Questions You Need to Answer in an Investment Pitch: How to Convince Investors Your Startup Is Worth Funding

Questions You Need to Answer in an Investment Pitch: How to Convince Investors Your Startup Is Worth Funding originally posted here

Questions You Need to Answer in an Investment Pitch: How to Convince Investors Your Startup Is Worth Funding

An investment pitch is a presentation given to potential investors to convince them to invest money in your startup. It can be daunting, but if you are well-prepared, you can make a great impression on potential investors and increase your chances of securing funding. This blog post will outline the key questions you need to answer to create a successful investment pitch. Keep these in mind as you put together your presentation, and you will be sure to impress.

The key questions I see are:

What problem are you solving?

What problem you are solving is perhaps the most critical question that you need to answer in your investment pitch. Potential investors want to know that your startup is solving a real problem that people care about. Be sure to spend some time articulating the problem that you are solving clearly and concisely. Explain how your product or service addresses this problem and why it is a better solution than what is currently available.

Who is your target market?

Another crucial question to answer in your investment pitch is who your target market is. Investors want to know that there is a large enough market for your product or service and that you have a well-defined target audience. Spend some time describing your ideal customer, and explain why they would be interested in your product or service.

What is your competitive landscape?

Investors will also want to know about the competitive landscape for your product or service. They need to know that you are aware of the competition and that you have a plan for how to differentiate your offering in the marketplace. Be sure to spend some time discussing your main competitors, and explain what makes your product or service unique.

Navigating the Waters – What questions do Investors ask?

Hi, I’m Stephanie Mckinney.  In this episode, we continue to demystify the jargon of investors by talking about the main questions investors will ask during a pitch. 

I chat again with Kim-Adele Randall as we discuss:

 – Understanding what questions to prepare for in a pitch 

– The importance of knowing what you need to get to each round 

– How to retain control initially whilst still fundraising 

Through this series, I will have aspiring guests and answer their questions so we learn together using real-life examples. 

What is your business model?

Your investment pitch should also include a discussion of your business model. Investors need to understand how you plan to generate revenue, and they will want to see that you have a sound strategy for scaling your business. Describe your business model, and explain how you plan to make money.

What is your go-to-market strategy?

You will need to discuss your go-to-market strategy in your investment pitch. How do you plan to get your product or service into the hands of your target customers? Be sure to include a detailed plan for reaching your target market, and explain how you will generate awareness for your business.

In their article for Forbes entitled Preparing Your Pitch: 10 Smart Questions To Expect From Investors YEC council post they also share 

“When you set out to pitch your idea to an investor, you’ll probably think through the most common questions that they’re likely to ask and prepare polished answers. Discerning investors are careful about where they put their money, so a well-prepared entrepreneur should be able to address any concerns the investors may have quickly.

However, sometimes, even the most thorough entrepreneur may encounter intelligent questions that they are never prepared to answer. These intelligent questions indicate investors who are thinking long term and who could be a priceless addition to your business. Below, ten members of the Young Entrepreneur Council share some of the smartest questions they’ve received from investors and why they were so thought-provoking.” Read the full article here 

All ten are insightful, thought-provoking and show a focus on longevity, and for me in particular, from their article, the standout questions are 

What if you run out of money?

What if you’re forced to stop?

What if something unexpected happens?

Why should I invest in you?

From the pitches, I have seen in the 100s, these questions trip people up the most. Knowing you have a contingency plan, understanding your burn rate, and your personal value to the business can be pivotal in your success.

If you can answer all these critical questions in your investment pitch, you will be well on your way to impressing potential investors and securing funding for your startup. Keep these tips in mind as you prepare for your presentation, and you will be sure to make a great impression! Thanks for reading

Do you have a female-founded startup that needs funding or you’re an investor interested in supporting female entrepreneurs, please contact us. We’d love to chat with you about how we can work together.

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