On the BBC television show Dragon's Den, entrepreneurs usually offer equity in return for funding.
Equity means an ownership stake in a company. When a Dragon offers money for a percentage of a business, the investor becomes entitled to that agreed share of the company’s future value and, depending on the structure, its returns or voting rights.
A pitch normally combines a requested investment with a proposed valuation. For example, an entrepreneur might ask for a fixed amount in exchange for a stated percentage. The Dragons may accept, reject or negotiate the amount and ownership share, sometimes making a joint offer.
Equity is different from a salary, a patent or a television contract. A loan would normally require repayment and interest, whereas an equity investment exchanges capital for ownership. Deals shown on screen may still be subject to due diligence and legal negotiations after filming.