The Dragons' Den format originated in Japan.
The programme is based on the Japanese business reality format Money Tigers, known in Japan as Money no Tora. That original show established the basic structure later used internationally: entrepreneurs present business plans to wealthy investors and seek money in exchange for a stake in their businesses.
The British version began in 2005 and became one of the best-known adaptations. The format has since been produced in numerous countries, with local investors, presenters and business cultures shaping each edition while preserving the central pitch-and-negotiation concept.
A common mix-up is to credit the format to the United Kingdom because the British version became especially prominent. Britain created its own cast and presentation style, but the underlying television concept came from Japan.