This week sees a fresh batch of candidates compete to win a £250,000 investment from Lord Sugar in the 20th series of the long-running BBC show The Apprentice.
First broadcast in the UK in February 2005, following the success of the American version featuring a certain Donald J. Trump, The Apprentice is one of the Beeb’s most successful shows.
Originally aired on BBC 2 it soon made the transition to BBC One, as viewers became hooked on the tasks set by Amstrad founder Lord Sugar.
Season 20 of the show will launch on Thursday, January 29, at 9pm on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.
And the first episode will see the boardroom held in Hong Kong - with Baroness Karren Brady and former winner Tim Campbell advising Lord Sugar on the suitability of the candidates.
The last entrepreneur standing will receive a cool quarter-of-a-million pound investment, along with mentorship from Lord Sugar himself.
We’ve already taken a look at their all-important business plans.
Now we’re looking at why each of the 20 candidates reckon they deserve the cash.
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1. Vanessa Tetteh-Squire
"I believe the swimwear industry needs a visionary like me - someone who not only knows what looks great but also understands the importance of feeling good. I’m a quick learner and always ready to take risks. I firmly believe that progress in life comes from constantly stepping outside your comfort zone and embracing those risks. I’m also known for my honesty and straightforward approach, much like Lord Sugar. I’m confident we’d get along exceptionally well, because clear communication and bold thinking are what drive success." | BBC
2. Tanmay Hingorani
"I deserve Lord Sugar’s investment because I don’t just talk about ideas, I have the business and technical acumen to build them. I’ve proven in AI product consulting that I can turn vision into reality, developing digital products for major organisations that deliver measurable results. Like Lord Sugar, who began his career selling technology, I understand how to turn innovation into commercial success. Our skills would complement each other, combining his business experience with my product expertise. I’m ambitious, pragmatic and focused on building something that creates meaningful value for customers and the hospitality industry." | BBC
3. Roxanne Hamedi
"I’m offering Lord Sugar more than a business, I’m offering a brand with heart, momentum, and a clear path to scalable success. Browtasia was born from my own hair-loss journey, blending a decade of pharmacy expertise with clean, results-driven formulations that restores confidence from the root. The trust, engagement, and proven sales I’ve built show a real demand for honest, effective products created with intention. With a loyal customer base and a range rooted in integrity and innovation, I’m ready for growth, retail expansion, and global impact. Partnering with me means driving real transformation and shaping a lasting legacy in beauty and wellness." | BBC
4. Rothna Akhtar
"My business plan will revolutionise the cake and experience industry. It combines my love of baking and wellbeing by offering a calming, creative space where people can decorate cakes or craft their own flavours. It promotes wellness, making it a worthwhile investment. Nothing in life comes easy and I’m ready to take every necessary detour - because I believe if it doesn’t challenge you, it will never change you. I’ve got a solid plan and I’m not afraid to work hard. With Lord Sugar’s backing, we could build a fresh, inspiring brand that makes everyone’s life just that bit sweeter." | BBC