| “What if a simple bamboo board carried the love of a father, the sacrifice of a 9/11 hero, and the courage of three grieving children and still found its way into millions of American kitchens? That’s not a fairytale. That’s Cup Board Pro.” |
Have you ever bought a kitchen tool and felt genuinely moved? Cup Board Pro is one of those rare products not just because it solves a real problem, but because of the breathtaking story behind it. A New York City firefighter invented it in 2010. Cancer took him before he could see it succeed. His three children walked onto the Shark Tank stage just three months after his passing and made every investor in the room cry.
This blog covers absolutely everything about Cup Board Pro: what it is, how it works, the full Shark Tank story, a detailed breakdown of Cup Board Pro Net Worth, pricing, models, reviews, and where you can buy it today. Whether you’re a kitchen enthusiast, a Shark Tank fan, or just looking for the best cutting board on the market you’re in the right place.
What Is Cup Board Pro? Full Product Overview
Cup Board Pro is a patented bamboo cutting board system with one revolutionary difference from every other cutting board on the market: it features a detachable tray (the “cup”) that slides out from beneath the board, catches all your food scraps, juices, and chopped ingredients, and lets you transfer them directly into a bowl or pot without any mess.
Think about how much time you spend swiping chopped vegetables off a cutting board into a bowl often missing half of them onto the counter. Cup Board Pro eliminates that entirely. The cup hangs off the edge of the counter, positioned to catch everything that comes off the board.
How It Works Step by Step
✔ Place the board on your counter with the tray hanging over the edge
✔ Chop, slice, or dice your ingredients on the bamboo surface
✔ Sweep ingredients toward the tray they fall in automatically
✔ Juice grooves channel liquids directly into the tray as well
✔ Detach the tray and pour contents straight into your pot or bowl
✔ Both board and tray are dishwasher safe cleanup takes seconds
| Quick Product Snapshot |
| Cup Board Pro | Bamboo Cutting Board System | 3 US Patents | Available at Williams Sonoma | Price Range: $57.95 – $124.95 | Net Worth (2026): ~$15 Million |
The Inventor: Keith Young’s Emotional Story
To truly understand Cup Board Pro, you need to know about its creator Keith Young. His story is one of the most moving in entrepreneurial history.
See also:Claudia Sheinbaum Net Worth: The Scientist Who Became Mexico’s Most Powerful Woman
Who Was Keith Young?
| Category | Details |
| Full Name | Keith Young |
| Profession | New York City Firefighter & Chef |
| Nickname | The Firehouse Chef |
| Invention Year | 2010 |
| TV Appearances | Food Network Chopped (2x Champion), Throwdown with Bobby Flay |
| Published Work | ‘Cooking with the Firehouse Chef’ cookbook |
| Family | 3 children: Christian (son), Keira & Kaley (daughters) |
| Wife | Beth King passed away August 2012 (breast cancer) |
| His Illness | 9/11 related synovial sarcoma (diagnosed ~2015–2017) |
| Passed Away | March 2018 |
| Legacy | Cup Board Pro sold in Williams Sonoma stores nationwide |
The Timeline of a Dream
2010 The Idea Is Born
Keith Young, an NYC firefighter who loved cooking, wanted to spend less time cleaning up the kitchen and more time with his family. He started modifying cutting boards in his own workshop manually cutting plastic boards and attaching a cup underneath. He filed for three US patents to protect the design.
2011–2012 Tragedy Strikes Twice
Just as Keith was gaining momentum, his wife Beth was diagnosed with breast cancer. Keith put the Cup Board Pro on hold and devoted himself entirely to her care. Beth passed away in August 2012. At his children’s urging, Keith channeled his grief into cooking and went on to win Food Network’s Chopped competition twice.
2015 First Production Run Then Cancer
Keith finally received his first shipment of 2,000 Cup Board Pro units. Days later, he was diagnosed with synovial sarcoma a rare cancer linked to the toxic exposure he sustained working at Ground Zero after 9/11. Despite battling the disease, he continued working on his dream.
