A peculiar pitch unfolded in the latest episode of Shark Tank India, currently in its fourth season. Four founders walked in, introducing their business F2DF – Kisaan Ki Online Dukaan. Their company aimed to revolutionize the agriculture sector by eliminating middlemen and directly connecting farmers with buyers. Confidently, they asked for ₹50 lakh in exchange for 1% equity, placing their valuation at ₹50 crore. They claimed to have access to a network of 17 crore farmers and projected revenue of ₹10 crore for the year.
The sharks listened but were not entirely convinced. The founders mentioned they had previously raised ₹20 lakh at a ₹20 crore valuation. Namita Thapar was the first to question the logic behind their numbers. When asked how they arrived at this valuation, they simply responded that an external party had calculated it for them.
Their pitch focused on the vast opportunities in the Indian agriculture sector. They assured the sharks that even if 100 new players entered the space, there was enough room for everyone. Their mission was to ensure that farmers received the highest possible profits by cutting out unnecessary intermediaries.
As the CEO and COO passionately explained their vision, Anupam Mittal’s attention shifted to a young woman standing beside them. He looked at her and asked, “What’s your role in the company?” She introduced herself as a director. Curiosity sparked among the sharks. When the equity split was revealed, it turned out that she owned a majority 51% stake. Anupam immediately reacted, calling her a “silent partner.”
His curiosity deepened. He wanted to know how she became the majority shareholder. She smiled and shared her story. She explained that after her marriage, her family gifted her ₹40 lakh, which she originally planned to save for a house. But her husband, Neeraj, who is also the CEO, had other plans. “He took it,” she said lightheartedly.
The conversation took an even more dramatic turn when Anupam asked if that was the extent of her financial contribution. The COO revealed, “No, we sold her gold as well.” At this, Anupam let out an exaggerated gasp, unable to hide his shock.
Wanting to know if she had demanded control or if it was simply given to her, he asked if the majority stake was her idea. She firmly responded that she had insisted on it, saying that since she put in the money, she deserved the shares. Her response earned an unexpected reaction. Both Anupam and Aman Gupta got up from their seats and clapped. Ritesh Agarwal and Namita also admired her assertiveness.
Despite the entertainment, the sharks struggled to see how they could add value to the business. Peyush Bansal was the first to admit that he didn’t think he could significantly contribute to their growth. The other sharks agreed. The founders, however, believed the sharks had connections that could open doors for them.
Aman Gupta, intrigued by the industry and wanting to learn more about agriculture, made an unusual offer. He proposed ₹5 lakh for 2% equity and ₹45 lakh as debt. The COO was taken aback. He immediately questioned the valuation, saying, “I came here asking for a ₹50 crore valuation, and you’re giving me ₹2.5 crore?”
Aman calmly explained that he wasn’t valuing their company at all. Instead, he was offering guidance and support. The deal wasn’t about numbers, it was about opportunity. The founders hesitated but ultimately agreed, surprising everyone in the room.
While they didn’t secure the investment they initially sought, they left with a unique partnership. Their pitch may have been unconventional, but it certainly left a lasting impression on the sharks.