On Deck Pitch
On Deck Pitch is an SBDC initiative designed to help entrepreneurs develop and refine their pitching skills and prepare to effectively present their businesses to potential investors or lenders.
Two applicants will be selected for each pitch event. On Deck Pitch will be held every last Wednesday of each month from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Presenters commit to 20-minute time slots consisting of 5 minutes to set up, 5-8 minutes to pitch, and 10 minutes for feedback.
Breakfast and networking start at 9:30 a.m.
On Deck Pitch offers an opportunity each month for entrepreneurs to present to potential angel investors. There is no cost to participate, and presenters will leave with actionable feedback from these angel investors and a video copy of the presentation.
*This is not an application/event/initiative for funding or a formal presentation to request investment.
Goals
- Community Engagement: Provide a safe, inclusive, and respectful space for entrepreneurs to pitch their business.
- Practical Experience: Create a pitch platform that simulates a real-life experience.
- Pitch Skills: Enhance the clarity, structure, and impact of business pitches.
- Build Confidence: Improve confidence in presenting and discussing their business.
- Funding Readiness: Prepare entrepreneurs to engage effectively with investors and or lenders.
- Feedback: Provide actionable feedback to refine pitches.
Structure
- Pitch Prep Workshops and Training: Attend workshops that cover key elements of a successful pitch, including storytelling, data presentation, and handling Q&A sessions.
- Pitch Practice: Practice pitches multiple times, often in front of SBDC advisors.
- Advising: Access to experienced advisors who offer confidential advice and guidance.
- Feedback Sessions: Opportunities to receive immediate detailed feedback from observers.
- Networking Opportunities: Connect with potential investors, community leaders, industry experts, and other entrepreneurs.
Components
- Pitch Deck Creation: Assistance with creating or refining a pitch deck, including design, content, and messaging.
- Storytelling Techniques: Training on how to craft a compelling narrative around the startup.
- Financials and Metrics: Guidance on presenting financial projections and key performance indicators.
- Handling Questions: Strategies for effectively responding to investor questions and objections.
Community Partners and Organizations Participation
Community partners and organizations are invited to attend our monthly On Deck Pitch events. The On Deck Pitch events offers an opportunity for our partners and organizations to directly connect with Polsky and SBDC local business owners, learn more about their business products, services, and capabilities, and share their organization’s purpose and resources.
When joining us, community partners and organizations will be allotted time at the end of each event to share any announcements, events, initiatives, and/or programs their respective organizations will be hosting.
Upcoming On Deck Pitch Events
On Deck Pitch is held every 4th Wednesday of the month from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. Two presenters will be chosen each month. Observers are welcome to register, watch the presentations, and provide constructive feedback.