KANSAS CITY, Mo. — A Lee's Summit mother is hoping her invention will catch the eye of Shark Tank producers.
Emily Crawford pitched her 'Lavelu Lounger' to producers at the Gem Theater Friday.
"I've wanted to do this for many years, and I'm so excited to be here," Crawford said.
Crawford got the inspiration for her product from her daughter.
She was frustrated with bathing her daughter in the sink because despite trying multiple brands of sink inserts, she couldn't find one she felt supported her daughter adequately.
"Her neck wasn't supported, she would end up slumping down and being down at the bottom of the container," Crawford said.
Crawford created the 'Lavelu Lounger,' which she describes as a waterproof, anti-slip support cushion, that she says is a much safer option for babies.
"It's the only fully supportive sink bath insert on the market," Crawford said. "You can have a hands-free option where the baby sits comfortably in there and you can wash with both hands."
The Economic Development Corporation of Kansas City and Opportunity Hub hosted the Shark Tank casting call Friday. Hundreds of hopefuls showed up for their chance to impress the show's producers.
Co-founder of Highline Partners Brett Posten said nearly 300 entrepreneurs came out and had a chance to practice their pitch in front of each other before going in front of the producers.
"Kansas City has really become a hub of entrepreneurial activity, and sometimes you just need a break, sometimes you need to be in front of the right person at the right moment with the right idea," Posten said.
Crawford hopes her idea is enough to push her through to the next round. While the business prospects are exciting, she said it's really all about helping parents and babies.
"Four million babies a year are born in the United States alone, and every single one of those parents or caregivers of those children need this product," Crawford said.
Crawford and others who pitched their ideas should find out if they move onto the next round of Shark Tank in two weeks.
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