Seeking funding and financial support from angel investors takes work. Those who succeed understand how the capital obtained can transform the startup idea into a thriving business. But it’s easier said than done. There are many obstacles in the path.
Eventually, startup founders who craft the perfect pitch deck and know the art of presenting their complex startup journey to angel investors in simple and lucid language win the game.
Pitch Deck: The Foundation
While preparing to go through the fundraising process, always appreciate the power of what a simple pitch deck can do for your startup. A pitch deck lets you showcase your startup’s vision, mission and plans to investors in a structured and concise way, which can resonate with them better.
However, to woo investors, make your pitch deck brief and simple. Keep your pitch deck short, concise, and well-explained while ensuring you follow all guidance necessary for crafting the pitch deck structure.
Here’s what an ideal pitch deck looks like:
For your help, here are some of the best pitch deck structures to inspire and motivate you!
If you’re wondering what to include in a pitch deck, the subsequent paragraphs will help you understand it. We’ve provided all the headings and sections your pitch deck should cover here.
Introduction
Start with an exciting statement to captivate the attention of the investors. Remember that if your pitch deck fails to grab the attention of investors in the first 20 seconds, it’s hard to imagine them shortlisting your startup for funding. So, the introductory part of your pitch still forms the core of key elements of a pitch deck.
Explain the Problem
Startups are different. They work differently than other business models. As a startup owner, you must ensure you’re working on customers’ pain points. Starting a business and running a franchise doesn’t make you a startup. Besides highlighting the problem, you must describe how your startup addresses customer concerns.
Put Forward Your Solution
In your pitch deck, you have to come forward with a solution. Merely highlighting the pain points of customers won’t suffice for investors. You must explain your startup’s innovative solution to the target audience and how the solution will likely impact them for good or better.
Market Opportunity
Provide a thorough market analysis. Demonstrate the size of the market, its growth potential, and the competitive landscape. While explaining the market, you must briefly hint at how your startup works differently than the competitors.
Business Model
Outline your revenue model. A lot depends upon your presentation skills and how you communicate your ideas to them. There is no easy answer to how to present a pitch deck to investors. However, making appropriate body language and eye contact is highly recommended.
Traction
Showcase your startup’s progress. Highlight key milestones, user adoption rates, partnerships, and notable achievements.
Financial Projections
Now, we’ve come to the most crucial segment—financial projection. Present your financial forecasts, including revenue projections, expenses, and break-even points. Investors are passionate about numbers; be clear about your expected profits and upcoming financial goals.
Team
Last but not least, pay attention to the importance of the team with which you aspire to touch the pinnacle of success. In the pitch deck, you must discuss your team’s strengths and roles within the company.
Funding Queries
Clearly state your funding requirements. Specify how much capital you seek, the equity you offer, and how you intend to use the funds.
What to Include in a Pitch Deck: The Essentials
Creating the best pitch deck structure goes hand-in-hand with knowing what to include. If you’re wondering how to prepare a pitch deck, remember it’s not rocket science. Everyone has to start from somewhere. Keep trying and take the help of your mentor and your close friends to understand whether your pitch deck makes sense.
Here are some additional tips on essential elements:
Make Your Pitch Deck Visually Appealing: Incorporate visuals like images, charts, and graphs to make your pitch more engaging and impactful. However, try to add only a few things to your pitch deck. Otherwise, it will make your pitch deck unprofessional.
Storytelling: From page one of your pitch deck, you have to craft a compelling narrative that connects emotionally with your audience. Use anecdotes or success stories to illustrate your startup’s journey and future goals.
Simplicity: Keep slides concise and avoid industry-used jargon. Investors should easily understand your business without getting lost in technical details.
Competitive Advantage: Communicate your unique selling points. What sets your startup apart from competitors?
Pitch Deck: Presentation Tips and Techniques
Preparing a stellar pitch deck is just one part of the equation. To truly make an impact, you must also master the art of presentation:
Practice, Practice, Practice: Rehearse your pitch until you can deliver it confidently and smoothly. Anticipate questions and objections.
Tell Your Story: Don’t just recite slides. Weave a story that resonates with investors, drawing them into your vision.
Be Authentic: Investors invest in founders as much as they do in ideas. Be genuine and passionate about your startup.
How to Prepare a Pitch Deck: A Step-by-Step Guide
Understand Your Audience: Tailor your pitch deck to your target investors’ interests and expectations.
Research and Data: Gather comprehensive data to support your claims and projections. It demonstrates your commitment and knowledge.
Design Matters: Your startup pitch deck structure should include all necessary points and subheadings with necessary facts and figures, wherever required. It should look good and exciting. An attractive and well-designed pitch deck structure always intrigues the attention of investors.
In Conclusion
The startup pitch deck structure is your blueprint for securing the financial support that can propel your vision to new heights. By understanding what to include, focusing on key elements, perfecting your presentation skills, and meticulous preparation, you can increase your chances of successfully fundraising from angel investors.
