Can you convince a complete stranger in less than a minute that he or she ought to learn more about your business or idea…and possibly fund it? If you’re good, you can. It’s something that seasoned entrepreneurs do easily.
Your elevator pitch is what opens the door to an audience with a potential funder. If your pitch could use some polish…if you enjoy watching others deliver theirs…or if you’re looking for the next big thing, this event is for you. Entrepreneurs and businesses seeking to raise funds will have the chance to make a 60-second pitch to a panel of startup experts, plus an audience of prospective investors and other interested parties.
Because the goal of an elevator pitch is to not to close the deal but to secure a meeting to more fully explain the merits of the idea, the panel will critique presenters’ delivery rather than the substance of their proposals. They’ll comment on how well presenters succeeded, and offer specific, practical advice for improvement. Our panels are known for directness and candor. At the same time, their experience gives them deep empathy with anyone who puts it on the line.
Enterprise Forum Pittsburgh is calling for applications from anyone who’s interested in delivering their pitch at this special event. For details on how to apply, see “How to Participate,” below.
David A. Gurwin, Shareholder, Buchanan Ingersoll & Rooney PC
John C. Rodney, will be the moderator.
The panelists are currently being assembled and will include Mel Pirchesky, President of Eagle Ventures, a long-time Pittsburgh entrepreneur and investor
How to Participate
Because of time limits, only 10 - 12 participants will be invited to make pitches. If you want the chance for a scheduled slot, submit a brief summary of your business (no more than four pages, and preferably fewer than that!) to contact@enterpriseforumpittsburgh.com. To make sure we don’t miss you, put “Elevator Pitch” in the header. Submit your summary no later than November 20. Those selected to present will be notified by November 26.
Several people may also be chosen spontaneously from the audience to make a pitch. If you don’t receive a scheduled slot, we strongly encourage you to show up and raise your hand high when we make the call for volunteer presenters.
Date
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
Time
5:30 p.m. Registration and networking. Light buffet served.
6:30 p.m. Program begins.
Location
Pittsburgh Golf Club, 5280 Northumberland Street, Pittsburgh, 15217 (just off Forbes on Northumberland Street—next to Schenley Park).
Registration
Pre-register online at enterpriseforumpittsburgh.com
