In this episode of Ventures, I (https://linkedin.com/in/wclittle) discuss early stage startup pitch decks and what VCs/angels really want to hear when founders ask for equity financing. I talk about how the culture around the traditional deck has not been as helpful as it could be to clarify why traction (and forecasts of traction) are - in my opinion - the most important aspect of the initial pitch process that warrants deeper diligence.  

You can watch this episode below or listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts (search for “Ventures”).

0:03 - Tee-up for the episode, screencast, motivation

0:45 - Background of the pre-seed vs. seed pitch deck article → https://www.startuprocket.com/articles/investor-pitch-deck-and-communication-strategies-pre-seed-and-seed 

2:08 -  What investors really want to hear (traction, forecasts, and that you are the right team to do it)

3:30 - A better way to train entrepreneurs

4:14 - What is traction, really? Example from Uber’s pre-seed pitch