When you're planning what to put into your startup pitch deck, there's one question you should always ask yourself ..is the slide that I'm thinking of adding going to add value? Many dynamics go into creating a successful pitch deck, but in this post, we want to focus on your slides and, specifically, the number of slides.
The 10/20/30 rule is one of the best rules when it comes to pitching deck presentations. As this rule stands, you should come up with ten slides, your overall presentation should extend at most 20 minutes, and your font size should be at least 30 points. Focus on meeting those numbers to guide your overall pitch deck presentation.
Company information
The first slide of your pitch deck should include your company's name and contact information, along with a brand logo. This slide should already speak to the company culture you are trying to establish.
If you begin your presentation with this slide, you'll want to start with a bang. Think about the first impression you want to make on your audience, and try to make that impression with this slide.
The problem
In the second slide, identify your target market's problems and how your company aims to solve those problems. If your business idea doesn't solve an actual problem, what's the point?
Start with storytelling from the very beginning. It's even better if you have a story about this problem. You can also start with this slide and tell your audience about your problem. Use it to hook your audience.
The solution
In the previous slide, you identified problems in your market research. Now it is time to present clear and concise solutions for those problems. Be sure to include information on how your market will use the product or service and how it will solve the above mentioned problems.
Market size
When seeking funding from investors, you must consider the market size you're trying to penetrate.
Make sure the information you have on your target market and the current spending habits of consumers are up-to-date. This will allow investors to gauge the relevance of your startup, as well as its potential market size.
Competition
It is essential to include a competitor slide in your deck. A competitor slide addresses the competition startups face in their market. It gives you a chance to tell people about your business, what you do, and what sets you apart from other entrepreneurs. After you have identified your competitors, consider what problem they are trying to solve and explain why your startup will be able to outperform theirs.
Business model
In this slide, Tell your investors how you'll make money. This is also where you can explain how they will see a financial return on their investment.
Tell them who your clients are, what value they'll receive from your product or service, how the money flows, and where you see profitability in your business.
Traction
The main focus of this slide is on your company's growth, including revenue, prospects, and customers.
Hockey stick growth charts, which denote rapid and sustained growth, are commonly included in the Traction slide. Other information that should be included in the Traction slide is Early customers, product demos, PR and press, testimonials, and progress on product development are all great ways to promote your startup.
Team
A good team is essential to any successful company. Your core team members are listed here. Potential investors also want to see what drives each individual in the team and what makes them unique because these qualities will help them know this project through to success.
Marketing Plan
This part of your pitch deck is vital because it explains how you plan to capture your target market for revenue. Investors will want to trust your promises here, so these need to be reasonable and achievable.
Fundraising
Conclude your presentation by telling your investors how much funding you need from them in the final slide. Also, let them know how you plan to use the money you request. By justifying your request, you will build trust in what you are asking for and increase the chances that your request will be taken seriously. Entrepreneurs often forget to end their pitch with a clear "why,"—which gives investors a strong sense of urgency and motivates them to invest.
A pitch deck is a vital tool for startup founders, The key is to leave the details out of the slides themselves. Instead, use each slide as an opportunity to create intrigue. Your goals at the end are to inform your audience of your business and gain their confidence in your ability to execute your vision.
