I was going to suggest the same thing about
Shark Tank. Now I'm gonna have to check out Dragon's Den.
I've had some mild success with funding and have to say that a business plan alone is rarely enough. You should have something of your own invested in the project other than time. Think of it like buying a house....The larger your down payment, the less risk for the bank handling your loan.
As woj said, VC's are more for taking it to the next level rather than building it from the ground up.
That being said.....I'm currently seeking 20 million for a mainstream project and willing to give up controlling interest in the company to get it. 10's of thousands has been invested into the business plan and R&D including building plans, cost analysis, market analysis, etc... I have the right media and business connections for a massive roll out as well.
If we build it, they will come.
Any parties interested in seeing what I have, who are actually in a position to invest, feel free to hit me up.