March 2018 Keith Passes Away
Keith Young passed away in March 2018 just three months before his children taped their Shark Tank appearance. His last wish was to see his invention in every kitchen in America.
| A Father’s Last Gift |
| Keith left behind an inventory of ~2,000 cutting boards and a dream. His children Christian, Keira, and Kaley discovered them while going through his belongings and decided: “Dad’s dream doesn’t die with him.” |
Shark Tank Appearance Season 10 Recap
Episode Details
| Field | Information |
| Show | Shark Tank (ABC) |
| Season/Episode | Season 10, Episode 3 |
| Air Date | October 21, 2018 |
| Pitchers | Christian, Keira & Kaley Young (Keith’s children) |
| Original Ask | $100,000 for 10% equity (implied $1M valuation) |
| Deal Received | $100,000 for 20% equity from ALL 5 Sharks |
| Each Shark | $20,000 for 4% equity |
| Charity Pledge | All 5 Sharks pledged to donate their equity profits to FDNY Foundation |
| Update Aired | Season 10 Ep 22 (quick update) & Season 14 Ep 14 (full segment) |
What Happened in the Tank?
Christian, Keira, and Kaley walked onto the stage just three months after losing their father. They explained Keith’s story calmly and professionally and then played a video of him demonstrating the Cup Board Pro, recorded before his passing.
The soundstage went completely silent. Shark Daymond John later wrote on Facebook that this was the most emotional pitch he had witnessed in 10 years on the show and that he nearly had to leave the set. Every person in the studio was in tears.
After stepping aside to discuss privately, all five Sharks came back with a unanimous, unprecedented offer: every single one of them wanted in.
The All 5 Sharks Deal Breakdown
| Shark | Investment | Equity % | Charity Commitment |
| Mark Cuban | $20,000 | 4% | Donated equity profits to FDNY Foundation |
| Daymond John | $20,000 | 4% | Donated equity profits to FDNY Foundation |
| Kevin O’Leary | $20,000 | 4% | Donated equity profits to FDNY Foundation |
| Lori Greiner | $20,000 | 4% | Donated equity profits + matched $10K donation |
| Matt Higgins | $20,000 | 4% | Donated equity profits + matched $10K donation |
| TOTAL | $100,000 | 20% | $100,000+ donated to charity (and growing) |
The “Shark Tank Bump” Overnight Explosion
| Metric | Figure |
| Hours after airing | 18 hours |
| Units backordered | 26,000+ units |
| Revenue generated | Over $1 million |
| People who attempted to buy | ~130,000 attempts in one night |
| Inventory status (East Coast airing) | Sold out before West Coast episode began |
| Customer emails received | Over 100,000 emails |
Product Features In Depth Breakdown
Cup Board Pro’s design is deceptively simple but there’s real engineering behind it. Here’s a complete look at every feature:
Core Features Table
| Feature | Description | Benefit |
| Detachable Cup/Tray | Slides out from under the board and hangs off counter edge | Zero counter mess food drops directly into tray |
| Premium Bamboo | Natural hardwood bamboo surface | Antibacterial, knife friendly, sustainable |
| Juice Grooves | Shallow channels carved around the board’s surface | Channels juices and liquids toward the tray |
| Built in Spouts | Spout corners on the tray | Pour juices into a pan or sink effortlessly |
| Non Slip Rubber Feet | Rubberized feet on underside | Board stays stable; slight tilt directs juice to tray |
