EXCLUSIVE: 'Blue Collar Backers' is a new kind of business show combining cash and sweat

Discovery Channel is in production on a new TV series, "Blue Collar Backers," Business Insider has learned exclusively.

It features a group of millionaire investors who put both cash and sweat equity into new businesses.

These sharks aren't afraid to face a competitive market for business investments and loans with both their checkbooks and by rolling up their sleeves and getting grimy. Old-school, tried-and-true business techniques meet today's marketplace.

On each episode of "Blue Collar Backers," which premieres May 18 at 10 p.m. ET, the panel of successful businesspeople across various fields and trades will share the lessons they've learned over their careers with budding entrepreneurs. They'll then provide the funds, time, and hard work to help make businesses a success - no matter how messy it gets.

Leftfield Pictures, the production company behind "Pawn Stars," is producing the show for Discovery Channel.

Meet the stars of "Blue Collar Backers":