Nadia and Lola’s story…
When I was asked to take part in Dragons’ Den I was excited as no matter the outcome, WagIt would get amazing exposure. Little did I know what dealing with that would cost me.
I started WagIt in June 2020 during the lockdown. I had just been made redundant and finding a job at that time was very tricky so I started my own business. WagIt is a website to discover and book dog-friendly venus and services. During the lockdown, it was tricky to sign up venues so we concentrated on building the brand. With a healthy audience growth, we managed to secure an investment in March 2021.
It was at that time that the BBC approached me to go on Dragons’ Den. I was hesitant because the company was so young, but given the circumstances, I thought it would be great exposure for the brand.
Then followed 4 months of tough due diligence. Every centimetre of my life and business was analysed. And finally….I was in!
The hard work I had put into preparing made the idea even more justifiable…and sellable!. I had studied the market, the numbers, the audience…prepped for months so I knew this business had legs, four in fact!
The pitch went well but the Dragons didn’t invest. They liked the idea but had some concerns. I walked out a little disheartened but determined to continue building the business.
I addressed the concerns the Dragons raised and I built a stronger product. Albeit things were going slow.
When the show aired things rocketed. The website received 34,000 hits on the night and my followers, both consumers and business, tripled in size overnight.
I spent one whole month trying to reply to emails, list new venues, manage bookings and so on. The Den has brought us so much exposure that now I need to employ people to help me but don’t have the money! A double-edged sword…
It’s like I won a Porsche but didn’t have money to fill it with petrol!
I have 100’s of messages like this…
Lynne:
Good luck!!
We don’t have a dog but seen you on dragons den and wish you all the best x
Nigel:
The best of luck, brilliant concept, after seeing this tonight on DD its going to succeed without their investment. Just look at it to bring your business to the attention of the public.
Anita:
Loved your pitch on Dragons Den. As a dog owner, I would love a website to search for dog-friendly restaurants and pubs. Please don’t give up.
Christina
Just saw u on dragons den, wow what an amazing idea. I live in Wallasey Ch45 . I hope u keep going I would love to use ur app. I hate popping into everywhere asking if they’re dog friendly. Take care
Including this from Andrew:
Just watching you on Dragon’s den.
On your search engine, why on earth haven’t you labelled the search button as “FETCH” ?
So Lola, and WagIt, are still looking to match with a Dragon…
