Founder Editor Team
In the dynamic world of entrepreneurship, success often comes from determination, innovation, and resilience. Rize, a Gurgaon-based premium direct-to-consumer (D2C) brand, embodies these qualities as it charts a remarkable journey from a rejected Shark Tank pitch to earning the backing of renowned personality Sunny Leone. Led by 21-year-old entrepreneurs Dhruv Verma and Sahil Manrala, Rize has emerged as a thriving brand in the healthy snack industry, projecting impressive revenue growth in the coming fiscal year.
The inception of Rize dates back to 2024 when Dhruv Verma and Sahil Manrala, fueled by their passion for fitness and entrepreneurship, identified a market need for healthy and tasty energy bars infused with caffeine. With Sahil’s culinary background and Dhruv’s expertise in real estate, the duo embarked on a mission to create a brand that resonates with health-conscious consumers seeking delicious yet nutritious snack options.
Despite facing initial setbacks, including a rejection on Shark Tank, Dhruv and Sahil remained undeterred in their pursuit of turning their vision into reality. They invested approximately Rs 2,000 in research and development, meticulously studying how energy bars were made and identifying potential suppliers. Their perseverance paid off when they convinced a manufacturer to produce their energy bars, kicking off production with a modest Rs. 10 lakh funding from their parents.
Reflecting on their journey, Dhruv acknowledged the challenges they faced in finding a manufacturer within their budget constraints. However, their resourcefulness and determination enabled them to overcome obstacles and launch Rize as a premium brand offering high-quality energy bars and chocolates free from added sugar and preservatives – a testament to their commitment to health and wellness.
The pivotal moment for Rize came with Sunny Leone’s endorsement and backing, catapulting the brand into the spotlight and opening doors to wider recognition and market reach. Sunny Leone’s support not only validated Rize’s product offerings but also brought credibility and visibility to the brand, attracting a growing base of health-conscious consumers eager to embrace Rize’s nutritious and delicious snacks.
As Rize looks ahead to the future, the founders are optimistic about the brand’s growth trajectory, projecting Rs 1.5 crore in revenue for the fiscal year 2025. With a focus on product quality, customer satisfaction, and continuous innovation, Rize is poised to become a leading player in the healthy snack market, inspiring other young entrepreneurs to pursue their dreams and defy the odds in the competitive business landscape.
In conclusion, Rize’s journey from a rejected Shark Tank pitch to earning Sunny Leone’s endorsement exemplifies the resilience, creativity, and entrepreneurial spirit that define success in the startup ecosystem. Dhruv Verma and Sahil Manrala’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance, innovation, and seizing opportunities to turn challenges into triumphs, setting a shining example for aspiring entrepreneurs worldwide.
