Writing a compelling pitch deck is crucial for securing funding. Whether you’re looking for a seed fund or going forward to your Series A round; your pitch deck can make or break your trajectory. There are certain guidelines to follow and how much content (too little or too much information) is critical to attract the attention of VCs. I have gathered essential information from legendary investors, VCs and industry experts.
Make it legible.
Kevin Hale, Partner at Y Combinator ,
Make it simple.
Make it obvious.
https://www.ycombinator.com/library/4T-how-to-design-a-better-pitch-deck
These three bullet points, shared by the renowned VC and accelerator Y Combinator, are invaluable. Kevin Hale suggests that during Prototype Day at Y Combinator, among 100 other companies, you would be fortunate if even one or two of your highlighted points are remembered. Therefore, it’s crucial to ensure your presentation is legible, with slides that can be easily read from anywhere in the room. They should be simple, avoiding a clutter of ideas and instead conveying a single, potent message. Lastly, they should be obvious, with any charts, images, or materials instantly understandable. You cannot expect the undivided attention of your audience; it’s your responsibility to ensure your message is received by all.
Clarity is key. If you can’t explain your business in a single sentence, it’s probably too complicated.
Peter Thiel, Partner at Founders Fund, Author of Zero to One: Notes on Startups
The legendary name Peter Thiel, probably the most renown investor in startup world is keen on clarity. He has written books on the matter, but the best example of his pitch deck preference can be seen in the pitch deck template he has shared with entrepreneurs.
The presentation deck spans just eight pages, excluding the contact information and financial model. It conveys a powerful message with three key quotes on the cover page, which clearly outline the problem and solution right from the start.
Create an Impact
All above points are crucial to convey your message in a clear way but the most import thing of all is making an impact to your audience, making sure they do remember you and your pitch. In order to do that don’t be shy to highlight your traction and differentiators. Make sure to include a bold statement or a gesture that will make you stand out. I have attended several accelerators and work with notable pitching coaches the key takeaway from those sessions were to being creative and bold and making sure you are remembered.
Use Visuals Strategically
You don’t need to be a visual expert. Be sure to focus on your content of pitch deck and don’t be shy to get professional help for getting the final design of your pitch deck and high quality visuals. Charts, product images and visual elements are good to support your message but can be overkill if used too much.
End on a Strong Note
End your pitch with a call to action, clearly communicate what are your expectations and how do you want to move forward whether it’s a follow-up meeting or a product demo or response on funding.