Have you ever wanted a stick figure drawing of a cat? Well, Steve Gadlin has turned this simple idea into a successful business called “I Want to Draw a Cat For You.” This unique online venture offers customers the opportunity to have custom stick figure cat drawings based on their descriptions.
Steve Gadlin’s entrepreneurial journey took an exciting turn when he appeared on Season 3 of Shark Tank, the popular reality TV show where aspiring entrepreneurs pitch their businesses to a panel of investors. With his humorous pitch and captivating product, Steve caught the attention of the Sharks and secured a deal with billionaire investor Mark Cuban.
Currently, “I Want to Draw a Cat For You” has an estimated net worth of $200,000, showcasing the company’s success and Steve Gadlin’s entrepreneurial spirit.
Key Takeaways:
- Steve Gadlin created an online business called “I Want to Draw a Cat For You” that offers custom stick figure cat drawings.
- He appeared on Shark Tank, securing a deal with investor Mark Cuban.
- The company’s net worth is estimated to be $200,000.
- “I Want to Draw a Cat For You” demonstrates the power of a unique and quirky business idea.
- Steve Gadlin’s journey showcases the ongoing success of his creative product.
About the Founder – Steve Gadlin
Steve Gadlin, a Chicago native, is the creative mind behind the popular online business “I Want to Draw a Cat For You.” Born on February 27, 1976, in Illinois, Steve’s passion for creative writing led him to study the art at Miami University. He honed his skills as a web developer while working for various companies, but it was his comedic talents that truly set him apart.
As a comedian, Steve entertained audiences with his unique brand of humor, combining wit and charm to captivate his listeners. His talent for making people laugh soon translated into his venture as a businessman, where he found success with “I Want to Draw a Cat For You.”
Combining his creative writing skills, web development expertise, and comedic flair, Steve Gadlin brought the concept of stick figure cat drawings to life. “I Want to Draw a Cat For You” quickly gained popularity, becoming a unique and whimsical way for people to express themselves and own a personalized piece of art.
Driven by his passion for creativity and entrepreneurship, Steve Gadlin has successfully carved a niche for himself in the business world. His ability to turn a simple idea into a profitable venture showcases his ingenuity and determination.
Steve’s journey from a creative writer and web developer to a comedian and successful businessman is a testament to his unwavering dedication and unique approach to business.
Founding the Company
In 2011, Steve Gadlin embarked on a unique venture, launching his online business called “I Want to Draw a Cat For You”. This bold experiment was aimed at testing the viability of a concept that involved selling stick figure drawings of cats to customers. With the initial launch of the website, Steve relied on just a PayPal button and a compelling YouTube video to attract customers. The premise was simple and enticing – customers could have a custom stick figure cat drawing created based on their description for a reasonable price of around $10.
However, despite the simplicity and charm of this idea, the business faced its fair share of challenges. Scalability proved to be one such obstacle, as it was difficult to attract a sufficient number of orders to sustain a thriving enterprise. Yet, undeterred by these hurdles, Steve remained determined to make his venture a success.
Through creative marketing strategies and the compelling appeal of his stick figure cats, Steve sought to overcome these initial challenges and establish a solid foundation for his business. The resulting website launch marked the beginning of a journey that would captivate an audience and create a demand for these whimsical and endearing drawings.
Shark Tank Appearance
In 2012, Steve Gadlin had the opportunity to pitch his unique business idea, “I Want to Draw a Cat For You,” on the popular TV show Shark Tank. Armed with his humor and stick figure cat drawings, Steve aimed to secure a $10,000 investment for 25% of his company.
During his captivating pitch, Steve impressed the panel of Sharks, which included well-known investors such as Mark Cuban, Kevin O’Leary, and Robert Herjavec. Their attention was drawn to the unconventional nature of Steve’s product and its potential in the market.
“I’ve got ten of your cats framed in my office,” said Mark Cuban, expressing his interest in Steve’s cat drawings.
Ultimately, it was Mark Cuban who saw the potential in Steve’s business and made an offer. Mark offered $25,000 for a larger stake of 33% in the company, and Steve gladly accepted the deal. This partnership with Mark Cuban opened up new opportunities for “I Want to Draw a Cat For You” to thrive and expand its reach.
After Shark Tank
After Steve Gadlin appeared on Shark Tank and secured a deal with Mark Cuban, the popularity of “I Want to Draw a Cat For You” soared, resulting in a significant increase in website traffic and orders. Taking advantage of this newfound success, Steve expanded his product line to include cat-themed novelty items, appealing to a broader audience of cat lovers.
