What VCs Actually Want in a Pitch Deck?

The fastest way to lose investor interest? A pitch deck full of fluff.

Founders often believe they need to over-explain, dazzle with jargon, or hype up their "potential." But venture capitalists (VCs) are busy and results-driven—they want facts, not fantasies.

Here’s how to craft a deck that actually works:

1. Simple Problem Statement:

Be clear about the pain point you’re solving. Use numbers to give investors a tangible sense of the issue.

• ? “Companies waste 4 hours per week scheduling meetings”
• ? “Online stores lose $50K yearly to fraud”
• ? “Restaurants throw away 30% of fresh produce”
• ? “HR teams spend 6 hours per hire on paperwork”

Why it works: Clear pain points make it easier for investors to understand the market opportunity.

2. Direct Solution Language:

Describe your solution in simple, understandable terms.

• ? “We send AI emails to schedule meetings”
• ? “Our software spots fake transactions in 2 seconds”
• ? “Our app connects restaurants with local food banks”
• ? “Our form builder cuts paperwork to 10 minutes”

Why it works: VCs aren’t experts in every industry—your solution should make sense to anyone.

3. Real Metrics That Matter:

Show evidence of traction with key performance indicators.

• ? “Processing 10,000 transactions/month”
• ? “40% margins on each sale”
• ? “Growing 20% week over week”
• ? “90% customer retention after 6 months”

Why it works: Numbers don’t lie. Metrics validate your business model.

4. Clear Revenue Model:

Investors need to know how you make money.

• ? “Charge $299/month per store”
• ? “Take 2% of each transaction”
• ? “Businesses pay $50 per user”
• ? “Annual contracts at $24K each”

Why it works: Simple pricing models make financial forecasting easier.

5. Actual Customer Evidence:

Show that people already value your product.

• ? “50 paying customers”
• ? “3 enterprise contracts signed”
• ? “Pilots with Nike and Adidas”
• ? “$50K monthly recurring revenue”

Why it works: Proof trumps promises every time.

What Actually Works?

• Start with real customer insights, not just assumptions.
• Show traction through metrics, not vague potential.
• Simplify the narrative—your deck isn’t a novel.

Remember: Investors want to see that you understand the problem, have a clear solution, and are already gaining momentum. Stick to the essentials, and your pitch will stand out.