The Bahamas National Trust (BNT) walked away with the $50,000 prize after pitching its shark conservation efforts on last night’s episode of Shark Tank.
The BNT was selected as one of three non-profit organizations to be paired with one of the Discovery Channel show’s ‘sharks’ for the event.
Representing the BNT on the show was marine biologist Luke Tipple. Tipple was paired with FUBU tycoon Daymond John, who matched Shark Tank’s initial investment, gifting the BNT with another $50,000.
The money will be used by the BNT to further research on the importance of shark conservation, along with further promoting the tourism aspect of shark conservation as The Bahamas is the number one destination for tourist to dive with the animals in the world, according to the BNT.
Director of Science and Policy for the BNT Shelley Cant-Woodside told Eyewitness News yesterday, why the organisation decided to take the dive and expressed her excitement on its win.
“The Bahamas is a small country that is doing big things in terms of conservation,” she said.
“Through extensive education and outreach, working with PEW Charitable Trusts, the BNT was able to work with The Bahamas Government to declare The Bahamas a shark sanctuary in 2011. We were excited to be selected and recognized for our work, but to be selected as the most deserving conservation organization is amazing.”
