Which company created the Japanese television format that became the basis for Dragons' Den?

Nippon Television created the Japanese television format that became the basis for Dragons' Den.

The format originated in Japan under the title Money Tigers. Its defining mechanism was a direct pitch from an entrepreneur to several wealthy potential backers, followed by questioning and a possible investment agreement. Nippon Television developed that concept before it was adapted for audiences in other countries.

The British version changed the language and presentation to suit the UK. Its investors became Dragons, and the programme developed its own recognizable panel, terminology and style while retaining the original pitch-room structure.

This origin is sometimes blurred by the success of Shark Tank, the US version that became widely known internationally. Shark Tank and Dragons' Den are related adaptations, but Nippon Television is the company credited with creating the underlying Japanese format rather than an American broadcaster.