Rescue Product

2 Rescue Product Success Stories [2024]

Updated: October 6th, 2024

Imagine turning waste and surplus materials into valuable consumer goods. That’s the essence of a rescue product business.

Rescue products involve repurposing discarded or overproduced materials to create new, desirable items. Whether it's transforming unused fabrics into fashion accessories or converting reclaimed wood into home décor, the opportunity lies in creative reuse. This business not only champions sustainability but also offers a unique selling proposition that appeals to eco-conscious consumers.

Starting a rescue product business requires sourcing quality materials, either from manufacturers with excess inventory or local waste facilities. You'll also need a network of artisans or a personal knack for crafting. The upside? You’ll be contributing positively to the environment while building a brand with purpose.

Consider this venture if you’re passionate about sustainability and have a creative edge. With minimal initial investment and an emphasis on upcycling, it offers both profitable and meaningful rewards.

In this list, you'll find real-world rescue product success stories and very profitable examples of starting a rescue product that makes money.

1. Jakt ($3.6M/year)

Anthony Tumbiolo, founder of Jakt, started the business after running an events business and teaching himself how to code in college. He realized he loved helping other businesses succeed and saw the potential to impact many people by creating software for them. Jakt started with a six-month contract from their first client, and they have since grown their business through referrals and strategic channel partnerships. In 2018, they achieved $4 million in revenue with a 20% profit margin.

How much money it makes: $3.6M/year
How many people on the team: 15

SMALLBORDER

How I Started A $4M/Year Digital Product Agency

Jakt, a digital product and innovation studio based in NYC, works with both startups and large enterprises, operating on a revenue of $4 million in 2018 with a 20% profit margin, with focus on referrals and channel partnerships to attract and retain clients.

Read by 8,559 founders

2. SEE/RESCUE Corporation ($240K/year)

Dr. Rob Yonover, a volcanologist, surfer, and fisherman, invented survival gear after experiencing a close call in a rented plane. While brainstorming ways to be easily seen by rescuers in the ocean, he came up with the idea for the SeeRescueStreamer, a segmented streamer that is now used by military and civilians worldwide and has saved lives. He built prototypes in his home laboratory and focused on getting media coverage and military approvals to launch his business.

How much money it makes: $240K/year
How many people on the team: 0

How I Invented A $20K/Month Rescue Device And Got A Ton Of Press (Including A Shark Tank Appearance)

This case study is about a volcanologist and inventor, Dr. Rob Yonover, who created a patented survival gear called SeeRescueStreamer, which led to sales of $20,000 per month with significant sales from international accounts, military group customers, and an appearance on ABC Shark Tank.

Read by 8,474 founders