Pakistan set to host its first-ever Shark Tank series soon

Pakistan is set to get its own "Shark Tank,” after the Grenlit Studios secured the franchise, putting the country's entrepreneurial talent on the global stage.

The show empowers aspiring entrepreneurs to pitch their business ideas to leading investors for a chance to secure funding.

The show's format originated in Japan in 2001 as "Tigers of Money." It was later adapted in the UK as "Dragon's Den" (2005) and in the US as "Shark Tank" (2009).

The popular business show has been broadcast in numerous countries with its 50th edition recently aired in Bangladesh in 2022. Sony Pictures Television distributes the licenses for international adaptations.

Biz Asia first reported the news of the popular reality show "Shark Tank" coming to Pakistan. They revealed that Grenlit Studios acquired the franchise from Sony Pictures Television.

“We are thrilled to bring the monumental success and global appeal of Shark Tank to Pakistan,” the Co-founder and CEO Grenlit Studios Usman Malik said.

“This collaboration with Sony Pictures Television not only marks a significant milestone for Grenlit Studios but also underlines our commitment to fostering innovation and entrepreneurship within Pakistan,” he added. 

In an interview with a local newspaper, Usman Malik emphasised that the show's success hinges on two key factors. 

Firstly, the format needs to be updated to reflect the interests of local viewers to ensure they connect with it. Secondly, finding credible and effective investors will be crucial to drive the show's popularity.

Pakistan's upcoming Shark Tank will feature a panel of seven local investors, also known as "sharks," who will judge emerging entrepreneurs. 

These investors include Rabeel Warraich of the venture capital firm Sarmayacar, Junaid Iqbal, who played a key role in Careem's expansion in Pakistan, Aleena Nadim, a Forbes 30 Under 30 Asia recipient, and Romana Dada, who heads the Saudi Sovereign Wealth Fund's operations in Pakistan.

The team is also seeking compelling pitches for investors but the show's release date is not yet disclosed.