How to Tailor Your Pitch to Appeal to Angel Investors and Secure the Funding You Need.
When it comes to securing funding for your startup, it's important to understand the different types of investors and how to tailor your pitch deck to their specific needs and expectations.
While venture capital firms and institutional investors are typically focused on metrics like revenue, cash burn, overall valuations, and growth potential, angel investors are often more interested in the people behind the business and the unique value proposition it offers.
For Angel investors and "mom and pop" investors, the decision to (or not to) invest in a business is always personal and emotional.
This is a good thing since these types of investors are often the first source of funding for any business looking to enter any market.
Believe it or not, Angel investors are the backbone of our overall startup ecosystem.
According to the Center for Venture Research at the University of New Hampshire, which tracks angel investing activity in the United States, approximately 60,000 companies receive angel investment annually. The total amount of angel investments in the U.S. in 2020 was $25.8 billion, which is a significant increase from the $6.7 billion invested a decade earlier in 2010.
It is, therefore, super important that as an entrepreneur, you know how to speak the language of the down-the-street, "we went to school together" type of investor.
That being said, here are a few tips to make your pitch deck more appealing to angel investors:
Focus on the problem you're solving and why it matters
Angel investors are often drawn to startups that are solving real-world problems in innovative ways. In your pitch deck, be sure to clearly articulate the problem you're addressing and why it matters. Demonstrate that you have a deep understanding of the market and the customer pain points you're addressing.
Highlight your team's expertise and experience
Angel investors often invest in people as much as they invest in products or ideas. Make sure your pitch deck includes a section that highlights the expertise and experience of your team members. Show that you have a deep understanding of your industry and that your team is uniquely qualified to execute on your vision.
Emphasize your unique value proposition
Angel investors are looking for startups that have a clear and compelling value proposition that sets them apart from competitors. In your pitch deck, be sure to clearly articulate what makes your product or service unique and why it's better than what's currently available on the market.
Tell the investor what your exit plan is
Angel investors typically invest with the goal of making a return on their investment, so it's important to discuss your exit plan in your pitch deck. Be prepared to discuss how you plan to exit the business, whether through an acquisition or an initial public offering (IPO).
Keep it simple and concise
Angel investors are busy and often receive dozens of pitches every day. To make your pitch deck stand out, keep it simple, concise, and easy to understand. Use clear, straightforward language and avoid jargon or technical terms that might confuse or overwhelm your audience.
Be prepared to answer questions and engage in dialogue
Unlike venture capital firms or institutional investors, angel investors often invest in startups based on a personal connection or relationship with the founders. Be prepared to engage in a dialogue and answer questions about your business, your team, and your vision. Show that you're open to feedback and willing to collaborate with investors to achieve your goals.
By following these tips, you can create a pitch deck that's more appealing to angel investors and increases your chances of securing the funding you need to take your startup to the next level.
