'Pop Idol' chance for entrepreneurs

The BBC is currently running a series of programmes 'Dragon's Den', a version of Pop Idol for would-be-entrepreneurs.

The concept is simple. Aspiring businessmen or women in need of raising finances can pitch their idea to a panel of five entrepreneurs, 'the dragons'. In true Pop Idol-style, if they like the idea they might invest in it, if they don't, the would-be entrepreneur can hear his or her idea torn to shreds.

The Times reports that the BBC has already received almost 2,000 unsolicited applications wanting to take part in a second series; and about 2.4 million watched the second programme in the current series last week.

The 'dragons' include Rachel Elnaugh, who runs Red Letter Days, a firm that creates 'unforgettable experiences', and Duncan Bannatyne, who heads the Bannatyne health club business.

So far, the 'dragons' have backed two businesses; one for umbrella-vending machines in London's Underground and the other for tailor-made business suits for women.