Full Breakdown
R1SE Secures Investment on ABC's "Shark Tank"
3/27/2026, 12:34:37 PM
Major Investment on National Television
R1SE, a youth academic support company based in Freeland, Michigan, successfully secured a significant investment during its appearance on ABC's "Shark Tank." The episode aired on Wednesday night, showcasing R1SE's mission to provide tutoring, mentoring, academic training, social education, and recreational activities to students. Founded by Trevor Szafranski, who has 15 years of experience in education, R1SE currently serves approximately 600 students across its locations in Freeland and Midland, with plans for a third site in Frankenmuth.
The Pitch and Investment Details
During the pitch, Szafranski presented a proposal seeking $3 million for a 15% equity stake in R1SE. The show's hosts expressed concerns regarding the affordability of R1SE's services, which are priced at $15 per student per hour with a two-hour minimum. Despite these concerns, Kevin O'Leary, a prominent investor on the show, praised the concept as "genius," emphasizing the importance of making such programs accessible to all young people. Ultimately, Barbara Corcoran, another "Shark Tank" investor, agreed to invest in R1SE under the condition that her investment would be repaid within three years.
Background and Context
R1SE was founded by Szafranski after his extensive career in education, including teaching at the Swan Valley School District. The company aims to address academic challenges faced by students, providing essential support that extends beyond traditional tutoring. The appearance on "Shark Tank" marks a pivotal moment for R1SE, potentially increasing its visibility and resources to expand its services.
Official Statements & Responses
Trevor Szafranski expressed excitement about the investment, highlighting the potential for R1SE to enhance its offerings and reach more students. He stated, "This opportunity allows us to grow and provide even better support for our community." The investment from Corcoran is expected to facilitate the development of the new location in Frankenmuth and improve existing services.
Criticism & Opposition
While the investment was celebrated, some critics raised concerns about the sustainability of R1SE's low-cost model. The apprehension centers around whether the company can maintain quality services while adhering to the pricing structure that makes it accessible to families in need.
What's Next
Following the airing of the episode, R1SE plans to leverage the exposure gained from "Shark Tank" to attract more students and potentially secure additional funding opportunities. The episode featuring R1SE will be available for streaming on Hulu and Disney+ starting Thursday, allowing a wider audience to learn about the company's mission and impact.