Let me tell you about one of the most fascinating and innovative products I’ve come across recently—Cup-A-Bug. This isn’t just another gadget; it’s a humane bug-catching device that has taken the pest control world by storm. If you’ve ever been terrified by the sight of a spider or felt guilty about killing an innocent insect, you’ll understand why this product resonated with so many people, including me.
I first learned about Cup-A-Bug when it appeared on Shark Tank during Season 15, Episode 15. The product’s simplicity and purpose immediately caught my attention. Justin Huang, the brilliant mind behind this invention, pitched his idea to the sharks in a way that was both entertaining and heartfelt. Let’s dive into the full story of Cup-A-Bug, its journey on Shark Tank, and what has happened since its memorable debut.
The Problem Cup-A-Bug Solves
We’ve all been there—standing frozen in fear as a bug scuttles across the floor or clings to the wall. For some, it’s not just fear but also guilt that makes dealing with insects so stressful. Killing bugs might seem like the easiest option, but it’s not always the most ethical or eco-friendly choice. That’s where Cup-A-Bug comes in.
Cup-A-Bug is a simple yet ingenious solution for people who want to catch and release bugs without harming them. It’s essentially a long pole with a pivoting cup mechanism that allows users to trap insects from a safe distance. Once caught, the bug can be released outdoors unharmed. It’s perfect for anyone who wants to coexist peacefully with nature while maintaining their personal comfort zone.
Meet Justin Huang: The Inventor of Cup-A-Bug
Justin Huang, the creator of Cup-A-Bug, is a mechanical engineer from Irvine, California. His background in engineering and product design is evident in the thoughtful construction of this device. But what really sets him apart is his passion for innovation and problem-solving.
Huang didn’t just stop at creating Cup-A-Bug; he also founded Solid Factory, a company dedicated to developing clever and practical products. Before Cup-A-Bug, he worked on board game accessories and other niche inventions, which gave him valuable experience in bringing ideas to life.
What inspired him to create Cup-A-Bug? Like many of us, Huang had a fear of bugs but didn’t want to harm them. He realized there was no effective tool on the market for humane bug-catching, so he decided to create one himself. And boy, did he deliver!
The Shark Tank Pitch
When Justin Huang stepped into the Shark Tank, he was seeking $50,000 in exchange for 10% equity in his company, valuing it at $500,000. His pitch was nothing short of memorable.
To grab the sharks’ attention right off the bat, Huang asked them to lift plate covers hiding fake bugs underneath. The startled reactions from the sharks set a playful tone for his presentation. He then demonstrated how Cup-A-Bug works: users place the cup over an insect, pull a lever to close the lid securely, and release the bug outside without any harm.
What made his pitch stand out wasn’t just the product itself but also Huang’s enthusiasm and creativity. He even brought along a custom-made “bug catapult” as part of his demonstration—an amusing touch that showcased his engineering skills and sense of humor.
The Deal with Mark Cuban
After explaining his product and its potential market appeal, Justin waited anxiously as the sharks deliberated. Mark Cuban quickly expressed interest in Cup-A-Bug because he could relate personally—he mentioned being the designated bug catcher in his household.
Here’s how the deal unfolded:
- Final Deal: Mark Cuban offered $75,000 for 20% equity.
- This valued Cup-A-Bug at $375,000.
- Cuban also secured rights to collaborate with Huang on future inventions under Solid Factory.
While other sharks showed interest—Daymond John even offered $60,000 for 30% equity—it was Cuban who ultimately sealed the deal. His belief in Justin’s potential as an inventor and entrepreneur was evident.
Key Details About Cup-A-Bug
Let’s take a moment to look at all the essential details about Cup-A-Bug and its journey on Shark Tank. Here’s everything you need to know:
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Product Name | Cup-A-Bug |
| Founders | Justin Huang |
| Season & Episode | Season 15, Episode 15 |
| Ask (Investment & Equity) | $50,000 for 10% |
| Final Deal | $75,000 for 20% |
| Shark(s) Involved | Mark Cuban |
| Memorable Episode Moments | Sharks startled by bug reveal; custom “bug catapult” presentation |
| Current Net Worth | Estimated at $453,450 (2024) |
| Current Business Status | Active |
| Revenue Since Shark Tank | Over $1 million in lifetime sales |
| Social Media Presence | 107K TikTok followers; 11M likes |
| Key Achievements | Kickstarter success; expanded U.S. sales |
Life After Shark Tank
The exposure from Shark Tank was a game-changer for Justin Huang and Cup-A-Bug. Almost immediately after the episode aired, sales skyrocketed. The product gained widespread attention on social media platforms like TikTok, where it resonated with younger audiences who value eco-friendly solutions.
Revenue Growth
Since appearing on Shark Tank, Cup-A-Bug has generated over $1 million in lifetime sales—a remarkable achievement for such a niche product. The initial demand was so high that managing inventory became one of Huang’s biggest challenges.
Marketing Success
TikTok played a huge role in spreading awareness about Cup-A-Bug. With over 107K followers and nearly 11 million likes on TikTok alone, Huang effectively used short videos to demonstrate how easy and fun it is to use his product.
Product Expansion
Initially launched through Kickstarter and sold via its official website, Cup-A-Bug is now also available on Amazon. This expansion has made it more accessible to customers across the United States.
Challenges
Like any growing business, Cup-A-Bug faced its share of hurdles—primarily around scaling production to meet post-Shark Tank demand. However, with Mark Cuban’s guidance and resources, Huang has been able to navigate these challenges effectively.
Where Is Cup-A-Bug Now?
As of early 2025:
- Business Status: Active
- Annual Revenue Growth: Estimated at 10%
- Product Price: $39.99 (website) / $44.99 (Amazon)
- Market Reach: Primarily U.S., with plans for international expansion
- Future Plans: Developing additional products under Solid Factory
Cup-A-Bug continues to thrive as an eco-friendly alternative in pest control. Its success has proven there’s a market for humane solutions that align with modern values of sustainability and compassion.
Lessons from Cup-A-Bug’s Success
For me—and I think many others—the story of Cup-A-Bug is incredibly inspiring. It shows how one person’s passion and ingenuity can lead to something truly impactful.
Here are some key takeaways:
- Authenticity Matters: Justin Huang created something he genuinely believed in—and that authenticity resonated with both investors and consumers.
- Leverage Social Media: Platforms like TikTok can be game-changers for small businesses looking to reach wider audiences.
- Stay Resilient: Even when faced with challenges like inventory management or scaling production, staying focused on your mission can help you overcome obstacles.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Cup-A-Bug
With Mark Cuban as an investor and mentor, I have no doubt that Justin Huang will continue innovating under Solid Factory. Whether it’s expanding internationally or developing new products altogether, the future looks bright for both him and Cup-A-Bug.
If you’re someone who values humane solutions or simply hates dealing with bugs like I do, I highly recommend checking out this product—it might just change your life!
So what do you think? Would you give Cup-A-Bug a try? Let me know!