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.
13. Sarah Lynn and James White
In a first for The Apprentice, there were joint winners in 2017 after Lord Sugar was unable to choose between Sarah Lynn and James White. Sarah used the investment for her personalised sweet business, while James' winning idea was an IT and infrastructure recruitment business. Photo: BBC
14. Sian Gabbidon
2018 winner Sian Gabbidon won investment in her swimwear and fashion business, Sian Marie Fashion. Photo: BBC
15. Carina Lepore
Baking entrepreneur Carina Lepore was crowned season 15 champion of The Apprentice. The £250,000 investment helped her open four branches of her Dough Artisan Bakehouse. Photo: BBC
16. Harpreet Kaur
Harpreet Kaur became the first winner of The Apprentice after an enforced break due to the global pandemic. She used the investment to build her dessert shop Barni's. Photo: BBC