What type of agreement do entrepreneurs usually seek on BBC television show Dragon's Den?

On BBC television show Dragon's Den, entrepreneurs usually seek investment for equity in their businesses.

During a pitch, a founder states the amount of money requested and the percentage of the company offered in exchange. The Dragons then question the entrepreneur about sales, costs, valuation, intellectual property and future plans before deciding whether to make an offer.

An equity investment means the Dragon receives an ownership stake rather than simply lending money. The exact deal shown on television can also be subject to due diligence and later negotiation, so an on-screen agreement is not always the final completed transaction.

The format is sometimes mistaken for a conventional loan programme because entrepreneurs ask for cash. The defining feature, however, is the proposed exchange of business ownership for investment and expertise.