The British television series Dragon's Den began broadcasting in 2005.
The series introduced British viewers to entrepreneurs seeking finance from a panel of business investors. Each pitch combined a short presentation with questioning about sales, valuation, ownership and future plans. The launch helped make televised business negotiation a familiar part of British popular culture.
The year 2005 refers to the beginning of the British series, not the origin of the wider format. Dragon's Den ultimately derives from a Japanese programme and has had versions in numerous countries. The British edition therefore has a distinct launch date even though its underlying concept predates it.
The programme has continued through multiple changes of investors and production eras. Its central structure has stayed recognisable: an entrepreneur enters the pitch room, states the investment sought and offers a percentage of the company.