UConn Grad Hayley Segar Shines on 'Shark Tank' and Secures Major Investment

UConn alum and swimsuit entrepreneur Hayley Segar ’17 (CLAS) wowed the judges on ABC’s “Shark Tank,” securing a deal with two prominent investors. Despite nerves before the taping, Segar confidently presented her startup, onewith, which focuses on creating seamless swimwear that prioritizes comfort.

Veteran investor Barbara Corcoran and newcomer Jamie Kern Lima offered Segar $200,000 for a 20% stake in her company, which has already sold $2.3 million in products since its launch in late 2021. After the episode aired, 20,000 visitors flocked to the swimsuit website.

A Celebration of Success

Segar hosted a celebratory party for over 100 friends, family, and mentors at the Maritime Aquarium in Norwalk, featuring live sharks and a festive atmosphere. Reflecting on her experience, she expressed that being successful on “Shark Tank” is incredibly validating and a dream come true.

The Journey of an Entrepreneur

Segar reminded her guests that the journey of entrepreneurship involves much more than just appearances on television. She shared insights into the sacrifices and hard work required to build a business, highlighting a moment when Kevin O’Leary, a notorious critic on the show, praised her pitch as the best he had seen in years.

UConn’s Impact on Her Journey

The idea for onewith emerged after Segar struggled to find a flattering swimsuit for a Miami vacation. Her journey began at UConn, where she participated in the Connecticut Center for Entrepreneurship & Innovation’s Summer Fellowship Accelerator, receiving mentorship and funding that helped her launch her business.

Looking Ahead

Segar, who dreams of being a serial entrepreneur, credits her family for their support and guidance throughout her journey. She expressed excitement about the future, stating, "I can’t not build things, it’s so fun for me.”