The 10 Questions
As a business woman, I like things simple and straightforward. As a scientist, I like systems and analysis. While coaching hundreds of entrepreneurs, it became increasingly clear that I could develop a coaching process that was both simple and systematic, an approach that could be presented quickly but still act as a practical guide for assessing the value proposition and indicating where more work is required.
The result:
The 10 Questions That Every Investor Pitch Should Answer
Question | Associated Business Issues |
|---|---|
| 1. Why should I, the investor, care about what you do? | Market size and market pain |
| 2. What do you do (in language I can understand)? | Secret sauce, benefits |
| 3. Why are you better? | Competitive advantage |
| 4. How will you stay that way? | IP status and strategy |
| 5. Is it real or is it vaporware? | Tech status and strategy |
| 6. How will you make money? | Business model |
| 7. How much will you make? | Financial projections |
| 8. Why are you the right guys? | Team |
9. How much time and... | Development plan and ask |
Of course, simple does not mean easy: each question represents a great deal of business research and strategic thinking that must be done to build a sustainably successful business. If you'd like to learn a bit more of the nuance associated with answering these questions, as well as get tips on developing and delivering your pitch, please sign up at right for my free series of 2-minute videos that covers the basics of each.
If you're looking for more in-depth discussion, be sure to attend the free two-part series of one-hour "Perfect Pitch" webinars I will be holding on March 12 and 14, 2012 - you can sign up at "Get Funded: Free Webinars."
And if you want coaching and intensive training, keep your eyes open for news of my upcoming 6 Week Get Funded Workshop!
Best of luck and success with your venture!
Linda S. Plano, PhD