Dragons' Den is the British adaptation of the Japanese business programme Money Tigers.
Money Tigers was created in Japan as a format in which entrepreneurs sought funding from a panel of wealthy investors. The concept was adapted for several countries, with each version retaining the essential pitch, questioning and negotiation structure while using local businesspeople and production styles.
In the British edition, the investors are called dragons rather than sharks or tigers. Entrepreneurs usually request a specific amount of money for a stated percentage of their company, although the discussion can lead to revised valuations, different equity terms or no deal at all.
The title can cause confusion because the American series Shark Tank is also based on the wider international format lineage. Dragons' Den, however, is the recognised British title and premiered in 2005. Its name has also been used by adaptations in other countries, including Canada, Ireland and Australia.