Tips to take your fundraising pitch from mediocre to memorable
As a founder of a start-up, you’re already an excellent storyteller. There is no surprise that you are capable of conveying your vision and trust your team with achieving it. The art of fundraising is not that different. Even though movies and TV shows are commonly found portraying the exciting side of ‘pitching’ it is imperative to understand that it isn’t just abstract talents of a genius, it requires commitment. Not to mention, your investor has already heard a million pitches on a day-to-day basis. How do you rise above the crowd and become memorable?
It is cliched, but practice indeed makes perfect
No two pitches will ever be the same. Each will evolve with every interaction you have. You will look at things differently every time you bounce your ideas off someone, take feedback, and make space for constant learning. What remains constant is your intent and vision. Practicing your story and living it personally is the scale against which your success will be measured. Your pitch must be as dynamic as your vision for your company.
Humanity means business
One of the most common roadblocks one faces in any meeting is getting stuck in the middle of a thought. But the trick here is to acknowledge it. Your communication is more impactful when you are at your most human self. On the other hand, if one of your investors asks you a question to which you don’t have a clear answer, do take time for an internal audit to circle back to it without losing momentum.
Make the second act your final act
Once you’ve addressed the problem you want to solve, it shouldn’t take too long for your audience to connect the dots that your product or service is the natural solution to it. Put it simply but extensively what your product is and its features. Elaborate what distinguishes it from anything they’ve ever experienced before. Describe functionalities in words if you don’t have a working model yet. If you do, let them get a taste of what is there and what is possible if they join you in your journey. 65% of the human species is visually inclined when learning which works beautifully in your favour. Showing it off is a markedly powerful move, which not only exemplifies dedication but also your readiness to jump into action. However, do not forget to etch a detailed roadmap of the stages of development you’re looking for your product and your company, inclusive of your key target users.
Structure your arc
Read the room and make it want to go on a quest with you. Lay it out for them to interact with so you make sure that when you make a call back, they are right there with you. Also, laud your team and their faith in the mission, which helps your investors in understanding your assets more than the products. A VC can be your company’s best friend, allow them to be. Talk and give context instead of preach and teach. Like a tight set of 20 minutes by a stand-up comedian, your pitch should leave a mark in their minds long after your time over.
You are the hero of the story
Do not undermine your role in the whole ordeal, the protagonist is you, and so is your team. Your team is a manifestation of your drive and passion. Make sure you highlight their skill sets and the processes you follow to nurture them. At the end of the day, your investors will only put their trust in you on the basis of your capability as a leader with a strong team.
The best stories have both — familiarity and an element of surprise. Your pitch deck is a living thing. Keep it breathing by continuously refreshing it with updates. Keep the aesthetics close to your brand personality yet professional. Whatever the size of your company, do make sure you mention industry traction. When you piece the picture together, with your own creative liberty, you are bound to create something extraordinary.
