As trade tensions escalated during Donald Trump’s presidency, many small businesses found themselves navigating new tariffs and supply chain disruptions. Among them were several Shark Tank alumni who unexpectedly became foot soldiers in America’s trade war.

The Trump administration’s trade policies, especially those targeting China, had far-reaching effects across U.S. industries. For startups and small businesses—often with lean margins and overseas manufacturing dependencies—the impacts were swift and disruptive. Several companies that gained national attention on Shark Tank were hit especially hard.

Here are 10 Shark Tank companies that found themselves on the front lines of Trump’s trade war:

1. Bombas

Known for their comfortable socks and social mission, Bombas relied heavily on Chinese suppliers. When tariffs increased costs on textile imports, they were forced to reevaluate sourcing strategies, raising prices to maintain margins.

2. Ring

Before being acquired by Amazon, Ring—a home security company—struggled with increased tariffs on electronics and components from China. The price pressure forced tighter budgeting and delayed product rollouts.

3. LuminAID

Creators of solar-powered lanterns used for disaster relief and camping, LuminAID experienced cost spikes on LED components and batteries sourced from China. Co-founders Anna Stork and Andrea Sreshta publicly advocated for tariff exemptions.

4. Wicked Good Cupcakes

This gourmet cupcake-in-a-jar company saw increased packaging costs due to tariffs on tin and aluminum lids sourced overseas. They had to absorb some of the costs to remain competitive in retail.

5. The Comfy

The makers of the oversized wearable blanket saw spikes in raw material prices and freight costs, particularly for polyester fleece fabrics from China. Supply chain uncertainties disrupted holiday inventory plans.

6. Mission Belt

This no-holes, click-buckle belt brand faced rising costs for imported leather and metal parts. The founders shifted some production to Latin America but acknowledged the learning curve of navigating new suppliers.

7. Sleep Styler

Tara Brown’s heat-free hair curler became a viral hit. But after Trump’s tariffs hit foam and microfiber materials, production costs increased. Brown considered moving manufacturing to Vietnam to offset expenses.

8. Pipcorn

Pipcorn, the mini-popcorn snack featured on Shark Tank, sources packaging and some ingredients abroad. Increased import costs and shipping delays affected their ability to fulfill wholesale orders on time.

9. Tipsy Elves

Known for their wild holiday sweaters and party apparel, Tipsy Elves saw tariffs drive up costs on novelty fabrics and accessories. Despite a loyal customer base, they were forced to reduce seasonal collections.

10. Squatty Potty

The bathroom stool that became a viral sensation had its plastic molds made in China. Tariffs hit hard, prompting the company to relocate production domestically at higher base costs but more stable logistics.

Trade War Fallout

While large corporations had resources to weather the storm, these Shark Tank startups were particularly vulnerable. Many had to rethink supply chains, raise prices, or absorb losses. Some even pivoted to new production hubs in Southeast Asia or North America.

The Silver Lining

Though painful, the trade war pushed many small companies to become more resilient. As the post-pandemic economy reshapes global sourcing, the lessons these entrepreneurs learned on the trade front could offer a competitive edge moving forward.

Published: 1st May 2025

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