A Young businessman has launched his first product this holiday season and it just made bath time a little easier! 

Six year old, Kai Markelz of Muncie, Indiana launched his first business this holiday season after clinching 1st place alongside his mother in the Innovation Connector’s BIG Idea Pitch. 

Kai was bothered by the water and soap that would get in his eyes during bath. Several months ago, Kai suggested to his parents that strapless goggles designed like animals would solve this problem and be fun for kids! The family designed a prototype and prepared for the BIG Idea Pitch, which ultimately gave the jumpstart to move Kai’s idea forward.

Just before Thanksgiving, the Markelz family decided to move quickly to make Oggles available for purchase. They set a goal to sell 100 pairs by Christmas. They received in-kind marketing and branding support as part of their BIG Idea Pitch prize package, set-up an online store, and got the word out through social media. It was a full family project with Kai and his younger sister, Tiana, featured in homemade commercials and their parent (Andy and Lindsey) working on design and assembly.  

“We wanted to get the product out before the holidays, as a preliminary market test. Most of the early orders were from family and friends who had seen Kai’s pitch, but it didn’t take long to see other orders coming in. We made modifications along the way – like adding new designs and a local delivery option. The process was encouraging and we’re excited to work through next steps,” shared Lindsey Markelz.

On December 18th, the Markelz family reached their goal of selling 100 Oggles. At Kai’s request, the family picked up ice cream sundaes from Culvers to celebrate.

Oggles are available for purchase at MyOggles.MyShopify.com

Tiana’s commercial – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=85zp9xEt6gE

Kai’s winning pitch –  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RwYZIeHQCMU 

Social Media:

Facebook – Oggles

Instatgram – MyOggles

Pinterest – MyOggles