| Foldable/Compact Tray | Tray collapses flat for storage | Easy to store doesn’t take extra cabinet space |
| Dual Sided Cutting | Both sides of the board are usable | Extra longevity and versatility |
| Dishwasher Safe | Both board and tray are dishwasher safe | Quick, hygienic cleaning no hand scrubbing |
| 3 US Patents | Design and utility patents held by Keith Young | Original protected innovation no knockoffs legally |
| Firefighter Logo | Embossed logo showing exact number of 9/11 victims | A permanent tribute to fallen first responders |
Technical Specifications
| Specification | Detail |
| Primary Material | Bamboo (natural, sustainable) |
| Board Dimensions | Approximately 19.5 x 10 x 2 inches (varies by model) |
| Tray Material | Plastic / polypropylene (detachable) |
| Dishwasher Safe | Yes both board and tray |
| Knife Compatibility | Compatible with all knife types gentle on blades |
| Patents Held | 3 US patents |
| Available Colors/Finishes | Natural bamboo, Slate (all black), Richlite composite |
| Eco Friendly | Yes bamboo is a fast renewing, sustainable resource |
All Models & Current Pricing (2026)
Since its Williams Sonoma partnership, Cup Board Pro has expanded well beyond the original single model. Here’s the complete lineup:
| Model Name | Price (USD) | Material | Key Feature | Best For |
| Original Bamboo | $89.95 | Bamboo | Classic design, 2 juice grooves | Everyday home cooks |
| Slate (All Black) | $89.95 | Bamboo + Slate finish | Premium stylish look | Modern kitchen aesthetics |
| Cup Board Pro XL | $124.95 | Bamboo | 2 compartments + sliding divider | Large families, meal prep |
| Synthetic (Plastic) | $57.95 | High density polyethylene | Thin, reversible, lightweight | Budget conscious buyers |
| Richlite (Green Cup) | $119.95 | Recycled wood fiber composite | Eco + includes Keith’s cookbook | Eco conscious cooks |
| Richlite (Slate Cup) | $119.95 | Recycled wood fiber composite | Eco + includes Keith’s cookbook | Eco conscious cooks |
| Bonus With Richlite Models |
| Both Richlite versions include a FREE copy of Keith Young’s personal cookbook ‘Cooking with the Firehouse Chef’ featuring 100+ original recipes from the Firehouse Chef himself. A perfect gift option. |
Original vs. Current Pricing
| Stage | Unit Cost to Make | Retail Price | Margin |
| Pre Shark Tank (2018) | $12.50 | $40.00 | ~68% |
| Williams Sonoma (2019+) | Undisclosed | $57.95–$124.95 | Improved |
Net Worth & Financial Success Detailed Analysis
This is the section most people come here for and the numbers are genuinely impressive for a kitchen cutting board brand. Let’s walk through Cup Board Pro’s financial journey from zero to $15 million.
Financial Growth Timeline
| Period | Milestone | Figure |
| 3 weeks before Shark Tank | Units sold via social media & online | ~300 units |
| Shark Tank investment received | Combined Sharks’ contribution | $100,000 for 20% |
| Within 18 hours of airing | Revenue from backorders | $1 million+ |
| Within 18 hours of airing | Units backordered | 26,000 units |
| Night of airing | People who attempted to purchase | ~130,000 attempts |
| 2019 Year 1 post Shark Tank | Annual sales | $1 million+ (surpassed) |
| 2019 | Units sold | 20,000+ units |
| 2020 | Annual revenue | $3 million+ |
| 2022 | Cumulative total sales | $7 million+ |
| 2024 | Estimated brand net worth | $15 million+ |
| Ongoing | Annual revenue (current) | ~$3 million/year |
Net Worth Breakdown What Makes Up the $15 Million?
