Pitch Club January 20, 2011

Want to practice your startup pitch in front of people who've done it before? Crave the harsh criticism of your peers? Need the validation of seeing what works and what doesn't in other pitches?

Bring your 3 minute pitch. Put your name in a hat and if it gets picked, you're on. Powerpoints optional - just pitch. Then, answer questions and listen to painfully honest feedback from a panel of so-called experts.

The first rule of Pitch Club is you have to be ready to pitch. No teams, no moral support, no looky-loos.

More rules as we think of them.

FAQ:
Q: Who are these so-called experts and what are they going to do to me?
A: Your pitch will be evaluated by tech entrepreneurs who have pitched and gotten funded. They are your superiors.

Q: Do I need to send you my pitch beforehand?
A: No. If you have a slide deck, bring your laptop or USB drive - we'll have a projector set up for you to use.

Q: What about NDAs? Someone's going to steal my idea!
A: There are no NDAs - use your best judgment about what to talk about and what not to. Also, remember the first rule of fight club - don't talk about fight club. We're all on the honor system here.

Q: My pitch is more than 3 minutes - can I have more time?
A: No.

Q: Will it be catered?
A: Hell no. You know what's in the lobster bisque.

Q: Can anyone critique a pitch?
A: No, only the panel.