Anatomy of a startup (pitch)
Our objective for today is to discuss the various facets of a startup venture by way of the “buttons” that often get pushed during a startup pitch. Importantly, while a great pitch does not equal a great startup, a great startup has often been able to hit each of these buttons in a compelling way.
:: WHAT TO READ & WATCH ::
Read:
Touve, D. The startup pitch.
http://strtp.com/notes/funding/the-startup-pitch
Watch:
Chen, J. A warm embrace that saves lives. (video)
http://www.ted.com/talks/jane_chen_a_warm_embrace_that_saves_lives
Blank, S. (2013). What is a Startup?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ro0sJ6vnYSU
:: BE PREPARED TO DISCUSS ::
Using the M’s from the article as an organizing frame, consider the Pitch being made by Jane Chen in her TED presentation. And, from the perspective of someone who might provide financial support of some kind (e.g., investment or a grant) to Embrace, please be prepared to discuss the following:
Which “M” do you feel Ms. Chen communicated/explained best? Why?
Which “M” do you wish she had communicated/explained better? Why?
Which “M” do you wish she had communicated/explained, but failed to do so? Why?
:: BE PREPARED TO ALSO DISCUSS ::
Do you agree with or disagree with Mr. Blank’s definition of a Startup? How might this approach apply or not apply to commercialization efforts?
What “matters” about the various “M’s” discussed in the reading? For example, what makes a great Mission, or for great Mortals on a team?
How was data/evidence used in the Pitch? And how might data/evidence matter to the Venture?