Last month, I met with a founder who had created an incredible solution to a genuine problem. Her technology was sound, her market research thorough, and her team impressive.
When she finished her pitch to investors, the room fell silent, there wasn't a single question. Not because they were stunned by her brilliance - but because they didn't understand the fundamentals of her vision.
This scenario plays out every day in pitch meetings across the world. Brilliant businesses with transformative potential struggle to secure funding not because their ideas lack merit, but because they can't explain their value clearly and simply.
After working with hundreds of founders, we've discovered that the difference between funded startups and those still struggling often comes down to one critical skill: how effectively founders pitch their vision.
The 3 pitching traps that kill investor interest
Even brilliant founders with game-changing ideas make these common mistakes:
- The "feature dump" approach
Listing product features instead of telling a compelling story about the problem you're solving and why it matters. - The "one-size-fits-all" pitch
Using the same pitch for every investor instead of tailoring your message to their specific interests and portfolio strategy. - The "numbers only" narrative
Focusing exclusively on metrics while failing to create an emotional connection to your mission and vision.
Any of these sound familiar? You're not alone.
Whether you're pitching to potential investors, customers or employees it's crucial to be able to describe your business simply and powerfully.
Introducing IfWeRaise Pitch Pods with Hattie Willis
We're excited to announce a new program specifically designed to transform how founders pitch their startups.
Over eight weeks, our Pitch Pods program will help you craft a compelling narrative, build a standout pitch deck, and deliver your message with the confidence that makes investors take notice.
The program will be led by Hattie Willis, an experienced pitch coach and entrepreneurship educator who has:
- Worked as a Venture Builder, conceiving, testing, and pitching ideas for investment
- Taught and mentored on prestigious programs including UN SDG, Amazon Sustainability, and Hatch
- Has years of experience helping founders develop compelling pitches that secure funding
What are pitch pods?
Our Pitch pods are small-group, expert-led coaching groups (max 6 founders) that meet weekly for eight weeks.
Limited spots available
Our next pitch pod starts May 13th and is limited to just 6 founders to ensure you get the personalised attention you deserve.
Regular price: £549
Limited early bird special: £449 (Save £100 with code EARLYB)
Each pod includes: 8 live sessions with Hattie, pitch deck feedback, video resources, WhatsApp group support, and one recorded practice pitch with personalized feedback.
Take care,
Tim and Hattie
P.S. Quick pitching tip from Hattie: The first 30 seconds of your pitch are make-or-break. Investors decide whether to mentally check out or lean in during this critical window. Next week, I'll share the exact formula Hattie teaches founders to nail this opening.
