An unassuming entrepreneur who struggled with his nerves while pitching to Dragon’s Den has been branded a genius over his invention.
David, a paper engineer, appeared on Thursday’s instalment of the BBC juggernaut series, vying to impress Peter Jones, Deborah Meaden, , Touker Suleyman and .
The budding businessman has turned a variety of classic games into pop-ups, including a chess board, and he was hoping the judges would help fund his new venture.
He explained that the pop-up chess set can open and close in any position, while its ‘unique’ design makes it ‘impossible to upset the pieces.’
David added that the game made an ideal travel set and could be easily packed away on a bookshelf.
Continuing to sell the product, the craftsman spoke about its eco credentials, revealing it was produced without plastic and ‘completely recyclable before faltering.
Sensing his discomfort, Deborah said: ‘Do you want to tell us how much you want and what percentage, and if you’re struggling why don’t we ask you questions?’
Stammering, David replied: ‘No, no, yeah, I want. I’m seeking 40%. I’m seeking £40,000 for 20% equity in my company. I’m really sorry for that.’
‘I feel like I let myself down a bit with that pitch,’ David said, with Peter Jones reassuring him it was just ‘nerves’
However, the pitch didn’t affect the reception from the Dragons, who fought over a share in David’s business.
Sara branded him one of the best in the world at producing pop-ups, while Peter described him as ‘brilliant’.
‘I’m absolutely genuinely blown away,’ he continued. ‘It’s exceptional.’
All of the dragons bar Steven Bartlett gave David an offer, with Peter going in at his asking bid, with Touker Suleyman following suit.
‘If you get this response here, you’ll get this response everywhere,’ Deborah added, before going to give him a better offer of 15% of the business, which was matched by Sara.
Ultimately, David opted to work with Peter and Touker, who both took a 10% share and contributed £20,000.
Fans on Twitter were absolutely loving the pop-up set, with one calling it: This pop-up chess set is possibly the best invention I’ve seen on #DragonsDen even if the business owner is nervous as hell. I really hope someone invests.’
‘Very clever man is Mr Pop-Up,’ a viewer remarked, while another added: ‘The paper pop up games are stunning!’
Many others called the invention a brilliant idea, and were already planing their trips to the shop to purchase one.
Dragon’s Den continues on Thursday at 8pm on BBC One.
