How to Present Technology in a Pitch Deck

At Aleph One, we work with startup founders to build and scale their custom products. As part of our business, we speak to dozens of quality startups weekly who come to us with pitch decks detailing their product and business model.

Over time, it’s become easy to recognize what works and what doesn’t in getting tech products funded. Our CEO, Stanislav Synko, shared what he considers to be best practices when presenting your technology in a pitch deck. 

Things to Include in Your Technology Pitch Deck 

Your Technical Co-Founder or CTO Setup

Not every startup requires a Chief Technology Officer (CTO). A non-tech startup, for example, can get by by using technologies that drive business growth and scalability. However, hiring a CTO means having someone on your team with extensive industry knowledge and experience who, combined with their technical expertise, can play the role of project manager. 

Whether you hire a CTO or not, your pitch deck must address your team structure. If you have a CTO, great! If not, explain how you handle your technology, whether through freelancers, an agency, or you have chosen to take on the role yourself. 

Explanation of the Defensibility of Your Product

How easy would it be for a competitor to replicate your technology? That is the main question to ask yourself as you prepare to explain the defensibility of your tech. This is a major component of your pitch, as investors are looking to protect their funds and will want to assess their level of risk. Be detailed in your explanation. If your tech is not easily replicated, point out why that is. For example: 

• Do you personally have industry knowledge and/or connections that no one else has?
• Would it take another company a lot of time and resources to replicate it?
• Do you have anything that is patentable?

It is important to know how defensible your technology and your strategy are. The key differentiator between your product and competitors could be your knowledge, experience, and connections. Be sure to highlight that. 

Introduction to Your Team

Investors want to know who they are potentially doing business with and who will be responsible for bringing your startup’s vision to life. A strong team with relevant skills and experience may determine whether or not an investor decides to invest.

The team section of your pitch deck can include things like each team member’s name, role, relevant experience, and a brief overview of their contributions to the startup. By highlighting the strengths and expertise of your team, you can build credibility and confidence in your ability to execute your vision. 

Explanation of Your Financial Situation

Investors prefer to see healthy financials, especially regarding the tech team. It’s crucial to set up the budget efficiently, projecting the burn rate and creating profit and loss (PNL) statements. Startups must be on point regarding budgeting, providing accurate projections that align with their business goals and objectives.

If the startup has an in-house CTO, it’s essential to have them review the financials and ensure they align with the roadmap. Overall, including a detailed budget in the pitch deck demonstrates the startup’s financial acumen and readiness to manage finances responsibly.

Startup Roadmap

Another essential component of a startup pitch deck is a roadmap that outlines your startup’s future plans and milestones. Investors want to see that the startup has a clear vision and a well-thought-out plan for executing it. 

A roadmap that shows the startup is in the middle of its plan is often more attractive to investors than one that is just beginning. It’s essential to demonstrate that the startup has accomplished something already, whether it be technology or business-wise.

This achievement showcases the startup’s dynamic potential and ability to deliver on its promises. On the other hand, if the startup is at the beginning of its roadmap, everything is theoretical, and investors may perceive it as more of a risk. Overall, including a clear and achievable roadmap in the pitch deck helps investors understand the startup’s direction and potential for success.

What Will You Include in Your Pitch Deck?

Presenting your technology in a pitch deck requires careful consideration of several key elements. Including a clear and concise explanation of your technical co-founder or CTO setup, the defensibility of your product, your team’s introduction, your financial situation, and your roadmap is essential. Demonstrating that your startup has already accomplished something technology or business-wise showcases your team’s dynamic potential and ability to deliver on promises. 

When presented effectively in your pitch deck, these elements can help build credibility and confidence in your startup, attracting potential investors and increasing your chances of success. Remember to be clear, concise, and focused, and you’ll be well on your way to securing funding for your technology startup.

Looking to work with a venture studio that won’t just invest in your tech product but will build it with you? Schedule a pitch with Aleph One today.