If you’re here, you probably know a bit about what we’re doing at Dig. We’re on a mission to make gardening more accessible, more enjoyable, and more rewarding for people across the UK. But as we keep growing, I’ve been wondering if it might be time to take things up a notch and apply to be on the next series of the BBC’s iconic show, Dragons’ Den.
Now, the idea of walking into that studio, facing down a panel of seasoned, inspiring investors, and pitching our heart out for Dig is both exciting and a little terrifying. But I keep thinking, could this be the big break we need?
Why Dragons’ Den?
For starters, the exposure would be incredible. Millions of people watch the BBC show (it’s still wildly popular after 21 series), and a ten-minute pitch aired on national TV could put us on the radar of so many potential customers. Plus, if we did manage to get a Dragon on board, their investment and business connections could help us reach more gardening enthusiasts, and of course bring fresh ideas to Dig that would make us a stronger business. Each of the Dragons has such amazing credentials – Peter Jones, Deborah Meaden, Sara Davies, Touker Souleyman and Steven Bartlett – and we’d honestly be delighted to welcome any of them on board (though I do have a soft spot for Sara Davies) if we ever got that far.
Have we seen gardening on Dragon’s Den before?
While not as common as food or tech businesses, some gardening-related companies have braved the Den.
Grow Sow Simple: This company, featured in 2023, offers easy-to-use seed kits designed to encourage more people to take up gardening. They successfully secured an £80,000 investment from Sara Davies. Their kits focus on simplicity, with pre-spaced seeds that can be sown directly into the ground or pots, making gardening accessible for beginners.
The Secret Garden Glamping: Although not strictly a gardening company, this business appeared in 2024 and secured investment. They offer unique glamping experiences in woodland settings, emphasizing the connection with nature and outdoor living.
It’s worth noting that gardening-related businesses often face specific challenges when pitching on Dragons’ Den. The Dragons might question the scalability of the business, the seasonality of demand, or the competition from established players in the market.
Dig on Dragons’ Den: what makes us unique?
It wouldn’t be the first time a gardening company had pitched to the Dragons, but there are a number of aspects that would make Dig on Dragons’ Den a unique proposition.
Previous entrepreneurs have sought to help make gardening easier, although Dig would be the first to offer ready-to-plant instant beds on Dragons’ Den, offering convenience to customers who want a beautiful garden instantly.
There have also been successful entrepreneurs such as Landscapes for Learning who have provided gardening solutions for institutions, but Dig is primarily intended for the consumer market.
The Potential Downsides
Well, firstly, there’s no guarantee we’d even get on the show in the first place considering the calibre of the businesses that apply for the process. It’s super competitive, so we’d do well to get through the ‘qualification stage’ of Dragons’ Den let alone get to the studio for recording.
And if we were fortunate enough to make it through, then that’s where it would get really interesting. The Dragons are known for being, well, a bit fiery. They’ll ask the tough questions, and if they don’t like what they see, they won’t hold back. Whilst we will be as prepared as we can possibly be for the grilling, the thought of receiving harsh criticism about our business, brand and gardens that is then aired to the whole nation… well, it’s pretty nerve-wracking. There’s zero guarantee that our idea for Instant Gardens and Flower Beds would be well received by the Dragons, so being prepared for rejection is definitely necessary!
And finally, even if we do make it to the studio, there’s no guarantee (whatever the outcome) that we would end up on one of the Dragons’ Den episodes. Which could mean a massive amount of physical and emotional investment for no tangible outcome or benefit!
So, What’s the Verdict?
At the end of the day, I’m leaning towards giving it a go. Yes, it might be nerve-wracking, but the opportunity for growth and visibility is just too good to pass up. And who knows, we might even get one of the Dragons to share our passion for making gardening fun and accessible for everyone.
So, what do you think? Would you cheer us on from your sofa if Dig Club made an appearance on Dragons’ Den?
🌱 Let us know!
Until next time, happy gardening!
