The first UK episode of Dragon's Den aired in 2005.
The BBC business programme premiered on BBC Two on 4 January 2005. It adapts a format in which entrepreneurs present business ideas to wealthy investors and request funding in exchange for equity.
Dragon's Den is the British version of an international television concept. Its format ultimately traces back to the Japanese programme Money Tigers, while the UK series later inspired versions in many other countries. The programme’s title refers to the intimidating group of investors rather than to a literal business or location.
The show is often confused with Shark Tank, the best-known American adaptation. Both programmes use entrepreneur pitches and investor negotiations, but Dragon's Den was the earlier British version and has its own panel history, presenter changes and investment deals.