LAKE CHARLES, La. (KPLC) – The reality series “Shark Tank” has helped people launch businesses around the world. In Southwest Louisiana, Gator Tank is giving local entrepreneurs a chance to win $2,500 to invest in their small businesses.
Gabriel Fontenot, winner of this year’s Gator Tank Contest, displayed insect repellent from his private business, HuntTech, to the judges.
“I found the opportunity online. I saw that I applied and I was so happy that I got it,” Fontenot said.
Fontenot, an Elton native, has been working on the product for about a year using the business incubator at the McNeese SEED Center. Fontenot was inspired to create this product because hunting and insects were always a problem for his family in southwestern Louisiana.
“It feels great to win the Gator Tank. This is what we do best in Lake Charles, and the Gator Tank is a great way to start moving forward. There was some tough competition, but we were able to win. I’m very happy,” Fontenot said.
Lake Charles officials said the city is happy to provide the platform to small businesses.
“In the end, Hunt Tech won and Gabriel Fontenot’s presentation was just perfect. He knows his product well and is confident that this mosquito repellent will change the way we use and think about insect repellents. I truly believe that,” said Kimberly Delafosse, Lake Charles Deputy City Manager.
The City of Lake Charles will host this event next year as part of LC Launch Small Business Week and encourage people to participate.
“Small business is in my blood, and I want to see other small business owners take advantage of this opportunity to grow. Through Mayor Hunter’s vision and commitment, we will We’re focused on what we can do as a city to help,” Delafosse said.
Hunt Tech is expected to fully launch in January 2025.
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