On what date did BBC television first broadcast the British business show Dragon's Den?

Dragon's Den was first broadcast in the United Kingdom on 4 January 2005.

The BBC launched the programme as a British adaptation of an international business format in which entrepreneurs present ideas to wealthy investors. Contestants seek money in exchange for a stake in their companies, while the investors question them about sales, costs, ownership and growth.

The British series became known for its deliberately tense pitch-room setting and for the investors’ willingness to reject proposals quickly. Although the programme is associated with BBC Two, its later popularity led to repeats and related programming across the BBC.

The date is sometimes confused with the arrival of particular Dragons or presenters. The programme began in 2005, while its panel and presentation changed over subsequent series.