How to Get the Most Value Out of a Startup Pitch Event
A startup pitch event is more than just your 5-minute spotlight—it’s a chance to build relationships, validate your idea, and open funding conversations. Yet many founders show up unprepared or only focus on the pitch.
🎯 Before the Event:
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Set Goals: Are you looking for funding, partnerships, media exposure, or feedback? Tailor your approach accordingly.
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Research Attendees: Know which investors are attending and what they’ve funded. Prepare customized intros.
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Prep Materials: Your deck, one-pager, and live demo must be crisp. Have physical copies and QR codes.
📣 During the Event:
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Stand Out: Make eye contact, tell a concise story, and focus on your traction and ask.
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Engage: Attend other pitches and ask thoughtful questions to get noticed.
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Document: Record feedback and who you met—don’t rely on memory.
🔁 After the Event:
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Follow Up Fast: Within 24–48 hours, send personalized emails referencing your convo.
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Provide Materials: Include your deck, team intro, and custom note about their investment focus.
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Join Online Communities: Many pitch events offer Slack/LinkedIn groups—use them.
Pro Tip:
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Bring a teammate focused on gathering leads while you pitch.
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Use tools like Clay to enrich contacts after the event.
Further Reading: