet unique product won him multiple awards.
He also became a speaker and even a judge at several events. Due to the functions included in the product and its novel design, it makes gardening simple and precise.
Prichard’s school principal persuaded him to file for a patent. A local lawyer generously helped him get the patent and didn’t charge a fee. To get his startup off the ground, he needed help from seasoned entrepreneurs.
Shark Tank Pitch
Even though the company was still in its pre-launch phase in 2019, the founder and his family were positive they would get a deal. They joined the show in season 11, offering 15% equity for $40,000.
Maddox and Amanda made the pitch while Jason and Brenna helped with the demonstrations. The Sharks were impressed at what Maddox had accomplished at a young age. Moreover, they weren’t bothered that production hadn’t started yet.
Kevin O’Leary and Lori Greiner suggested Maddox take a licensing deal and offered $40,000 for 30%. Guest investor Daniel Lubetzky offered $40,000 for 25% if the founder was ready to be more hands-on. Maddox chose Lori and Kevin but put up a fight for an extra $10,000 but O’Leary wouldn’t budge.
What Happened After Shark Tank?
Five years have passed, The Measuring Shovel is still not available on the market and not making any revenue. According to Sharktankblog.com, the deal with Kevin and Lori never closed.
The company is still operating today and their website is active. In September 2023, Maddox posted on Facebook revealing that he was working with a company to get The Measuring Shovel manufactured. Despite the delay, Maddox performed well under intense pressure during the pitch and I’m sure his parents are proud!
Currently, The Measuring Shovel is worth an estimated $250,000 because of the patent they hold. Hopefully, they will secure a licensing deal with a large company and just earn revenue off royalties.
