What is xCraft?
xCraft is a successful drone developer company. It designs and manufactures customized Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) in the U.S.A. xCraft aims to innovate high-end, small, and powerful flying machines and open commercial application doors.
Who’s Behind xCraft?
xCraft was formed in 2014 after JD Claridge and Charles Manning met and bonded over their passions for business and flying. Around this time, there had been growing interest in drones and the two saw an opportunity to utilize drones in everyday life activities. Together they developed the first product, the X PlusOne and took it to Kickstarter.
xCraft’s Kickstarter campaign was a massive success and reached nearly 300% of its initial goal. The following year in 2015, the they decided it was time to take xCraft to Shark Tank.
| Season 7 Episode 5 | |
|---|---|
| Episode Number | |
| Network | |
| Air Date | October 23, 2015 |
| Business Pitch | customized unmanned aerial systems – drones |
|---|---|
| Entrepreneur/Founder | JD Claridge |
| Asked For | $500,000 for 20% |
| Deal | $1.5 million for 25% |
| Shark | Kevin O’Leary, Mark Cuban, Lori Greiner, Daymond John, and Robert Herjavec |
| Business Status | In Business |
|---|---|
| Estimated Valuation | |
| Website | — |
After Shark Tank Update
Where Are They Now?
Aside from the few drones on Amazon and on their website, xCraft has discontinued its retail product development. The company is now solely focused on developing drones for its primary market – enterprise and military customers in the defense, energy, security, and public safety.
When they entered the tank they were seeking $500,000 for 20%, a $2.5m valuation.
I supported the Phone Drone and paid for a phone Drone! they never came through. The backers were offered their money back! nope that didn’t happen after years of waiting xCraft offered a 50% discount on another drone. Why would I do that when they can’t honor their original commitment. VERY DISAPOINTED. PLEASE DON’T SUPPORT X CRAFT
I was like you. What happened? Then I found out. They got screwed by some overseas thieves. They are in the process of refunding us for that original drone perk. I am trying to be patient. I have faith.