Rejecting Dragons is Ezi work for this entrepreneurial dad

not every day you can say ‘no’ to investment from business titans, but that’s exactly what Bob did...

A Chamber member and former Entrepreneur Foundation graduate withstood the Dragons’ fire for two hours before turning his back on competing offers from two of the Den’s giants.

Bob Gokani, founder of EziDrops, rejected bids from Peter Jones and Touker Suleyman when he took his eye and ear applicators on to the popular BBC show.

The former software professional who started his company after experiencing hayfever on hitting 50, had offered the Dragons five per cent of his business for £25,000, but with Peter looking to license his products and Touker suggesting creating his own ear and eye drops, Bob was not persuaded.

He said: “Ultimately, what they were offering wasn’t aligned with the vision I had for the brand or the products. And then there was the equity they were looking for. So, my decision to walk away was two-fold.”

The dad of two has no regrets and in the months since filming, he has seen his products move from behind the counter in Boots to being on display on the shelves, providing a much higher profile.

The applicators are also available through online and independent retailers, with American outlet Walgreens stocking the ear device.

Bob is grateful for the support he received from the Entrepreneur Foundation, an initiative to provide businesses with professional help.

“The scheme was launched during COVID-19 and as soon as I heard about it, I joined. There were quality presentations every two weeks, and training courses providing an overview of topics like IP, employment, HR issues, all different sides of running a business.

“And these courses were delivered by highly reputable organisations, experts in their field, giving their time to educate us. I am immensely grateful to have that as I had no previous experience in business.”

Having stepped into the Dragons’ Den, he has some solid advice for anyone looking to follow in his footsteps.

“Being on the show does have a huge impact on your life. On the day, you can be in front of the Dragons for two hours, being challenged.

“Make sure all your paperwork is in order. They will scrutinize everything and every aspect of your business. Have good knowledge of your business because they are going to be throwing a lot of curveballs.

“Finally, make sure you have got good family support because ultimately, everyone gets affected. With the way social media is, you have to be mindful of the impact it could have on your family.

“But, the BBC has a great support team and the experience was invaluable.”

Chamber Chairman Jeremy Bishop commented: “I am delighted to see how far Bob has come. He was a very committed member of the first Entrepreneur Foundation cohort, and he has gone on to demonstrate what can be done with the right knowledge and support.

“Facing up to the Dragons must have been challenging, but he presented really well and wasn’t swayed by the offers.”