From UConn to Shark Tank: Hayley Segar's Journey as a Swimwear Entrepreneur

Summary:

Hayley Segar, a UConn alum, will pitch her swimwear brand onewith on Shark Tank on January 24.
Segar prepared extensively for her pitch, feeling both nervous and excited.
Her company was supported by UConn’s CCEI, leading to a $15,000 startup fund.
She aims to find a strategic partner on Shark Tank to scale her business.
Segar credits her grandfather for inspiring her to pursue this opportunity.

Women’s swimsuit entrepreneur and UConn alum Hayley Segar ’17 (CLAS) is set to make waves on Shark Tank this Friday, January 24, at 8 p.m. on ABC, reaching nearly 3 million viewers. Segar's company, onewith, was born from her experiences and support from UConn's entrepreneurship programs.

The Nerve-Wracking Pitch

Segar, who has pitched her swimwear company multiple times, describes her experience on Shark Tank as the most nerve-wracking moment of her life. In preparation, she memorized sales facts and practiced answers to potential questions. However, once she faced the business moguls, her nervousness faded, and she focused on delivering her pitch effectively.

UConn’s CCEI: Launching Her Dream

Graduating with a degree in English Language and Literature, Segar always dreamt of starting her own company. The idea for onewith emerged after a frustrating search for flattering swimsuits on a vacation. With guidance from Mary Kay Della Camera, a business adviser from the Connecticut Small Business Development Center, Segar explored UConn’s entrepreneurship programs and earned a spot in the 2020 Summer Fellowship Accelerator, receiving $15,000 in startup funding.

The Role of Mentorship

Segar credits her mentors for their invaluable support, helping her navigate everything from marketing to legal advice. Her unique designs reflect her New England roots and are sold directly to consumers online. Even though she’s the sole full-time employee, her mother assists by packing orders.

Aiming for Strategic Growth

Applying directly to Shark Tank, Segar seeks a strategic partnership to help scale her business. As she prepares for summer sales, the first quarter of the year is particularly busy for onewith. In the past year, her company has gained attention from People and InStyle magazines, and she has plans to sell 50,000 units in 2024.

Mentoring Aspiring Entrepreneurs

Since her journey began, Segar has returned to UConn to mentor aspiring entrepreneurs, encouraging them to stay focused in the early stages of their ventures. She emphasizes the importance of hard work and dedication in achieving success.

A Family Legacy

Segar’s grandfather inspired her to consider appearing on Shark Tank, believing in her potential as an entrepreneur. The recent pitch is not just a career milestone, but a tribute to her grandfather’s dream for her.

Haley Segar with her swimwear line Segar with one of the pieces in her swimwear line (Courtesy of Haley Segar)

Shark Tank Cast ABC’s “Shark Tank” stars Kevin O’Leary, Barbara Corcoran, Mark Cuban, Daymond John, Lori Greiner, Robert Herjavec. (ABC/Richard Middlesworth)