In Season 9 of the popular TV show “Shark Tank,” Akshita Iyer and Ranjith Babu made a memorable appearance. They showcased their innovative product, Inirv, a smart stove knob system designed to enhance kitchen safety. This unique system was equipped with gas, smoke, and motion detectors. If the system detected unattended cooking, smoke, or gas, it automatically turned off the stove, potentially preventing kitchen disasters.
Seeking an $800,000 investment for an 8% stake in their company, the founders impressed the Sharks with their innovative technology. However, the high valuation raised eyebrows. Only Robert Herjavec stepped forward with an offer. He proposed $800,000 for 20% equity in Inirv. Yet, the founders believed in the value of their creation and declined the offer, choosing to leave without a deal.
Challenges Faced Post-Shark Tank
The journey post-“Shark Tank” wasn’t smooth sailing for Inirv. Legal troubles with their prototype manufacturer, Enventys, quickly emerged. In 2018, Enventys sued Inirv for unpaid services. In response, Inirv countersued, alleging that the prototypes were defective. After much back and forth, the dispute was amicably settled within the same year.
In parallel, Inirv turned to crowdfunding to fuel its production. Through Kickstarter and IndieGoGo, they successfully raised over $430,000. However, delivering on these campaigns proved challenging. The company faced significant production delays, further aggravated by the COVID-19 pandemic. The global chip shortage added another layer of complexity, making it hard for Inirv to meet the expectations of their backers.
Rebranding to Ome
In June 2021, a pivotal transformation unfolded for Inirv as they rebranded, ushering in a refreshed identity under the new name, Ome. This change was driven by the need to better reflect their brand vision and ethos. The founders chose “Ome,” inspired by the Sanskrit symbol “Om,” which represents tranquility and peace.
This rebranding wasn’t just a change in name; it was a shift in their entire company outlook. The company embraced this new identity, positioning themselves for renewed focus and direction. With a clearer brand narrative, Ome sought to reconnect with their audience, promising innovations in smart kitchen technology.
Current Product Offerings
Today, Ome has emerged stronger, offering advanced smart stove knobs that align with modern smart home technology. Their products are now seamlessly integrated with smartphone apps, as well as Google Home and Alexa. This makes controlling kitchen appliances more intuitive and effortless than ever before.
However, some backers from their crowdfunding campaigns have reported not receiving their promised products. Despite these hiccups, Ome continues to assure these customers of delivery, underscoring their commitment to resolving outstanding issues and ensuring satisfaction.
Financial Growth and Achievements
Ome’s perseverance post-rebranding has started to pay off. The company has reported a lifetime revenue of approximately $6.1 million. They’ve also unveiled a second-generation smart stove knob, boasting enhanced features and a variety of color options to cater to diverse kitchen aesthetics.
Ome’s ambitions extend beyond individual homes. They are delving into the AgeTech market with their Amity platform. This innovative solution is designed for remote stove management in senior living communities, promoting safety and peace of mind. Additionally, they are developing an automatic shut-off knob for outdoor grills, further expanding their product line.
To bolster their growth, Ome is actively seeking partnerships with appliance manufacturers. Such collaborations could introduce their technology to a broader audience, integrating their innovations into more kitchen and outdoor cooking appliances.
Recognition and Awards
In their journey, founders Akshita Iyer and Ranjith Babu have garnered significant recognition. Their leadership and innovation in the industry have earned them multiple accolades. They were spotlighted among Exeleon Magazine’s Top 100 Dynamic Leaders. Furthermore, the company celebrated a major accolade by winning the Smart Appliance Product of the Year in the eighth annual IoT Breakthrough Awards.
These achievements not only highlight their determination but also underscore their significant contributions to smart technology in homes and beyond. Such recognition fuels their motivation to keep innovating and improving their offerings.
Future Prospects for Ome
Looking ahead, Ome’s vision is expansive. They aim to carve a niche in the AgeTech industry, enhancing safety for senior communities. Their Amity platform represents a promising step in this direction. Coupled with their smart grill knobs, the company is well-positioned to tap into new markets and opportunities.
A significant part of Ome’s future strategy involves collaboration. They are actively pursuing partnerships with major appliance manufacturers. Such strategic alliances could integrate Ome’s cutting-edge technology into mainstream appliances, offering enhanced safety features to consumers worldwide.
For those eager to explore more about start-ups like Ome and stay updated with the latest in innovation, you can visit and learn more by clicking here.
Conclusion
The journey of Inirv, now Ome, is a testament to resilience and innovation. From their “Shark Tank” debut to overcoming challenges, the company’s evolution has been remarkable. They have redefined their brand while preserving their commitment to safety and technological advancement.
With a strong foothold in the smart kitchen appliance market, Ome continues to look forward, eager to embrace new opportunities and challenges. Their dedication to safety, innovation, and consumer satisfaction underscores their promise of bringing peace of mind to kitchens everywhere.
As Ome pioneers new frontiers, their story becomes a source of inspiration for budding innovators and entrepreneurs. Their persistence and adaptability highlight the endless possibilities in the world of smart technology.
