The first UK broadcast of the television programme Dragon's Den took place in 2005.
The BBC launched the British version in that year, adapting the Japanese business format Money Tigers for a UK audience. The programme introduced entrepreneurs who sought investment from a panel of experienced businesspeople in exchange for an ownership stake in their companies.
The launch date is distinct from later changes to the panel. Several well-known investors joined after the opening series, and others later departed, so the year a particular dragon entered the programme should not be mistaken for the year the show itself began.
Dragon's Den became part of the BBC's long-running factual-entertainment schedule and inspired international adaptations. Its basic structure has remained recognisable across the years: a business pitch, detailed questioning, negotiation over valuation and the possibility of an offer.