Tiny Explorers founder Hayley Hanigan receives investment from Sara Davies and Touker Suleyman on BBC’s Dragons’ Den

by Alex Langridge

alangridge@thekmgroup.co.uk

A mum-of-four has secured a £50,000 investment after pitching her baby equipment rental company on hit BBC show Dragons’ Den.

Entrepreneur Hayley Hanigan received interest from business moguls Sara Davies and Touker Suleyman who said she had filled a gap in the market with her “incredibly solid” idea.

Hayley started the business in 2022. Picture: BBC

Former Wilmington Grammar School pupil Hayley started her company Tiny Explorers in 2022 after experiencing the challenge of being a travelling parent and finding rental options for essential baby gear.

It has a range of strollers, car seats, travel cots and other items for hire to help provide families with flexible access to what they need.

Since its launch, the firm has seen more than £300,000 in revenue but despite its early success Hayley decided to seek investment by appearing on Dragons’ Den to help upscale her operations and expand.

Contestants go on the show not only to attract financial investment but also for the chance to partner up with business leaders and learn from their guidance.

Retail experts and dragons Sara Davies and Touker Suleyman were drawn to her “authentic, lived experience” and the demand for a reliable baby equipment rental service.

They both decided to invest £25,000 for a combined 20% equity stake in the Orpington-based business.

Hayley with her investors, Sara Davies and Touker Suleyman. Picture: Hayley Hanigan

Sara said: “As a fellow parent, I immediately connected with Hayley’s story and the practical need she is addressing.

“She has created a real solution for parents who want convenience, flexibility and an environmentally friendly alternative and I am excited to work with her to expand Tiny Explorers’ reach and help her navigate any growing pains along the way.”

Touker added: ”Hayley’s idea is incredibly solid. I have a few investments in the baby and nursery sector, as well as in the short-term property rental market, and see a consistent need for short-term baby equipment rentals for travelling families.

“Tiny Explorers is not only filling this gap but also bringing a much-needed sustainable approach to the market.”

The investment will allow Hayley to expand her workforce and create new job opportunities, particularly for mums who require flexible working hours.

She also wants to secure partnerships with travel brands like Airbnb to help expand Tiny Explorers’ reach and visibility among international visitors to the UK.

The judges were impressed with her pitch. Picture: BBC

Hayley who grew up in Eynsford, between Sevenoaks and Dartford, added: “When I entered the Den, I was more nervous about how I would come across on television than about pitching my business.

“I had watched hundreds of previous episodes in preparation and I knew I had to have my numbers clear. After the initial nerves cleared, I found myself really enjoying the experience.

“Securing investment from Sara and Touker is an incredible validation of my journey so far. Beyond the funding, having two brilliant mentors on board is invaluable.

“Running a business can be lonely and their advice will be crucial as I navigate Tiny Explorers’ next steps.

“With this support, I’ll be able to expand sustainably, and continue our mission to reduce waste by offering families a convenient rental option instead of buying single-use items.”