Which Japanese television format inspired the UK BBC show Dragon's Den?

The Japanese television format Money Tigers inspired the UK BBC show Dragon's Den.

Money Tigers was created in Japan as a business-pitch programme in which entrepreneurs sought investment from a panel of wealthy businesspeople. The format became the model for Dragons' Den and several related international versions. Its central idea is simple: a founder presents a business proposition, answers questions about the company, and negotiates for investment in exchange for equity.

The UK programme began broadcasting in 2005 and adapted the format for British television. The panel members became known as Dragons rather than Tigers, while contestants generally continued to be described as entrepreneurs. The title also explains why the programme's branding uses a mythical, intimidating investor panel.

Money Tigers is sometimes confused with Shark Tank, the American adaptation of the same broad format. Shark Tank is not the source named for the UK version; the specific Japanese predecessor is Money Tigers. The format has since been licensed in numerous countries under titles using either dragons or sharks.