Pitch, Demo Day, Showcase, Say What?

Tis’ the season for pitches, demo days, showcases, etc. We know because we’re getting ready to host our SCAPE 2020 Startup Showcase this September. For us, these terms are everyday, but what actually is a “pitch” anyway? Let’s start with the obvious…Shark Tank.

If you’re interested in business creation, you’ve probably heard of or watched ABC’s Shark Tank. The concept is that entrepreneurs pitch their business ideas to a group of “sharks” to get a bite on an investment in their company. It’s the mainstream’s approach to the investment process and gives an easy example of how pitches work — a presentation by one or more people to an investor or group of investors with the goal to highlight the company story, benefit statement, and financials in exchange for funding. One of our favorite (and oh-so funny) Shark Tank examples is the Horse Pants Pitch by Jimmy Kemmel.

While funding is a whole other topic, the idea of a pitch is to secure funding so the startup can pursue their growth goals. Looking at a more regional scope, you can find pitch events actually across the state. Our friends at Greater Colorado Venture Fund recently hosted their Pitch Series at this year’s virtual West Slope Startup Week. Looking globally, you can also find Demo Days from industry leaders like TechStars from around the world.

All in all, the terms kinda sorta mean the same thing. It’s about startup companies getting the opportunity to present their idea to people who can help them achieve success. Sounds pretty great, right? Register for our Startup Showcase to watch our very own regional entrepreneurs pitch their ideas. Usually we host this in-person, but you can tune-in from anywhere (and eventually anytime) in our new virtual format.

Here’s to the spirit of innovation!