Following his appearance on the show, Steve temporarily stepped away from the business to focus on other ventures. He hosted a talk show called Talkin’ Funny, where he interviewed comedians and showcased his own witty humor. Additionally, Steve launched a talent show called Steve Gadlin’s Star Makers, which featured unique performers and entertainers.
In 2021, Steve decided to resurrect “I Want to Draw a Cat For You” and resumed drawing cats for customers. Each drawing is now sold for $10, allowing more people to enjoy his whimsical stick figure cat art. Moreover, Steve made a heartwarming announcement that he would be drawing one cat per day in 2022, with the proceeds going to a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting animal welfare.
It’s evident that even after his success on Shark Tank and his various ventures, Steve Gadlin’s passion for drawing cats remains strong, bringing joy and laughter to cat lovers around the world.
Cat-Themed Novelties
In addition to his cat drawings, Steve Gadlin has expanded his product line to include cat-themed novelty items. These unique and playful items allow customers to express their love for cats in various creative ways. From mugs and t-shirts to phone cases and keychains, Steve’s cat-themed novelties offer a chance for cat enthusiasts to showcase their feline obsession with pride.
| Product | Description |
|---|---|
 | A charming cat-shaped mug perfect for sipping your morning coffee or tea. |
 | A trendy t-shirt featuring a cute cat design, ideal for cat lovers to wear with pride. |
 | A stylish phone case adorned with adorable cat illustrations, protecting your phone in purrfect style. |
 | A delightful keychain featuring a miniature cat charm, adding a touch of feline flair to your keys. |
These cat-themed novelty items make fantastic gifts for cat lovers or a special treat for yourself. With a range of products to choose from, you can find the purrfect item that reflects your love for these lovable feline creatures.
Second Source – The Business’s Journey
After drawing 18,794 cat drawings and receiving a significant investment from Mark Cuban, Steve Gadlin made the difficult decision to temporarily close down his business, “I Want to Draw a Cat For You.” Despite appearing successful on the surface, various factors, such as the investor’s stake and profit margins, influenced this closure.
However, Steve’s passion for his cat drawing career eventually led him to reopen the business and resume delighting customers with his unique stick figure cat drawings.
“I had to take a step back and evaluate the financials and the future prospects of the business. Although the closure was a tough call, it allowed me to recalibrate and think about the long-term sustainability of my cat drawing career,” says Steve Gadlin.
With a newfound perspective, Steve recommitted himself to his creative endeavor, determined to provide joy and laughter to cat enthusiasts around the world.
Through perseverance and the support of his loyal customers, Steve has overcome the challenges that initially led to the business closure. He has now revitalized his cat drawing career and is once again fulfilling orders for his beloved stick figure feline creations.
Third Source – Valuation and Business Status
The valuation of “I Want to Draw a Cat For You” during the Shark Tank pitch was $40,000. After receiving an investment from Mark Cuban, the valuation increased to $75,758. As of 2023, the company is still operating and has sold over 21,000 cat drawings. Customers can purchase a drawing for $9.95 each. The business’s net worth is estimated to be around $200,000 to $250,000.
Forbes Magazine Feature
Forbes Magazine, a renowned publication covering finance, business, and entrepreneurial success stories, recently featured “I Want to Draw a Cat For You” in an article that shed light on Mark Cuban’s involvement in the business. The article provided valuable insights into the unique and quirky world of cat drawings, along with the impact of Mark Cuban’s investment.
The Forbes article highlighted the fact that Mark Cuban himself took an active role in the business by personally creating ten cat drawings, each priced at $1,000. His direct involvement not only added a personal touch to the drawings but also showcased his support for the venture.
“I Want to Draw a Cat For You” has caught the attention of both cat lovers and art enthusiasts. With Mark Cuban’s participation, the value and significance of these drawings have reached new heights, making them more than just amateur notepad doodles.” – Art Valuation Expert
In addition to Mark Cuban’s role, the Forbes article discussed the reopening of “I Want to Draw a Cat For You” under the leadership of Steve Gadlin. The business has made adjustments to the pricing strategy, with each drawing now being sold for $29.95, reflecting an increased valuation and demand for Steve’s distinctive cat drawings.
The Forbes Magazine feature gave “I Want to Draw a Cat For You” the recognition it deserves, solidifying its position as a unique and successful business in the art industry. The article showcased the fusion of creativity, entrepreneurship, and the pursuit of unconventional ideas that shape the modern business landscape, with Mark Cuban and Steve Gadlin at the forefront of this exciting journey.
