Nippon TV created the television format later adapted into the UK show Dragon's Den.
Nippon TV, formally Nippon Television Network Corporation, developed the Japanese business-pitch concept that became the international format behind Dragon's Den. The programme structure places entrepreneurs before a group of wealthy investors, who can question the proposal and decide whether to offer funding.
The format travelled internationally because its central conflict is easy to understand: founders want capital and expertise, while investors want a convincing business opportunity and a worthwhile share. Each national version can therefore use local entrepreneurs and investors while retaining the same basic pitch-room setup.
Nippon TV should not be confused with NHK, Japan's public broadcaster, or with the American network ABC, which broadcasts Shark Tank. Those are different broadcasters connected to different television versions or formats.