The Pitch

Probably the single most important tool that a company has when it comes to getting the word out about their product is the pitch. Whether it's a 2 minute elevator pitch or a 20 minute Shark Tank presentation, you have to nail this.

Here are 12 slides that include everything that must be addressed if you expect people to open their checkbooks and give you their money:

• Summary Slide: Bottom line up front…you need to hook the investor so they want to hear more
  • Quick Elevator Pitch
  • Summary of the “Ask”:  How much? By When? Debt or Equity
  • Use of Funds: Top 3 Uses 
  • Summary of Current Capital Structure: Who owns your business today what % do they own, and how much money has been put in to date

• Problem
• Solution
• Market Size
• Competition
• Business Model
• Marketing and Distribution Strategy
• Traction
• Team
• Financials
• Exit Strategy
• Ask