Cup Board Pro’s estimated net worth of $15 million (as of 2026) is calculated based on annual revenue, brand equity, Williams Sonoma distribution value, and intellectual property (3 patents). Here’s what drives it:
✔ Annual revenue of ~$3 million per year creates a strong recurring income base
✔ Williams Sonoma exclusivity adds significant brand premium and distribution value
✔ 3 US patents protect the design, creating a moat against competition
✔ Ongoing media coverage (Good Morning America, Today Show, Rachel Ray) adds brand value
✔ Emotional brand story creates exceptionally loyal repeat customers
✔ Expanding product line (XL, Richlite, Synthetic) increases total addressable market
✔ Charitable mission builds brand goodwill that money can’t buy
Shark Tank Valuation Comparison
| Valuation Point | Amount | Notes |
| Pitch valuation (ask) | $1,000,000 | Based on $100K for 10% |
| Deal valuation | $500,000 | Based on $100K for 20% |
| 2019 post WS valuation | $3–5 million est. | After Williams Sonoma launch |
| 2022 valuation | $10 million est. | After $7M cumulative sales |
| 2024 net worth (est.) | $15 million+ | Current estimated brand value |
| Key Takeaway on Net Worth |
| Cup Board Pro grew from a $500,000 Shark Tank valuation to an estimated $15 million in just 6 years a 30x increase. Annual revenue of $3M/year means the business is highly sustainable, not just a one time viral hit. |
Charity Financials
| Milestone | Amount |
| Initial GoFundMe goal (for firefighters) | $25,000 |
| Early donations to FDNY Foundation | $41,000 |
| Season 14 update donation | $10,000 cheque to FDNY Foundation |
| Lori Greiner & Matt Higgins match | Additional $10,000 each (matched) |
| Total donated to date | $100,000+ |
| Sharks’ equity profits (all donated) | 100% of Shark equity profits to charity |
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Williams Sonoma Partnership The Game Changer
If Shark Tank was the ignition, Williams Sonoma was the engine that turned Cup Board Pro into a multimillion dollar brand. Daymond John facilitated the introduction, and it completely transformed the business.
What the Partnership Delivered
✔ Distribution across 600+ Williams Sonoma retail stores nationwide
✔ Premium placement on Williams Sonoma’s website and catalog
✔ Williams Sonoma took over manufacturing, quality control, and shipping
✔ Product was redesigned to be thinner, lighter, and higher quality
✔ New models were developed (Slate, XL, Richlite) under WS guidance
✔ Williams Sonoma confirmed Cup Board Pro as the fastest selling cutting board in the store’s history
✔ The partnership allowed the Young siblings to focus on brand story and marketing
Williams Sonoma President Janet Hayes praised Keith Young as an American hero and the store’s alignment with the Cup Board Pro brand elevated both its reach and its premium perception.
Kaley Young said at the launch: “Our dad loved shopping in Williams Sonoma, so we are very happy that Cup Board Pro will be on the shelves of one of his favorite stores.”
Keira Young confirmed to ABC News that Cup Board Pro became the fastest selling and most popular cutting board in Williams Sonoma history just nine months after the partnership began.
Customer Reviews & Ratings
Cup Board Pro has earned overwhelmingly positive reviews across Williams Sonoma, Amazon, and other platforms. Here’s what real customers are saying:
Rating Summary
| Star Rating | Approx. % | Common Sentiment |
| ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5 Stars) | ~75% | Game changer, best kitchen purchase ever, zero mess |
| ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4 Stars) | ~15% | Great product, minor delivery delays |
| ⭐⭐⭐ (3 Stars) | ~6% | Tray sometimes detaches during use |
| ⭐⭐ (2 Stars) | ~2% | Expected different size or fit |
| ⭐ (1 Star) | ~2% | Shipping issues or out of stock frustration |
Amazon reviews place Cup Board Pro as the #1 bestseller in the Kitchen Cutting Boards category with a near perfect score over 90% of reviewers give it a positive rating.
