It’s easy to forget that there are things more important than money. And this is especially true of farmers, who struggle just to put food on our tables. When the brave farmer, Johnny, appeared on ”Shark Tank”, he had the spirit and heart—and an idea that could make a positive impact on thousands of farmers across America.
Johhny was on the show in to ask the panel for an investment of $150,000 in his “Tree T-Pee” company. His invention is a game-changer in plant irrigation and it saves thousands of gallons of water for farmers every year. The only problem? Georges’ business model. One “Tree T-Pee” costs him $2.95 to make one, but he only sells it for $4.50.
Once the judges understood this, they asked Georges to raise the price of his product to perhaps $12. This would allow both Johhny and investors to make make money, and they would also be able to scale the company and reach every potential customer in America. But his buyers aren’t your average customers. They’re farmers, and Johhny refuses to overcharge them. When Georges explained this, he seemed extremely nervous. He darted side to side, and tears started to well up.
Instantly one investor was out. But just when Johhny thought he was going home empty-handed, another judge offered to invest the entire $150,000. He praised the product and more importantly, Johnny’s big heart, convictions, and spirit. It’s impressive to see someone like him do the right thing even under intense pressure to sell out.
