Still, Forbes was able to go deep inside the tank and get an unprecedented look at what really happens when taping finishes.

Many of the entrepreneurs interviewed by Forbes asked for anonymity because of strict non-disclosure agreements they sign to get on the show that hold them personally liable if they discuss the details of their deals or even their experience on set. A similar 2016 survey that Forbes conducted found that about 73% of the deals in the first seven seasons either changed or fell through. (Forbes reached out to roughly 300 or so companies that got deals but only 112 responded). But an analysis of 112 businesses offered deals on seasons 8 through 13 of the show reveals that roughly half those deals never close and another 15% end up with different terms once the cameras are turned off. About two-thirds of the nearly 100 entrepreneurs who make it on air each season walk away with a handshake deal and big plans for expansion outlined by their investor. Each year, tens of thousands of small business owners compete for the opportunity to pitch their products before a national audience of millions and secure a deal with one of the show’s high-profile investors. First aired in 2009, ABC’s Shark Tank, now in its 14th season, has grown to become a sort of American Idol of entrepreneurship.

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