What Customers Love Most
✔ Zero counter mess chopped ingredients go directly into the tray
✔ Bamboo quality is exceptional sturdy, smooth, and knife gentle
✔ Juice grooves actually work no more liquid pooling on the counter
✔ Emotionally meaningful many customers say buying it felt like supporting a worthy cause
✔ Dishwasher safe tray makes cleanup ridiculously easy
✔ Long lasting multiple reviewers report the board looking new after 1–2 years
Common Complaints
✘ Tray sometimes doesn’t hold firmly when the board is wet or freshly washed
✘ Price is on the higher end compared to standard cutting boards
✘ Only officially available at Williams Sonoma limited international access
✘ Occasional stock shortages due to high demand
Pros & Cons Honest Evaluation
✅ Pros
| Pro | Why It Matters |
| Eliminates counter mess | The detachable tray catches everything no more sweeping scraps off counters |
| Bamboo is antibacterial | Natural resistance to bacteria growth safer than plastic boards |
| Juice grooves work | Channels liquid into the cup great for cutting meat and fruit |
| Dishwasher safe | Both board and tray extremely convenient |
| 3 US Patents | Original, legally protected design not a copycat |
| Multiple models | Price range from $57.95 to $124.95 suits different budgets |
| Williams Sonoma quality | Premium manufacturing standards since 2019 partnership |
| Charitable mission | Every purchase contributes to a meaningful cause |
| Eco friendly options | Richlite model uses recycled and sustainable materials |
| Cookbook included | Richlite models come with Keith’s personal cookbook |
❌ Cons
| Con | Detail |
| Tray grip issues | Some users report the tray slides or detaches when board is wet |
| Premium pricing | $89–$124 is expensive for a cutting board, even a great one |
| Williams Sonoma exclusive | Not easy to find outside WS limits global availability |
| Canada shipping problems | Multiple customers report difficulty ordering and receiving in Canada |
| Limited size variety | Original model only comes in one size some want a smaller option |
| Stock availability | Frequently sold out due to consistently high demand |
Where to Buy Complete Buying Guide
Availability by Platform
| Platform | Available? | Price Range | Recommended? | Notes |
| Williams Sonoma Stores | Yes ✓ | $57.95–$124.95 | Best option | 600+ locations nationwide |
| Williams Sonoma Website | Yes ✓ | $57.95–$124.95 | Recommended | Easiest way to order all models |
| Amazon | Limited | Varies | Check listing | Verify it’s sold by official seller |
| firehousechefky.com | Yes ✓ | Varies | Good option | Official brand website |
| Bed Bath & Beyond / Sur La Table | Select | Varies | Check availability | Sold through select kitchenware retailers |
| Canada | Difficult | — | Limited | Many users report shipping challenges |
| International | Limited | — | Limited | Check WS international shipping options |
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Buying Tips
✔ Always purchase from Williams Sonoma or the official website for guaranteed authenticity
✔ Choose the Richlite model if you want the cookbook included great gift option
✔ The XL model is ideal for large families or anyone who cooks in bulk
✔ On a tight budget? The Synthetic model at $57.95 still delivers the core innovation
✔ Sign up for Williams Sonoma emails to catch sales and discount events
✔ The Original Bamboo model is the best seller and the most classic choice
✔ Check stock regularly popular models sell out often, especially near holidays
Charitable Mission & Legacy
What separates Cup Board Pro from every other kitchen gadget on the market isn’t just the design it’s the mission. This brand exists to honor Keith Young’s memory and to help the firefighters who gave their health responding to 9/11.
The FDNY Foundation Connection
✔ All 5 Sharks pledged to donate 100% of their equity profits to the FDNY Foundation
✔ The FDNY Foundation directly supports first responders sickened by 9/11 toxic exposure
✔ The Young siblings presented a $10,000 check to the foundation during their Season 14 update
✔ Lori Greiner and Matt Higgins each matched that donation bringing it to $30,000 that day
✔ Total donations to date exceed $100,000
✔ The brand’s official website also hosts a donation portal for firefighter charities
The firefighter logo embossed on every Cup Board Pro is not decorative it displays the exact number of firefighters who perished on September 11, 2001. It is a quiet, permanent tribute etched into the bamboo of every board sold.
| What Happened to the Young Children? |
| In the Season 14 Shark Tank update, guest Shark Matt Higgins told Christian, Keira, and Kaley: ‘You will never have to work for anyone else again.’ Christian pursued his own path, Keira enrolled in her dream college to study business, Kaley launched her own interior design company, bought a home, and got married. Keith Young’s dream came true and then some. |
FAQ Most Asked Questions Answered
Is Cup Board Pro dishwasher safe?
