How to Pitch a Great Idea by Debbie Ouellet (SEA alumnus)
Get out and meet influential people. It's often one of the toughest things for entrepreneurs to warm up to, but over time, reaps the most rewards. You’d be surprised at some of the connections you'll make…connections that can lead to a face-to-face with a decision-maker.
People invest in you as much as they do your idea. Find yourself a champion or two who can introduce you to potential distributors or investors through networking or one-to-one meetings. Let them see your enthusiasm and commitment.
Having said that; you'll need to have a polished "elevator" pitch where you can explain the key benefits of your idea in about 60 seconds.
As for your written documents, I usually suggest:
A quick leave behind or "warm up" summary of your idea. It's usually one page. (Think of this like a sell-sheet, similar to an Executive Summary in a business plan...written so that it highlights the benefits to the partner, distributor or investor.) Include a second page that talks about you and your credentials. You’ll use these as the preamble to getting that all important face-to-face meeting.
Your full blown business proposal/plan. Present this to your serious prospects (usually at or after the first face-to-face). Remember that the point of it is to show them:
- the feasibility of your idea
- how they can make money with it
- why you’re the perfect one to help them do it
- how you plan to make it happen
- demonstrated profitability and growth