LAKE CHARLES, La. (KPLC) – The reality TV series “Shark Tank” has helped people launch their businesses on a global scale. In southwest Louisiana, Gator Tank is offering local entrepreneurs a chance to win $2,500 to invest in their small business.

Gabriel Fontenot, the winner of this year’s Gator Tank competition, presented his personal business, Hunt Tech insect repellent, to a panel of judges.

“I saw the opportunity online. I saw his application and I’m delighted that we were selected,” Fontenot said.

Fontenot, a native of Elton, has been working on his product for about a year now using the McNeese SEED Center business incubator. Fontenot was inspired to make this product because his family hunts insects and has always been a problem in southwest Louisiana.

“It feels great to win the Gator Tank. This is how we do our best in Lake Charles and Gator Tank is a great way to move this forward. The competition was tough and we are delighted to win,” said Fontenot.

Lake Charles officials said the city is happy to give small businesses a platform.

“In the end, Hunt Tech won and Gabriel Fontenot’s presentation was simply perfect. He really knows his product and I truly believe that mosquito repellent is going to transform the way we use and view mosquito repellents,” said Kimberly Dellafosse, Lake Charles Deputy City Administrator.

The City of Lake Charles will host the event next year as part of LC Launch Small Business Week and is encouraging people to join.

“Small business is in my blood. I want to see other small business owners take advantage of this opportunity and grow. Thanks to Mayor Hunter’s vision and commitment, we are focused on what we can do as a city to support small businesses,” Dellafosse said.

Hunt Tech is expected to fully launch in January 2025.

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