A pitch deck is a crucial tool for any entrepreneur looking to secure funding for their startup. A standout deck can make all the difference when it comes to getting noticed by investors and accelerators like 500 Startups. This template, created from the guide "Pitch Perfect: How to Make a Standout Pitch Deck for 500 Startups," will help increase your chances of success by outlining key elements to include and strategies for making a professional, engaging pitch. Follow these tips to create a pitch deck that will impress investors and get your startup off the ground.
This slide should include your company's logo, as well as a brief, concise pitch that explains what your company does and why it's unique. Keep it simple and to the point - you only have a few seconds to grab the attention of your audience.
On this slide, you'll want to clearly and concisely outline the problem that your product or service is solving. Be specific and provide examples to illustrate the pain points that your target market is experiencing.
Now that you've clearly defined the problem, it's time to introduce your solution. Explain how your product or service addresses the problem and provides value to your customers. Be sure to emphasize the unique features and benefits of your solution.
This slide should provide a high-level overview of how your product or service works. Keep it simple and avoid using technical jargon. The goal is to give your audience a clear understanding of the value your solution provides, not to overwhelm them with details.
Traction is key to demonstrating the potential success of your company. This slide should showcase any progress you've made to date, including any partnerships, customers, or revenue you've generated. If you haven't yet achieved any traction, it's okay to say so - just be sure to explain your plan for achieving it.
On this slide, you'll want to explain how your business generates revenue. Whether it's through subscriptions, one-time purchases, or advertising, be sure to clearly outline your pricing model and any potential revenue streams.
It's important to acknowledge that you're not the only company in your space. On this slide, you should outline your key competitors and explain how your solution is different and better. Be honest and transparent, but be sure to emphasize the unique value that your solution provides.
This slide should provide context for the size and potential of your target market. Use data and research to demonstrate the demand for your product or service and the potential for growth.
This slide should showcase any milestones or accomplishments that you've achieved to date, such as product launches, partnerships, or funding rounds. This helps to demonstrate your progress and momentum as a company.
Last but not least, this slide should introduce the key members of your team. Be sure to include a brief bio for each team member, highlighting their relevant experience and skills. This helps to build trust and credibility with your audience.
500 Startups is a combination of an accelerator and a seed fund. They offer a twice-annual accelerator program that includes funding, hands-on training, office hours, mentorship, bootcamps, and the resources necessary to grow a startup. They make seed-stage investments ranging from $25,000 to $250,000 and invest in startups in two ways: by participating in their seed rounds and investing in companies that complete the accelerator program.
They have invested in more than 2,400 companies, including Canva, Visual.ly, Udemy, RidePal, Little Eye Lambs, and Eat App.
500 Startups is a venture capital firm that invests in early-stage technology startups. They focus on internet-based distribution models and look for companies with launched products that have demonstrated validation, traction, and simple revenue models.
Some of their areas of interest include consumer e-commerce, SMB productivity, mobile and tablet-based platforms, payments and financial services, "family tech" and education, international and cross-border startups, and language and translation.
Being accepted into the 500 Startups accelerator program can be a major validation for your business. As a 500 Global company, 500 Startups has a network of investors that you can tap into when you are ready to raise funding. The standard deal for the accelerator program includes a $150,000 investment in your company in exchange for a 6% stake. There is a fee of $37,500 to participate in the program, but this can be deducted from the investment amount.
You can check how to apply to 500 startups and other accelerators here.
If you need help with your business presentation, feel free to reach out to us. We'd be happy to help with the content and design. You can just book a call with our pitch deck experts, and we'll get you sorted out.
