Inspired by the American original hosted by Donald Trump before he entered politics, The Apprentice first reached British television screens in 2005.
British business magnate Alan Sugar (now Lord Sugar) has helmed the programme since the start, originally offering the winner a job with a six-figure salary. In later series he has investing £250,000 in the successful candidate’s business plan.
It started life on BBC Two but quickly moved to BBC One after pulling in impressive viewing figures.
This year’s series kicks off on Thursday, January 30, with 18 candidates hoping to be the last entrepreneur standing – joining this prestigious roll call of previous Apprentice winners.
9. Leah Totton
An ethical cosmetics business idea won Leah Totton The Apprentice in 2013. Since scooping the £250,000 investment she has set up several branches of her Dr Leah Clinics. Photo: BBC
10. Mark Wright
Digital marketing guru Mark Wright won the 10th season of The Apprentice. He used Lord Sugar's cash to build his digital marketing agency Climb Online, later selling up for a hefty £10million. Photo: BBC
11. Joseph Valente
A plumbing company called ImpraGas was the business idea that saw Joseph Valente being hired by Lord Sugar in 2015. He's since set up a company to coach small companies. Photo: BBC
12. Alana Spencer
The first Welsh winner of The Apprentice, Alana Spencer won investment in her luxury cake business, Ridiculously Rich by Alana. She continues to run the company, offering franchaises to wannabe cake makers. Photo: BBC