September 18, 2024
Creating a compelling pitch deck is crucial for any entrepreneur aiming to raise funds and grow their business. Here are six things to include in your pitch deck.
1. Background of the CEO/Presenter
Show how your expertise (from personal experience or deep industry knowledge) makes you fit to solve the problem. How did you discover the problem you aim to solve? For instance, “I have been in supply chain management for 10 years. I noticed the following problems with current solutions 1… 2… 3…”
2. The Problem
Identify the market issue potential buyers face. Emphasize with data the pain points and how existing solutions are inadequate. For example, “I have many streaming subscriptions but struggled to find a specific movie. Studies show 45% of consumers spend over 15 minutes searching for specific content across an average of 4 streaming subscriptions per household.” (Data is for illustrative purposes only.) For investors to care about your solution, first help them understand the problem.
3. The Solution
After establishing the problem, present your solution. Show (don’t tell) how your product or service directly addresses the issues. Use visuals such as images of an app or prototype. Mirror the problem slide to address resolutions to each pain point.
4. Business Model
Explain how you make money through subscription fees, product sales, or services. For example, “It costs $0.60 to manufacture the product, and we sell it for $15. With a repeat business model, replacement products are sold every other year.” If you’re still figuring out the pricing model, mention that you’re testing various models.
5. Traction and Growth
Showcase your milestones, such as customer acquisitions, partnerships, or sales growth. Present logos of current recognizable clients, funding received, or news and awards. Illustrate what you can accomplish with the desired funding. Don’t be humble about your ability to execute!
6. The Ask
Conclude with a clear funding request and how it will be used to hit your next milestones. “We’re seeking $1 million to expand our team and accelerate product development.” You should spend most of your time on this slide as investors will examine it in detail.
With this structure, your pitch deck can effectively communicate your goals and give investors the confidence to invest in your vision.
The information in this article is current as of the publishing date and is intended for informational purposes only. This article does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal, tax, or business advice. Any resources and organizations mentioned, unless an entity of or a partner of the state of Utah, are not formally endorsed by the Startup State Initiative or state of Utah.