Let’s embark on a journey to master the art of pitching investors! You've already spent time reaching out and getting the meeting. Now, it's time to make sure you do everything possible to close the deal. Think of this like a roadmap.

1. Map Out Your Audience

Before you hit the road, know where you’re going. Research your potential investors thoroughly. Learn their investment history, interests, and what types of startups they’ve backed. Tailor your pitch to fit their investment goals and preferences.

2. Start with a Story

Every compelling journey starts with a compelling story. Begin your pitch by sharing the story behind your startup. Please explain the problem you’re solving and why it matters. Use real-life examples to make it relatable and engaging. Stories are the fuel that keeps your audience hooked.

3. Define the Destination

Map out the problem your startup addresses. Use data and real-world examples to illustrate the magnitude of the problem. Then, present your solution and explain why it’s unique and better than existing alternatives. Show how your solution effectively tackles the problem.

4. Highlight the Market

Investors want to see a promising destination. Provide data on your target market size, growth potential, and trends. Demonstrate a strong demand for your solution and that your startup can capture a significant market share.

5. Plan Your Route

Your business model is your roadmap. Explain how your startup plans to make money. Discuss your revenue streams, pricing strategy, and sales approach. Show that you understand your unit economics and have a clear path to profitability.

6. Introduce Your Travel Companions

Investors invest in people as much as they invest in ideas. Highlight your team’s strengths and expertise. Show that you have a diverse and capable team ready to execute your vision. Mention any notable achievements or experiences that add credibility to your team.

7. Show the Journey So Far

Traction is your progress marker. Show that you’ve made significant progress and that there’s momentum behind your startup. User growth, revenue, partnerships, or other relevant metrics do the trick. Traction proves that your startup has potential and is moving in the right direction.

8. Prepare for Pit Stops

Investors will have questions. Be prepared to answer them confidently and thoroughly. Anticipate common questions about your competition, market risks, financial projections, and long-term vision. Have detailed answers ready. And make sure you leave time! We like to use the 80/20 rule: Spend 20% of the time pitching and 80% of the time discussing. Unfortunately, too many founders do it the other way around.

9. Practice the Drive

A great pitch requires practice. Rehearse your pitch multiple times. Practice in front of friends, family, and mentors. Get feedback and refine your presentation. The more you practice, the more confident and polished you’ll be when pitching to investors.

10. Follow Up on the Journey

After the pitch, follow up with the investors. Send a thank-you email, address any questions they had, and provide any additional information they requested. Professional follow-up shows that you’re serious and organized.

Remember, every pitch is a learning opportunity. Even if you don’t secure funding immediately, don’t be discouraged. Use your feedback to refine your pitch for the next opportunity. Each pitch gets you closer to your goal. Keep pushing forward, believe in your vision, and know you’re on an incredible journey.

Did you know we have open pitch practices? That's right! Every second Friday. Check the events calendar here: https://next.startups.com/events