Think You’ve Got The Next Big Idea? Shark Tank Is Coming To Philly!

Photo Credit: Business Wire

Aspiring Entrepreneurs, This is Your Shot!

If you’ve ever shouted at your TV during Shark Tank, convinced you could nail a pitch and land a deal, now’s your chance. The Emmy Award-winning ABC show is holding an open casting call in Philadelphia, giving local entrepreneurs the rare opportunity to impress the show’s producers and possibly swim with the Sharks in Season 17.

Where and When?

In collaboration with WPVI-TV/6abc, Shark Tank casting producers are setting up shop at The Event Center at Rivers Philadelphia in Fishtown. The last time Philly hosted a casting call was in 2017, so this is a big deal for the city’s growing entrepreneur scene.

• Date: Friday, April 11
• Location: The Event Center at Rivers Philadelphia, Fishtown
• Time: Wristbands distributed from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.; pitches begin at approximately 10 a.m.
• Line-up Starts: 8 a.m.

Want in? You can apply online at ABC.com or fill out an application on-site the morning of the event.

Philly’s Passion is on Display

The Shark Tank team is excited to return to the City of Brotherly Love. “We’re eager to return to Philly after so many years to see how the entrepreneur community has grown. We can’t wait to see Philly’s famous passion in every pitch,” said Mindy Zemrak, CSA, Supervising Casting Producer of Shark Tank. Zemrak, who’s been with the show since its debut in 2009, knows exactly what it takes to impress the Sharks.

Philadelphia’s History of Shark Tank Success

Philly’s entrepreneurs have a strong track record in the Tank. Remember Scrub Daddy? In Season 4, Wynnewood’s Aaron Krause secured a deal with Lori Greiner, and his smiley-faced sponge went on to become the best-selling sponge of all time. More recently, Reading-based Bro Glo, a self-tanner designed for men, won over Mark Cuban in Season 16. Could the next Shark Tank success story come from this casting call?

The Sharks Are Waiting… Are You Ready?

Landing a deal with a Shark isn’t just about money—it’s about mentorship, connections, and a shot at national exposure. “Shark Tank is all about making dreams come true and helping entrepreneurs take their businesses and products to the next level,” said Susan Foster, general manager of Rivers Philadelphia. “We’re thrilled to host this rare local opportunity to land a spot on national TV and potentially secure a Shark’s life-changing investment.”

This season’s confirmed Sharks include:

• Barbara Corcoran (Real Estate Mogul)
• Lori Greiner (The “Queen of QVC”)
• Robert Herjavec (Technology Innovator)
• Daymond John (Fashion and Branding Expert)
• Kevin O’Leary (“Mr. Wonderful” – Venture Capitalist)

New and guest Sharks may still be announced, but one thing is for sure—if you bring your A-game, this could be the start of something big.

Hook a Shark, Land the Deal of a Lifetime

Every participant gets a one-minute shot to pitch their idea to the Casting Team. If you can impress them, you’ll be one step closer to standing in front of the Sharks themselves. (The Sharks do not participate in casting calls)

So, if you’ve got a groundbreaking product, an innovative business, or a hustle you believe in, this is your shot. Sharpen your pitch, perfect your game, and get ready to make a splash in Philly. Who knows? You might just land the deal of a lifetime!

Good luck!