In Dragons' Den, what do entrepreneurs usually offer investors in return for funding?

In Dragons' Den, entrepreneurs usually offer company equity in return for funding.

Equity means an ownership share in a business. During a pitch, an entrepreneur normally states how much money is wanted and what percentage of the company is being offered. The Dragons then assess the idea, finances, valuation and proposed ownership.

This arrangement makes the programme different from a conventional loan application. A Dragon who invests for equity becomes a shareholder and may contribute advice, contacts or commercial expertise as well as money. The negotiated percentage can change if the Dragon believes the business valuation is too high.

The word “usually” matters because pitches can involve variations, including offers combining equity with other terms. Nevertheless, company ownership is the central exchange represented by the programme. A television appearance alone does not guarantee an investment, and an on-screen deal may still require later due diligence.