DNA Simple is still in business after its appearance on Shark Tank in 2017. The company, founded in 2015, connects researchers with DNA donors for genetic studies and pays willing participants at least $50 for their saliva samples. DNA Simple remains active and committed to advancing medical research through its platform.
Olivier Noel appears on Season 9 of Shark Tank as he pitches DNA Simple. Photo: @pennstate on Instagram (modified by author)Source: UGC
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Key takeaways
- DNA Simple is still operating as of 2025, with an active website and ongoing donor matches.
- The Shark Tank deal with Mark Cuban did not close, but the exposure helped the company grow rapidly.
- Its unique business model pays each participant at least $50 for a DNA sample while ensuring privacy, making it a trusted partner for researchers.
DNA Simple: Shark Tank pitch and deal outcome
Founder Olivier Noel entered Shark Tank seeking $100,000 for 12.5% equity, valuing DNA Simple at $800,000. His pitch impressed the sharks, and American businessman and reality TV personality Mark Cuban offered $200,000 for a 20% stake. After a brief negotiation, the two parties agreed on $200,000 for 15% equity, thereby increasing the company’s valuation to approximately $1.33 million.
However, like some Shark Tank deals, the agreement never actually closed. Despite this, the exposure gave DNA Simple a massive boost, bringing it to the attention of researchers and potential donors across the United States.
Exponential growth after Shark Tank
DNA Simple founder Olivier Noel (L) and Mark Cuban (C) meet at a restaurant. Photo: @olivierfnoel on Instagram (modified by author)Source: UGC
The media attention following Shark Tank created a surge of interest in DNA Simple’s services. Within a month of the episode airing, the company had already surpassed its goal of 100,000 registered donors, hitting 130,000 by December 2017.
DNA Simple expanded its reach to Canada shortly after, giving researchers a larger pool of participants. The company also set an ambitious goal of reaching 1 million registered donors by the end of 2018. Although exact numbers are not publicly available, it is believed that it has had a steady growth in participation over the years.
How does DNA Simple work?
DNA Simple operates in both the United States and Canada as a matchmaking service between medical researchers and volunteers willing to share their DNA for science. The company’s website is active, allowing new users to register and join the donor pool.
When a study needs participants with certain genetic characteristics, the company identifies a match from its registry, mails out a saliva collection kit, and forwards the anonymised sample to the researcher. On an episode of season 9 of Shark Tank, Olivier Noel explained to the sharks how his company works:
Normally, it is an extremely expensive and very long process for researchers to get enough samples for studies, and our company is basically making it simple. We pay you for a spit, researchers get the samples they need, and we get paid for making it all happen. It’s a win-win for everybody.
Participants are paid at least $50 per sample, and the process preserves their privacy because DNA Simple does not sequence or permanently store genetic data. This model appeals to people who want to contribute to science without giving up control of their personal genetic information.
How much is DNA Simple worth?
DNA Simple founder Olivier Noel poses for a photo at a laboratory. Photo: @queenscollegeofficial on Instagram (modified by author)Source: UGC
According to a publication by Geeks Around Globe, DNA Simple’s net worth as of 2023 was allegedly $1.3 million. Currently, the company’s exact net worth is not publicly known, as it is a private company and therefore does not publish its financial reports. However, its reported annual revenue is approximately $5 million, with researchers typically paying $155 per donor sample.
What is DNA Simple?
DNA Simple is a platform that connects individuals willing to share their DNA with researchers conducting genetic studies. Participants provide a saliva sample and receive compensation, typically at least $50. The company helps accelerate medical research by making genetic data more accessible.
Who is the owner of DNA Simple?
DNA Simple was founded by Olivier Noel, who also serves as the company’s CEO. He studied medical courses at Queens College, Temple University, Pennsylvania State University, and Yale School of Medicine. His background in biochemistry and genetics inspired the business idea.
What year was DNA Simple on Shark Tank?
DNA Simple founder Olivier Noel enjoys a moment with five-year-old kids. Photo: @olivierfnoel on Instagram (modified by author)Source: UGC
DNA Simple appeared on Shark Tank in 2017 during Season 9. The episode helped introduce the company to a wider audience and boost its credibility. The pitch received interest from investors and contributed to the company’s growth.
How did DNA Simple do after Shark Tank?
DNA Simple experienced a boost in visibility and participation after appearing on Shark Tank, which helped the company grow its user base and attract more researchers interested in genetic data. It continues to operate successfully and fulfil its mission of connecting participants with research studies.
How much is DNA Simple’s revenue?
DNA Simple does not publicly disclose its exact revenue figures. However, a 2023 publication alleged that the company has an annual revenue of approximately $5 million.
Is DNA Simple legit?
DNA Simple is a legitimate company. It has been featured on Shark Tank, covered by reputable media outlets, and has paid participants for their DNA samples. The company follows ethical guidelines to protect participant privacy.
Nearly eight years after it featured on Shark Tank, DNA Simple still operates, connecting researchers with DNA donors and driving innovation in genetics and medical studies. Its commitment to privacy and participant compensation keeps it relevant in an era where data ownership and ethical research practices are more important than ever.
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Proofreading by Kola Muhammed, copy editor at TheTalk.NG.
Source: TheTalk.NG
