With Demo Day less than a month away, our startups have begun constructing their presentations. Today, we welcomed Bill Cunningham of the Greater Cincinnati Venture Association to speak about presentation skills. Bill, also known as the “Pitch Doctor”, had some great advice for our companies. Here’s a rundown of Bill’s tips:
Know…
Your audience
- Know which investors will be there
- Understand the kinds of companies they typically invest in
- Identify which ones are worth your time
- Start talking to them before the big day
Your story
- Tell your story within the first minute of the presentation
- Get investors to understand and remember – “DO”
- Keep it simple!
Your value
- Use the words “what sets us apart is…”
- Tell investors about a problem that exists and how you’re solving it
Your competition
- “No one” is not true
- Do your research
- Talk about what you do that they can’t, but also what they do that you can’t…this builds credibility
Explain…
Your team
- Talk about the team members you have. Highlight all relevant activities.
- Talk about what positions/individuals you plan to add to your team and when
Your next steps
- Know your “Go to market” strategy
- Outline milestones: “If we get 30 customers by the end of the year, Xbrand will buy our product”
- End with a “Call to Action” for investors
Aesthetically, avoid busy slides with numbers and graphs…investors are only two numbers: revenue and profit! Work in 3’s. Remember to TELL your story verbally and show images that enhance your story simply and clearly.
Good luck!
