1 Please provide us with a brief bio of yourself.

Founded in 2014 by Dominican inventor and entrepreneur Robbie Cabral, and as seen on ABC's hit show Shark Tank—BenjiLock is redefining the personal security experience by using fingerprint hybrid technology in padlocks, bike locks, and deadbolts to bring protection with the consumer in mind.

2 What is your role in the company?

I'm that entrepreneur that wears many hats. I'm the CEO and Founder at BenjiLock, and I love been involve in every aspect of the business, especially the innovation side of things.

3 Please tell us more about your organization.

Based in Los Angeles, California, and founded in 2014 by inventor and entrepreneur Robbie Cabral, BenjiLock has redefined the personal security experience through hybrid technology with the consumer in mind. Featured on ABC's hit show Shark Tank, Robbie Cabral landed Kevin O'Leary as an investor with a 15% equity stake in the company, catapulting BenjiLock's potential and success by securing a licensing partnership with Hampton Products International, the leader in security and hardware innovations and makers of BRINKS locks. Through this strategic partnership, BenjiLock was able to utilize the 30+ years of experience of Hampton Products International to further its production and manufacturing, escalating the brand to unprecedented levels. Today, BenjiLock's fingerprint technology is expanding into a portfolio of products, including an upcoming line of bike locks, next-generation of padlocks, drawer closets, and cabinet locks, as well as a brand new line of smart home door locks.

4 Describe the industry your organization is specialized in, as well as its main characteristics.

We specialize in personal security. The traditional lock hasn't changed in over 100 years, and since the introduction of the key, the BenjiLock invention has become the innovation in its category. BenjiLock is the fresh air when it comes to padlocks and the world of locks. The innovations are becoming more accessible as we go, and each to fit their lifestyle. The hybrid mechanism of the innovation makes it unique and accessible to friends, families, the "active" generation, and the accessibility community to seniors and people with disabilities.

5 Congratulations! As the winner of the TITAN Business Awards, what does it mean for you and your team to receive this distinction?

It speaks volumes! And we're just getting started. It's also a testament that hard work pays off. If you have an idea, go for it. That's what we did with BenjiLock. Innovation is exciting, and we're honored.

6 How has winning an international award help promote your organization?

We're excited! Not only we're expanding our retail footprint, but we see BenjiLock as a global brand, and to be recognized with a TITAN award, means a lot to the entire team. Remember, padlocks are universal.

7 What are the challenges of developing / marketing your winning entry(ies)?

To tell you the truth—when you're passionate about what you do, nothing is challenging. It becomes more fun and exciting to go at it!

8 As a business owner, please tell us more about your ideation process.

Simplicity at its best. When I created BenjiLock, it wasn't because I wanted to do something. I decided to go all-in because I noticed a solution to a problem. If you go that route, then the ideation process is simple. I don't like to overcomplicate things. Put yourself as the consumer, and go from there.

9 What is your own definition of a successful team / organization / business?

Teamwork makes the dream work. It may sound cliché, but it's the truth. Let everyone be themselves, and everything will flourish.

10 What led you / your organization to become successful within the industry you are currently in?

I believe my personal story and struggles to get where I am at today are what truly is the American Dream. The everyday people relate to it because I am one of them. BenjiLock has a story to tell as a brand compared to others. Why? Because it's real life. As the author of Steve Jobs's biography, Walter Isaacson, said during CES: "Robbie Cabral had something, perhaps even better than a rock star—he had become a lock star." And I couldn't agree more.

11 How has the country, you are based in, helped move your industry forward?

The industry was already there. I'm just disrupting it. BenjiLock is building a community. It's breaking the mold and thinking of 'locks' to the current and future generation, especially the Millenials, Gen Z, and Alphas. The beauty of the United States is the amount of diversity, and I love reaching everyone in between.

12 What have you found to be a hindering factor, for your business, during the entire course of the pandemic, and how did you overcome that hinderance?

I decided to give back. In light of this pandemic, I've taken the time to foster innovation. To inspire low-income students in the Los Angeles metro area, I've been working with the Los Angeles Unified School District schools, participating in Career Days and spending time with the students virtually discussing my invention, the importance of the subjects studied, and how elementary subjects are used within my job today.

13 What are the current trends in the business industry that you are most excited about?

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, bicycles have become more popular than ever, and overall sales are up. It's the perfect time to innovate in the category. And that's why the hybrid patented technology was 'pivoted' into a bike lock. I'm ecstatic as I love biking! Also, the benefits to the homeowner are exciting! From your daily groceries, kids' activities, converting your garage to a home gym, or the added benefit of an Airbnb, the 'Fingerprint Door Lock' has become a trendsetter in the lifestyle of today's consumer. The opportunity to deliver an extraordinary experience that unlocks any generation helps BenjiLock be on top of the mind for integrators, builders, and designers.

14 What resources would you recommend to someone who is searching to improve their business prospects and organizational success?

As entrepreneurs, we tend to be our way, or the highway, and think we're the only ones going through it. In reality, we're all in this together. Network with others. Don't be afraid to share your idea and connect with other entrepreneurs. Seek mentorship as it never hurts.

15 Where do you see the evolution of the overall business industry in the next 5-10 years?

The smart home market is showing no signs of slowing down, including the use of biometrics. The consumers are adopting it, and I'm glad to be part of it.

16 Who inspired you in your life, and why?

Kevin is an inspiration I follow. The chance to have Kevin O’Leary as my investor, as a mentor, and advisor, is a blessing. Kevin’s vision was also where I saw BenjiLock going. Having a passion for music and photography showed me that he also respects creativity and out-of-the-box thinking.

17 What is your key to success? Any parting words of wisdom?

For myself, being an entrepreneur means you can’t be afraid of dreaming big. If you have a vision or a passion for something, go for it. Be persistent, patient, and able to deal with the emotional distress that life may bring. If you're able to stay on track, things eventually fall in place.

Winning Entry

 
2021
Entrepreneur

Entrant Company

BenjiLock

Category

Entrepreneur - Safety / Security