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Shark Tank Spotlight
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Card.io, a gamified fitness app, gained national attention after its appearance on Season 16 of Shark Tank. Founded by Destin George-Bell, the app transforms routine cardio workouts into engaging, competitive experiences.
Destin George-Bell, a University of Kentucky graduate, conceptualized Card.io to address the monotony often associated with cardio exercises. Drawing from his athletic background, Bell aimed to create an app that not only tracks workouts but also adds a layer of competition and community engagement. After relocating to Austin in 2020, he collaborated with co-founders Max Miranda and Nirav Patel to bring Card.io to life.
Card.io is a gamified fitness app, which sought to revolutionize cardio workouts by transforming them into interactive, competitive experiences. Entrepreneur Destin George-Bell sought $150,000 for 5% equity.
Destin secured a deal with Rashaun Williams and Daymond John for $150,000 for 15% equity.
Rashaun Williams and Daymond John |
Accepted offer of $150,000 for 15% equity |
Lori Greiner |
No offer |
Kevin O’Leary |
No offer |
Mark Cuban |
No offer |
In October 2024, Bell pitched Card.io on Shark Tank, seeking $150,000 for a 5% equity stake. The app’s unique approach to fitness intrigued guest shark Rashaun Williams and Daymond John, leading to a deal of $150,000 for 15% equity. Post-show, Card.io experienced a surge in user interest and expanded its reach through social media campaigns and an Android waitlist.
Season and Episode |
Season 16, Episode 1 |
Air Date |
October 18, 2024 |
Entrepreneurs |
Destin George-Bell |
Product |
Card.io is a gamified fitness app, which sought to revolutionize cardio workouts by transforming them into interactive, competitive experiences. |
Investment Sought |
$150,000 |
Equity Offered |
5% |
Valuation |
$3 million |
Initial Sales |
Monthly Revenue: $4,000. Users: 22,000 across 70 countries. User Retention: 34% after 30 days |
Retail Plans |
Card.io plans on using the investment to grow their user base, build partnerships, and scale globally |
Final Deal |
Rashaun Williams and Daymond John offered $150,000 for 15% equity, which was accepted. |
*After the filming of a Shark Tank episode, investments are subject to thorough audits and evaluations. During this time period, the terms of the investment can be altered or canceled by either party. As a result, the deals presented on the show may not always come to fruition for various reasons. This site does not guarantee the accuracy of any final investment figures.
Gamified Workouts
Card.io introduces “turf wars,” where users claim virtual territories by running or walking in specific areas. This feature fosters a sense of competition and encourages users to explore their surroundings.
Community Engagement
The app emphasizes social interaction, allowing users to form teams, participate in challenges, and communicate through in-app messaging. Features like “ghost mode” offer privacy while maintaining competitive elements.
Integration and Accessibility
Card.io seamlessly integrates with platforms like Strava, Garmin, and Apple Health, ensuring users can consolidate their fitness data. While initially available only on iOS, the team has been working on expanding to Android devices.
Operating on a freemium model, Card.io offers basic features for free, with a $25 monthly subscription unlocking premium tools for run clubs and teams. As of late 2024, the app had garnered approximately 22,000 users across 70 countries, with a 34% retention rate after 30 days. Monthly revenues hovered around $4,000, primarily from premium subscriptions.
Card.io has collaborated with notable organizations, including the Austin and Cleveland Marathons and the Road Runners Club of America. In a philanthropic endeavor, the app partnered with The Trail Conservancy to launch a one-million-mile challenge, aiming to raise $1 million for Austin’s Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail. Participants contribute $1 per mile, with the Bill Wood Foundation matching donations up to $420,000.
Card.io’s innovative approach to fitness, combining technology, competition, and community, has carved a niche in the crowded fitness app market. As it continues to evolve, the app holds promise for those seeking a more engaging and interactive workout experience.
Card.io is a fitness app that gamifies cardio workouts by turning them into competitive turf wars, where users claim virtual territories through running or walking.
The app was founded by Destin George-Bell, who appeared on Shark Tank Season 16 to pitch the product.
Destin secured a $150,000 investment for 15% equity from Rashaun Williams and Daymond John.
As of the latest update, Card.io has approximately 22,000 users across 70 countries.
While initially available only on iOS, the team has introduced an Android waitlist to expand its user base.