Is I Want to Draw a Cat For You Still in Business?
Yes, “I Want to Draw a Cat For You” is still in business. After a temporary closure, Steve Gadlin reopened the business and is now taking new orders for $29.95 per drawing. Despite the increased price, the demand for his drawings remains high, and he has sold over 400 cat drawings since reopening.
Customer Testimonials
“I absolutely love the cat drawing I received from ‘I Want to Draw a Cat For You.’ It perfectly captured my cat’s unique personality, and the attention to detail was incredible.” – Sarah
“I never thought I would pay almost $30 for a stick figure drawing, but after seeing the quality and creativity of Steve’s work, it was definitely worth it. I highly recommend ‘I Want to Draw a Cat For You’ to all cat lovers.” – Michael
Why Choose ‘I Want to Draw a Cat For You’?
- Unique and personalized stick figure cat drawings
- Attention to detail and customer specifications
- High-quality artwork that captures each cat’s individuality
- Supports a small business and artist
Despite a temporary closure, ‘I Want to Draw a Cat For You’ has reopened its doors and continues to meet the drawing demand of cat enthusiasts everywhere. With over 400 cat drawings sold and a growing customer base, Steve Gadlin’s business is thriving once again.
Conclusion – Steve Gadlin’s Business Journey
Steve Gadlin’s entrepreneurial journey with “I Want to Draw a Cat For You” is a testament to the power of a quirky and unique business idea. Despite facing challenges, including a temporary closure, Steve’s unwavering determination allowed him to reopen the business and continue providing his delightful stick figure cat drawings to customers.
His appearance on Shark Tank not only brought him the investment he needed but also gave him significant exposure and recognition. The success of “I Want to Draw a Cat For You” on the show demonstrated the appeal and demand for Steve’s creative product. By capturing the attention of sharks like Mark Cuban and securing a deal, Steve proved that even the most unconventional ideas can find success in the world of entrepreneurship.
Today, the business is thriving with an ongoing demand for Steve’s unique drawings. The popularity of “I Want to Draw a Cat For You” is a testament to Steve’s talent and the connection he has established with his audience. Despite the ups and downs of his entrepreneurial journey, Steve’s determination and passion for his craft have propelled his business to new heights.
As Steve Gadlin continues to draw cats and bring joy to his customers, “I Want to Draw a Cat For You” remains a shining example of how an innovative idea, combined with perseverance, can lead to a successful and fulfilling ongoing business venture.
FAQ
What is “I Want to Draw a Cat For You” and who is the founder?
“I Want to Draw a Cat For You” is an online business created by Steve Gadlin. He sells stick figure drawings of cats.
Did “I Want to Draw a Cat For You” appear on Shark Tank?
Yes, “I Want to Draw a Cat For You” appeared on Season 3 of Shark Tank and secured a deal with Mark Cuban.
What is the current net worth of “I Want to Draw a Cat For You”?
The current net worth of “I Want to Draw a Cat For You” is estimated to be 0,000.
When and where was Steve Gadlin born?
Steve Gadlin was born on February 27, 1976, in Illinois, United States.
What did Steve Gadlin study and what was his previous work experience?
Steve Gadlin studied creative writing at Miami University and worked as a web developer for various companies before starting “I Want to Draw a Cat For You.” He is also a comedian and businessman.
How did Steve Gadlin start “I Want to Draw a Cat For You”?
Steve Gadlin started “I Want to Draw a Cat For You” as an experiment to see if he could run a successful online business with a random idea. He launched the website in 2011.
Did “I Want to Draw a Cat For You” face any challenges?
Yes, “I Want to Draw a Cat For You” faced challenges in getting enough orders initially.
What happened after “I Want to Draw a Cat For You” appeared on Shark Tank?
After appearing on Shark Tank and securing a deal with Mark Cuban, “I Want to Draw a Cat For You” experienced a significant increase in website traffic and order numbers.
Why did “I Want to Draw a Cat For You” close down?
“I Want to Draw a Cat For You” closed down due to factors such as the investor’s stake and profit margins.
Did Steve Gadlin reopen “I Want to Draw a Cat For You”?
Yes, Steve Gadlin reopened “I Want to Draw a Cat For You” and is currently taking new orders.
Is “I Want to Draw a Cat For You” still in business?
Yes, “I Want to Draw a Cat For You” is still in business and has sold over 400 cat drawings since reopening.
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