You probably have done all of this but here: To help
@jopawo
(Florida Jon) get his BioNotice invention off the ground, he should focus on targeted outreach beyond Shark Tank. His idea is a patent-pending (or applied-for) temporary lawn/yard sign (called BioNotice) made from biodegradable material that fully dissolves/disintegrates safely after a few days of rain or exposure. It's designed to reduce plastic waste from real estate signs, political signs, event markers, etc., while being non-toxic to grass, soil, pets, and pollinators.
@jopawo
Key Contacts and StepsHere's a practical roadmap:Manufacturers & Suppliers (He's Already Emailing These – Double Down) Reach out to companies specializing in biodegradable plastics, compostable materials, or eco-friendly signage. Examples: Novamont, NatureWorks (PLA-based materials), or US-based firms doing sustainable packaging/signage.
Search for "biodegradable yard sign manufacturers" or contact custom sign printers open to new materials (e.g., via ThomasNet or Alibaba for prototypes).
Prototype help: Local makerspaces, 3D printing services, or laser engraving shops for initial tests.
Investors & Funding Alternatives to Shark Tank Angel investors and eco-focused VCs: Platforms like AngelList, Gust, or SeedInvest. Look for green tech/sustainability investors.
Crowdfunding: Kickstarter or Indiegogo – great for consumer-facing eco-products. Prep a strong video demo (he already has prototype tests).
Grants: Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) grants, EPA or USDA sustainability programs, or state-level Florida innovation grants for veterans/small businesses.
Other TV/ Pitch Opportunities: Dragon's Den (international), local pitch events, or shows like "All-American Makers." Contact production companies directly for similar formats.
Business & Legal Support Patent/USPTO: Follow up on his application. Use services like LegalZoom, or consult a patent attorney specializing in green tech (via USPTO's pro bono program for veterans).
Small Business Development Centers (SBDC): Free advising through
SCORE.org or Florida SBDC – they help with business plans, manufacturing intros, and marketing.
Veteran Resources: VA's Veteran Entrepreneur Program, or Boots to Business for vets.
Marketing & Distribution Partners Target Customers: Real estate agents/associations (NAR), political campaigns, event planners. Pitch bulk orders to reduce per-unit cost.
Eco-Retailers: Partner with stores like Whole Foods, Home Depot's eco-lines, or online green marketplaces (Etsy for starters, then Amazon).
Influencers/PR: Eco-bloggers, sustainability YouTubers, or veteran entrepreneur networks. Share his prototype video widely.
Direct Outreach Ideas Kevin O'Leary or Shark Tank team: Even without the form, tweet/DM
@kevinolearytv
or
@ABCSharkTank
again – or email via their public channels (many entrepreneurs bypass the portal).
Mark Cuban or other sharks via their sites (Cuban invests in tech/sustainable ideas sometimes).
Elon Musk / xAI angle: Since he's active on X, tag relevant accounts or post demos – eco-innovation fits broader sustainability talks.
Practical Next Steps for Him: Polish a one-page pitch deck or short video.
Build a simple website (he mentioned securing domains).
Network at veteran/small biz events in Florida.
Price it competitively (he noted ~15-20% premium initially).
This is a solid eco-friendly concept with real waste-reduction appeal. Persistence with manufacturers crowdfunding could get early traction without compromising principles. If he shares more details publicly, the X community might help amplify. Good luck to him!