What was the name of the investment format adapted into the BBC's Dragon's Den?

The investment format adapted into the BBC's Dragon's Den was the Japanese programme Money Tigers.

Money Tigers established the core television structure later recognised in the British series: entrepreneurs seek funding by presenting business proposals to a panel of investors. The BBC adaptation localised the format, using British presenters, entrepreneurs, business examples and investor personalities while preserving the central negotiation.

This distinction separates the format's source from the title of the British programme. Dragon's Den is not the original Japanese name, and Money Tigers is not the name of a British investor panel. The title refers to the earlier programme from which the concept was adapted.

The same underlying format has travelled widely. Different territories have used different animal metaphors and titles, with Shark Tank being the best-known American example. Despite variations in casting and production, the common element is the public pitch followed by a possible offer of investment for equity.