# Don Quiff startup investment on Die Höhle der Löwen

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/don-quiff-startup-investment-on-die-hhle-der-lwen
> Updated: 2026-10-05T21:53:41.000Z. Sources: 10. Developments: 2.

The startup Don Quiff, which produces a men’s hair wax formulated with caffeine, biotin, and ectoin, appeared on the German television program ‘Die Höhle der Löwen’. 

During the pitch, investor Carsten Maschmeyer criticized the founders, stating their business plan ‘borders on arrogance’ and questioning the lack of scientific studies to support claims regarding hair root strengthening and UV protection. He also expressed skepticism toward their financial projections. 

Despite Maschmeyer’s refusal to invest, the startup secured a 120,000-euro investment from Judith Williams and Frank Thelen. In exchange for the funding, the founders agreed to a 30 percent equity stake. Prior to the broadcast, the company reported generating 40,000 euros in sales through TikTok shops.

## Timeline

### 2026-10-05: Don Quiff secures 120,000-euro investment on Die Höhle der Löwen

Don Quiff secured 120,000 euros from Judith Williams and Frank Thelen on ‘Die Höhle der Löwen’ in exchange for a 30 percent stake in the hair care startup.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/don-quiff-secures-120000-euro-investment-on-die-hhle-der-lwen

### 2026-10-03: Carsten Maschmeyer criticizes Don Quiff founders on TV

Investor Carsten Maschmeyer criticized Don Quiff founders on ‘Die Höhle der Löwen,’ calling their ambitious revenue projections and product claims ‘bordering on arrogance’ due to a lack of scientific evidence.

8 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/carsten-maschmeyer-criticizes-don-quiff-founders-on-tv

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Cite as: Don Quiff startup investment on Die Höhle der Löwen. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/don-quiff-startup-investment-on-die-hhle-der-lwen