The first 3 critical slides of an effective pitch to a financier

It is important that financiers (investors or lenders) understand early on what you are asking of them. Do not wait until the end of your presentation to share that information. People listen differently and more constructively when they know what they are being asked to do. The following is an effective way of organizing your slides:

• Slide 1: A brief introduction to your company or project.

• Slide 2: The investment or lending highlights. (What’s in it for the financier?)

• Slide 3: Details about what you are asking of the financier.

Your first presentation should be no longer than about 20 minutes, or 10 to 15 slides. However, more slides can be put in the appendix for the financier’s later perusal.

For more information on how to win over financiers and negotiate the financing terms you want, see The Decision-Maker’s Guide to Long-Term Financing – available here.