Yes. Both the bamboo board and the detachable plastic tray are fully dishwasher safe one of its most convenient features.
What is Cup Board Pro’s net worth in 2024?
As of 2024, Cup Board Pro’s estimated net worth is approximately $15 million. Annual revenue is around $3 million per year, and cumulative sales have exceeded $7 million.
Who invented Cup Board Pro?
Keith Young a New York City firefighter, two time Food Network Chopped champion, and cookbook author invented Cup Board Pro in 2010. He passed away in March 2018 from 9/11 related cancer. His three children brought the product to Shark Tank.
Did all 5 Sharks invest in Cup Board Pro?
Yes in a rare and emotional moment, all five Sharks (Mark Cuban, Daymond John, Kevin O’Leary, Lori Greiner, and guest Shark Matt Higgins) invested $20,000 each for a combined $100,000 in exchange for 20% equity. All five also pledged to donate their equity profits to a firefighters’ charity.
Where can I buy Cup Board Pro?
Cup Board Pro is primarily available through Williams Sonoma (in store and online), the official website firehousechefky.com, and select listings on Amazon. International availability is limited.
Is Cup Board Pro worth the price?
For most users yes. At $89.95 for the original bamboo model, it’s more expensive than basic cutting boards, but the no mess functionality, bamboo quality, 3 patent innovation, dishwasher safety, and the meaningful story behind it make it a worthwhile purchase. Over 90% of reviewers give it a positive rating.
What is the Cup Board Pro XL?
The XL model is a larger version of the original featuring two separate compartments and a sliding divider ideal for separating food types during prep. It retails for $124.95 at Williams Sonoma.
Is Cup Board Pro eco friendly?
The bamboo models are eco friendly bamboo is a fast renewing, sustainable material with natural antibacterial properties. The Richlite models go further, using recycled wood fiber and paper composite materials.
Does Cup Board Pro still donate to charity?
Yes. The company continues to donate proceeds to the FDNY Foundation and other firefighter related charities. Total donations have exceeded $100,000 as of their Season 14 update.
What is the Firehouse Chef logo on Cup Board Pro?
The logo embossed on every Cup Board Pro features the exact number of firefighters who died on September 11, 2001. It is a permanent tribute to the heroes Keith Young served alongside.
Final Verdict Should You Buy Cup Board Pro?
Cup Board Pro earns its place as one of the most compelling kitchen products in modern American entrepreneurship not just because it works beautifully, but because of the story it carries.
The Numbers At a Glance
| Metric | Value |
| Net Worth (2026) | ~$15 million |
| Annual Revenue | ~$3 million/year |
| Cumulative Sales | $7 million+ |
| Amazon Rating | 90%+ positive (Top 1 cutting board) |
| Shark Tank Deal | $100,000 from all 5 Sharks |
| Charity Donated | $100,000+ to FDNY Foundation |
| Williams Sonoma Status | Fastest selling cutting board in WS history |
| Patents | 3 US patents |
| Models Available | 6 models $57.95 to $124.95 |
Cup Board Pro is genuinely worth buying. It solves a real problem, it’s made from quality materials, it’s backed by a brand you can trust, and every purchase contributes to a cause that matters. The Shark Tank story isn’t just marketing it’s the real foundation of why this product exists.
Keith Young’s dream was to put Cup Board Pro in every kitchen in America. Thanks to his children’s courage and the incredible response from American consumers, that dream is slowly, beautifully coming true.
| “Keith Young is an American hero. His children are an American success story. And Cup Board Pro is proof that a great idea made with love can outlast anything.” |
Adam is a skilled writer with 4 years of experience in celebrity net worth and biography blogs. Currently, he contributes his expertise to enhancing content at InfoCelebz, providing accurate and engaging information.