Shark Tank at Mazuma!

We recently had the opportunity to host entrepreneurs and small business owners from across the Kansas City metropolitan area and beyond as they attended an open casting call for ABC’s Shark Tank. In partnership with KMBC9 (our local ABC affiliate), we provided the community room of our Overland Park Headquarters for aspiring contestants to gather and get ready before pitching to Shark Tank producers in hopes of appearing on the hit TV program.

Hundreds of innovators from across the country lined up down the back sidewalk as early as 4:00am for their chance to bring national recognition to their products. Teams from Mazuma and Shark Tank welcomed the attendees, who brought an infectious energy of anticipation, drive, and determination as they prepared to wow the producers with a 1-minute pitch.

“It’s a really exciting day for us,” said Kurt Niemackl, Founder and Owner of Kurt’s Bars, an oat-based energy and endurance bar available in several flavors. “As a small businessowner here in the middle of the country, it means a lot to have the opportunity to reach a bigger audience. And the location was so convenient!”

Supporting Small Businesses

Michelle Wood, Mazuma’s Chief Culture Officer, reflected that “The opportunity to partner with Shark Tank is meaningful for us as a people-driven, not-for-profit financial institution that supports small businesses. These entrepreneurs and innovators, many of them from Kansas City, bring such an incredible energy and forward-motion to our community. It’s been wonderful to share our space with them today.”

Mazuma is passionate about uplifting the local business owners and entrepreneurs that contribute so much to our Kansas City community! Our Small Business Banking and Treasury Management Teams were on hand to discuss the wide range of products and services we offer that can help businesses grow and thrive.

We’re rooting for all the dedicated innovators who passed through our Headquarters that day and are hoping to see some familiar faces on Shark Tank next season!

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