UPDATE: Georgia Tech alumnus, Cheng Kue, co-founder of The HYPE Co., recently showcased his innovative custom slide footwear on Shark Tank and secured a significant investment from Barbara Corcoran. During the episode, Kue and his business partner presented their unique product, which features easily interchangeable straps, aiming to revolutionize the footwear industry. Barbara Corcoran was impressed with the product and the team's vision, offering $100,000 in cash along with a $250,000 line of credit for a 25% equity stake in the company. This investment will enable The HYPE Co. to expand its operations and reach new markets, solidifying its place in the competitive footwear landscape. The Georgia Tech community is proud of Cheng Kue's achievements and looks forward to the company's future successes.

Cheng Kue, the founder of The HYPE Company and a Georgia Tech Industrial Design Alumnus, is set to make an appearance on an upcoming episode of ABC’s Shark Tank season 15.

Graduating from the School of Industrial Design in 2002, Cheng received the student merit award. With over 22 years of experience in the footwear industry, he has garnered numerous industry design awards and has sold over 35 million pairs of shoes for brands such as Fila, Adidas, Crocs, Keen, and People Footwear.

Established five years ago, The HYPE Company was conceived with the vision of catering to superfans' expectations. Amidst the challenges posed by COVID, Cheng innovated a manufacturing process that separates the upper from the bottom, streamlining dependency on suppliers and factories, thus enabling timely shipments upon completion of parts. Components are then customized and assembled in the USA.

"This is the first time creating custom shoes is as simple as creating a custom shirt or hat," remarks Cheng Kue, founder of The HYPE Company.

Moreover, this process is significantly more sustainable, boasting a manufacturing process that is approximately 98% waste-free, with future midsoles intended to be made from plant-based EVA materials. This innovative approach offers consumers the flexibility of having a single base with multiple interchangeable straps to reflect their personal HYPE.

"We believe in building your HYPE and sought to create an experience that embodies that," adds Cheng.

The opportunity to present on Shark Tank will provide the company with increased visibility, demonstrating that customization doesn't have to be complex or unsustainable.

Don't miss Cheng Kue representing Georgia Tech on ABC's Shark Tank, airing Friday, April 19th, at 8 PM EST.