MIAs2e7 - Chris Talks with the Founder of Bug Bite Thing Kelley Higney

The LaunchPad

Kelley Higney is the founder and CEO of Bug Bite Thing. In 2013, Kelley’s family relocated from San Diego, California to South Florida. There was one thing they were not prepared for—the mosquitos. Her six-month-old daughter was constantly suffering from severe reactions to the bites. Determined to find a natural alternative to the available remedies on the market, Kelley began conducting research. She ordered an unfamiliar product that uses suction to remove the irritant—and it worked! It transformed the quality of life for her family—they could finally spend time outdoors! Kelley was determined to share it with others. In 2017, she secured exclusive distribution rights to the product and branded it Bug Bite Thing. Kelley has since been a “Mom on a Mission” to educate the world on the most effective, chemical-free solution for insect bite relief.

The company gained national recognition in October 2019 when Kelley and her mother, Ellen McAlister, appeared on ABC’s hit show, ‘Shark Tank.’ All the Sharks were biting with offers to invest in the business, but it was Lori Greiner’s ‘Golden Ticket’ offer that secured the partnership. In April 2021, Kelley and her mother returned to ‘Shark Tank.’ This time, they shared details on the company's transformation into a multi-million dollar enterprise following their first appearance on the show. Bug Bite Thing is Amazon’s #1 selling product for insect bite relief with more than 60,000 reviews.

Kelley is a member of the Fast Company Executive Board and Forbes Business Council. She is also the recipient of numerous awards, including two Gold Stevie Awards wins and was named ‘Woman of the Year’ by the 2021 American Business Awards and ‘Female Entrepreneur of the Year’ by the 2021 Stevie Awards for Women in Business. Kelley is active within the South Florida business community. She resides in South Florida with her husband, Richard, and their daughters, Leah and Lilly.