In the UK television show Dragon's Den, which private-equity firm was founded by Dragon James Caan?

Dragon James Caan founded the private-equity firm Hamilton Bradshaw.

Hamilton Bradshaw was established by James Caan in 2003. The firm focused on private equity and investments in areas including recruitment, business services and related sectors. Its name became associated with acquiring and supporting established companies rather than selling consumer products directly to the public.

Caan joined Dragon's Den in 2007 and used his experience in recruitment and investment when assessing entrepreneurs. Before Hamilton Bradshaw, he had built businesses in the recruitment industry, including Alexander Mann and Humana International.

Hamilton Bradshaw is not the same organisation as 3i, Permira or Apax Partners. Those are separate private-equity firms with their own founders, histories and investment portfolios. The company is a useful clue to Caan's professional background: he approached many pitches as an investor seeking growth, management capability and a credible route to returns.