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Who is the Black Guy On Dragons' Den?

Published in Dragons' Den Investor 3 mins read

The prominent black entrepreneur and investor featured on the British television show Dragons' Den is Steven Bartlett.

Steven Bartlett: Entrepreneur and Dragon

Steven Bartlett became a familiar face on Dragons' Den when he joined the panel of investors in 2021, making history as the youngest Dragon at the age of 28. Born on August 26, 1992, in Botswana, Steven's background is a blend of cultures, with an English father and a Nigerian mother. His diverse heritage contributes to his unique perspective and wide appeal. He quickly established himself as a forward-thinking investor, particularly interested in technology, social media, and consumer brands.

Key Facts About Steven Bartlett

Aspect Detail
Full Name Steven Cliff Bartlett
Born August 26, 1992, in Botswana
Background Son of an English father and a Nigerian mother
Known For Dragons' Den, Founder of Social Chain, Host of The Diary Of A CEO podcast
Joined Den 2021 (youngest Dragon at 28)
Focus Tech, e-commerce, social media, consumer brands

His Journey to the Den

Steven Bartlett's entrepreneurial journey began at a young age, dropping out of university to pursue his ambitions. He famously founded the social media marketing agency, Social Chain, from his Manchester bedroom. Under his leadership, Social Chain grew into a global media empire before he stepped down as CEO to pursue other ventures. His success with Social Chain, along with other investments and ventures like Flight Story, positioned him as a leading figure in the digital business landscape and a natural fit for the Dragons' Den panel.

Impact on Dragons' Den

As a Dragon, Steven Bartlett brought a fresh, modern perspective to the long-running show. His investments and insights often reflect current trends and future directions in business.

  • Modern Approach: He introduced a new dynamic, often valuing intangible assets like brand presence and community engagement as much as traditional financial metrics.
  • Focus on Digital: His expertise in social media and digital marketing proved invaluable, guiding pitches from startups in the tech and online sectors.
  • Inspiration for Young Entrepreneurs: His rapid rise to success and his relatable communication style have made him an inspiring figure for aspiring entrepreneurs, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds.

You can learn more about Steven Bartlett's background and career on his Wikipedia page or explore the show he appears on via the BBC Dragons' Den website. He also hosts the highly popular podcast, The Diary Of A CEO.