Biography of Ehime Eigbe: Founder & CEO of Sweetkiwi -Entrepreneur
Biography of Ehime Eigbe:
Sweet Beginning
Ehime Eigbe, a Nigerian-born entrepreneur, wanted to find a
healthier dessert alternative that didn’t compromise on taste. What started as
an experiment in her kitchen led to the creation of a million-dollar
idea—Sweetkiwi. Her vision was to craft a nutritious, delicious frozen Greek
yogurt that would balance indulgence and wellness, offering a guilt-free treat
for health-conscious consumers.
From Idea to Business
In 2011, Eigbe officially launched Sweetkiwi as an artisan
creamery, focusing on high-quality ingredients and a nutrient-packed formula.
She sourced real milk from smallholder family-owned farms and enriched her
frozen yogurt with 22 grams of protein, probiotics, prebiotic fiber, and
superfoods that boost immunity. Her innovative approach quickly caught
attention in Nigeria and beyond.
Expanding into the U.S. Market
Eigbe relocated to the United States and continued to scale
Sweetkiwi. The brand secured placement in over 2,000 retail stores, including
major chains like Whole Foods, Walmart, and Kroger. Despite the competitive
frozen dessert industry, Sweetkiwi carved a niche by offering a healthier
alternative with less sugar and more nutritional benefits.
The Shark Tank Opportunity
In 2023, Eigbe and her husband, Michael Akindele, pitched
Sweetkiwi on Shark Tank USA, hoping to secure funding for brand-building and
marketing. They initially sought a $250,000 investment in exchange for 5%
equity. Their pitch highlighted Sweetkiwi’s unique value proposition—delicious
frozen yogurt that also supports gut health.
Sharks Take Notice
Kevin O’Leary, impressed by their ability to get Sweetkiwi
into major retailers, offered $250,000 for a 20% stake. However, the couple
aimed for a better deal. When they attempted to negotiate with other Sharks,
O’Leary withdrew his offer. While some Sharks stepped back, Robert Herjavec
remained interested.
Landing the Deal
Herjavec, inspired by their passion and business acumen,
offered $250,000 for 16% equity, including 5% in advisory shares. This valued
Sweetkiwi at over $2.4 million. Recognizing the opportunity, Eigbe and Akindele
accepted the deal, securing a strategic partner to help scale their business
further.
Staying True to the Mission
Beyond being a business, Sweetkiwi is committed to making a
difference. By sourcing ingredients from smallholder dairy farmers, the company
supports local agriculture and strengthens the dairy value chain in the
communities where it operates. Their mission, #DairyonaMission, reflects their
dedication to both quality and social impact.
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A Woman-Led Success Story
As a woman-owned and led company, Sweetkiwi stands out in
the food industry. Eigbe’s leadership and innovation have propelled the brand
forward, making it a role model for aspiring female entrepreneurs. She
continues to advocate for better nutrition while growing her business.
Building a Strong Foundation
Before launching Sweetkiwi, Eigbe earned a Bachelor’s degree
in Business Information Technology and International Relations from London
Metropolitan University. She later attended the Tuck Executive Education
program at Dartmouth, focusing on building a diverse and successful business.
Her education played a crucial role in shaping her strategic thinking.
Industry Challenges and Overcoming Them
The frozen yogurt industry is highly competitive, with
numerous brands vying for consumer attention. However, Sweetkiwi’s
differentiation—high-protein, gut-friendly frozen yogurt with real
ingredients—helped it stand out. Despite challenges, Eigbe remained persistent,
ensuring the brand continued to grow.
The Power of Perseverance
Eigbe and Akindele’s Shark Tank experience demonstrated
their resilience. Even when O’Leary rescinded his offer, they didn’t give up.
They kept negotiating until they secured the best deal, proving their
determination to push forward regardless of obstacles.
A Global Impact
Sweetkiwi’s journey from a homemade recipe to an
internationally recognized brand is inspiring. The company has created a
product that not only satisfies cravings but also promotes wellness. With its
expansion into U.S. retail markets, Sweetkiwi continues to impact the frozen
dessert space.
Beyond Business: Giving Back
In addition to running Sweetkiwi, Eigbe serves as a board
member at Starfield Montessori School, reflecting her commitment to education
and community development. Her influence extends beyond the food industry, as
she actively supports initiatives that create lasting change.
The Future of Sweetkiwi
With Herjavec’s investment and a strong vision, Sweetkiwi is
poised for even greater success. Eigbe remains focused on expanding the brand,
increasing distribution, and introducing more innovative, health-conscious
products. Her journey is a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and
purpose.
Timeline for story
2011 – Ehime Eigbe launches Sweetkiwi in Nigeria.
2015 – Relocates to the U.S. to expand the brand.
2022 – Sweetkiwi secures placement in major U.S. retail
stores.
2023 – Pitches on Shark Tank, lands a deal with Robert
Herjavec.
2024 – Continues expansion and innovation in the frozen
dessert industry.
