Image Credit, Ryan Knight and CBC
Ryan Knight, the visionary CEO of Detailing Knights, made waves recently on CBC’s Dragons’ Den, the popular investment show where entrepreneurs pitch their business ideas to some of Canada’s most successful business moguls. Representing Brampton’s leading mobile auto detailing and car cleaning service, Knight stepped onto the stage seeking a $150,000 investment for 18% of his company, valuing it at $830,000.
Detailing Knights is not just your average auto detailing company. It is a social enterprise with a mission to provide top-quality, eco-friendly car cleaning services across North America, with a goal to expand globally. The company prides itself on using gentle, environmentally friendly products that deliver excellent results without harming the planet. This commitment to quality and sustainability has made Detailing Knights Brampton’s number one provider for mobile auto detailing.
Knight’s pitch captivated the Dragons with its combination of business acumen and social responsibility. Brian Scudamore, the founder of the highly successful 1-800-GOT-JUNK? franchise and a new Dragon on the show, was particularly impressed. With an impressive track record in franchising, Scudamore is filling the shoes of Jim Treliving, the former Dragon known for his extensive franchise empire, including Boston Pizza and Mr. Lube.
After some intense negotiation, Scudamore offered Knight exactly the amount he was seeking—$150,000—but for a 25% stake in the business, slightly more equity than Knight initially proposed. This investment is a game-changer for Detailing Knights, providing the capital needed to scale rapidly while leveraging Scudamore’s vast customer base and franchising expertise.
Securing a deal on Dragons’ Den is no small feat, and for Knight, it is a significant milestone. As the Executive Director of the Afro-Caribbean Business Network, Knight has been a staunch advocate for supporting Black entrepreneurs and fostering business excellence within the community. His success on the show is not only a personal victory but also a testament to his relentless dedication to empowering others.
This moment marks a proud achievement for Knight, who has tirelessly led by example, proving that with perseverance and strategic thinking, success is attainable. By securing a deal with one of Canada’s most successful franchise moguls, Knight has not only secured a brighter future for Detailing Knights but has also shown aspiring entrepreneurs that it is possible to enter the Dragons’ Den and emerge victorious.
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