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In Shark Tank season 11 episode 2, entrepreneur Amber Leong presented Circadian Optics, seeking $750,000 for 10% equity at a $7.5 million valuation. The Minnesota-based light therapy company had reached $7.4 million in lifetime sales and $4 million annual sales with a 70% profit margin
During discussions, she shared how her parents had spent their retirement savings to fund her move from Malaysia to study in Minnesota, and how she had been diagnosed with a fatal disease but survived. When Leong finished explaining her personal story and business success, Cuban stated:
"You represent why we all do this show. You represent to everybody in America, everybody that watches this show, that it doesn't matter where you come from if you put your mind to it anything is possible. You represent everything great about entrepreneurship, the American dream. You are freedom, so thank you for sharing that with us."
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In the end, Leong left the Shark Tank with Mark Cuban and Lori Greiner’s combined offer in exchange for 20% equity.
Mark Cuban praised Malaysian immigrant's $4 million light therapy business on Shark Tank
The Minneapolis founder walked into the Shark Tank with a solution for people spending long hours in dark offices. Her lamp line provides measured light doses that match natural sunlight patterns without UV exposure.
Independent studies backed her claims, showing 85% of users reported better sleep quality. The company caught Sharks' attention with its varied designs that fit different spaces while meeting therapeutic standards.
Leong broke down specific market data showing millions of office workers experiencing disrupted sleep patterns. Her sales figures demonstrated strong market acceptance across multiple consumer segments. The presentation included live demonstrations of different lamp models, each programmed to deliver precise light measurements for maximum effectiveness.
Barbara Corcoran and Kevin O'Leary formed the first team to make an offer. They proposed $750,000 for 20% equity based on current sales figures. Mark Cuban and Lori Greiner matched the offer with an additional $50,000 for Leong's parents which was accepted. Guest Shark Rohan Oza stepped out, stating he lacked relevant market expertise to add value.
Post-Tank performance
After the show aired, Circadian Optics sales increased significantly. The company maintained its $4 million annual revenue through 2022, per Shark Tank Blog. Market changes during 2020-2021 brought new customer segments seeking home office solutions. Product lines expanded to meet varied user requirements.
The Shark Tank company strengthened its Amazon marketplace presence. Customer reviews showed high satisfaction rates with light therapy results. Sales data indicated growing demand in regions with limited daylight hours. Distribution expanded through healthcare provider networks.
Recent company updates show continued market presence. Online sales remain strong with positive customer responses. The company maintains its focus on light therapy innovation. Product development continues based on user experience data.
Product background
The therapy lamp concept emerged from Leong's time in a Minneapolis office with minimal natural light access. Through extensive research into sleep science, she developed specific light intensity requirements for optimal results. Each lamp undergoes testing to ensure consistent light delivery across its operating time. The products run on both main power and batteries to support flexible usage patterns.
Shark Tank entrepreneur’s research into circadian rhythms led to creating multiple light settings for different times of day. The lamps adjust automatically to maintain proper light exposure sequences. Quality controls ensure each unit meets medical-grade light specifications. Production processes keep costs low while maintaining high-performance standards.
Before starting Circadian Optics, Leong lived in a small Malaysian village. Her parents put $10,000 from their retirement into her education at Bemidji State University. After graduating, she built a successful corporate career with a six-figure salary. Working long hours in artificially lit offices showed her the need for better lighting solutions.
Shark Tank season 16 is airing on ABC network.
