
Pitch Guidelines

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Submission Deadline: Friday, Feb 13
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Confirmation Email: After submitting, you’ll receive a confirmation email outlining next steps.
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Allotted Time
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3 minutes per pitch
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Keep it focused and intentional – this is about clarity, not comprehensiveness.
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Note: We’ll need to cut you off at the timer to keep it fair for all other presenters.
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5 minutes for questions and feedback from the audience and/or judging panel.
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1 minute for transition/setup time.
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Start with a Strong Hook
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You have 30 seconds to capture attention. Lead with something memorable – a striking fact, story, or vision. Then clearly state your problem and why it matters now. This sets the stage for why your solution deserves attention.
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Focus Your Pitch (3-Minute Breakdown)
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Minute 1 – Problem & Solution:
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Briefly describe the pain point and why it matters now, then immediately show your solution. Focus on how it solves the problem better or differently than alternatives. One statistic, anecdote, or example is enough.
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Minute 2 – Market & Traction:
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Highlight the size of the opportunity and any traction – customers, partnerships, or metrics. If pre-launch, emphasize early validation, interest, or excitement.
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Minute 3 – Business Model, Ask & Vision:
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Quickly explain how you make money and reach customers. End with your ask (funding, support, or partnership) and a compelling vision that leaves people inspired and wanting to engage.
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Tell a Compelling Story
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Even with limited time, structure your pitch like a story: problem → solution → outcome → future. Avoid a “data dump” – your goal is to make investors want to talk more afterward, not to explain every slide.
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Practice and Time Yourself
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Rehearse your demo and ensure it fits within the allotted time frame. Practice pacing and smooth transitions between key points.
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Lead with Confidence, End with Clarity
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Maintain strong posture and pace – clarity over speed.
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Conclude with a concise recap sentence that reinforces your core message:
“We’re solving X, for Y, in Z way – and we’re raising to make it happen.”
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Have Fun
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Bring your passion. Pitch Night is about energy, storytelling, and conviction. The best pitches inspire as much as they inform – make your 3 minutes unforgettable! 🚀