Special Events

Get ready to kick off your KBIS week with straight-shooting business insights from Kevin O’Leary, star of ABC’s Shark Tank, serial entrepreneur, venture capitalist, investor and headliner for the Design & Construction Week® (DCW) Opening Ceremonies. 

Photo provided by Kevin O’Leary

O’Leary built his first major business, SoftKey Software Products, from his Toronto basement with “a big idea and zero cash.” Under his leadership, the company grew into an industry giant before being acquired for $4.2 billion. Since then, he has founded and invested in companies across industries ranging from technology and financial services to real estate, storage and cryptocurrency. 

As the chairman and founder of O’Leary Ventures and other businesses, O’Leary brings decades of experience evaluating opportunities, managing risk, building companies and investing for growth. He has also become a household name through Shark Tank, where his direct questions and famously blunt business advice have made him one of television’s most recognizable investors. 

During the DCW Opening Ceremonies, O’Leary will share the business lessons behind his success and offer a candid look at what it takes to identify opportunities, make smarter decisions, protect profitability and build a business that can thrive in a competitive market. 

Whether you’re a builder, remodeler, designer, supplier, entrepreneur or industry leader, expect practical insights, strong opinions and the kind of straight talk that has made Kevin O’Leary a standout business voice.

How to Participate:

Open to all registered attendees. Doors open at 7 AM. Limited general seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Complimentary shuttle bus service is provided between all official NKBA Kitchen & Bath Industry Show and NAHB International Builders’ Show® hotels and the Paradise Event Center in Westgate, except properties within walking distance.