This Week in Startups E1068 AMA: NEA’s Ben Narasin takes questions from founders: most important content in a pitch deck, COVID’s impact on dealmaking, traits he looks for in founders & more!
May 30, 2020
Ben Narasin, a Venture Partner at NEA with 25 years of entrepreneurial experience, dives into the nitty-gritty of startup funding. He shares what makes a compelling pitch deck and the key traits he seeks in founders. Narasin discusses how COVID-19 reshaped deal-making and the importance of personal connections in investments. Entrepreneurs are advised on navigating financial struggles, especially in the SaaS realm, and he emphasizes the critical need for clarity in pitching. His insights are a goldmine for aspiring founders and investors alike.
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Pitch Deck Essentials
- Structure pitch decks like a journalist's report: who, what, when, where, why, and how much.
- Prioritize key information upfront; don't bury the lead on page 27.
Pitching Strategy
- Start your pitch with a concise summary slide highlighting key achievements and metrics.
- If you have impressive revenue numbers, reveal them early to grab attention.
Evaluating Pitches
- Approach pitches with open-mindedness; assume the entrepreneur presents the best version of their startup.
- Focus on understanding the entrepreneur's vision and story.
