What do entrepreneurs generally offer Dragon's Den investors in exchange for investment?

Entrepreneurs generally offer equity in their company in exchange for investment on Dragon's Den.

Equity means an ownership share. A contestant might ask for a particular amount of money for a stated percentage of the business, implying a valuation. The dragons can accept, reject or negotiate those terms, and they may make a different offer involving more money, a larger share or additional conditions.

The arrangement is not a guaranteed grant and is not simply a salary for appearing on television. An investor who reaches an agreement expects a stake in the business and the possibility of financial returns if the company grows or is sold. A televised deal may also remain subject to checks after filming.

The format uses this exchange to make valuation visible to viewers. Entrepreneurs must defend their sales, margins, intellectual property and growth plans, while investors decide whether the proposed ownership share fairly reflects the risk. Although the precise terms vary from pitch to pitch, company equity is the standard answer to what entrepreneurs put on the table.