The first episode of the BBC television programme Dragon's Den was broadcast on 4 January 2005.
The British series was created as an adaptation of the Japanese business format Money Tigers. It gives entrepreneurs a short presentation slot in which they seek investment from a panel of wealthy business people, known as Dragons.
The programme initially aired on BBC Two and quickly became a regular part of the BBC's factual-entertainment schedule. Its central format has remained recognisable: entrepreneurs describe their product, explain their financial requirements and answer questions about sales, ownership and valuation.
The date is sometimes confused with the launch dates of local versions in other countries. Dragon's Den is a British programme, while Dragons' Den is also used for international adaptations with different premiere dates and panel members.