YC’s Michael Seibel emphasises two essential pitches for startup founders: a 30-second elevator pitch and a two-minute pitch for investors.
“A lot of people practice 10-minute, 30-minute, hour-long pitches. I think that’s all garbage. You can get your points across in two minutes. The more you talk, the more likely you’ll say something they don’t like.”
1. 𝗧𝗵𝗲 30-𝗦𝗲𝗰𝗼𝗻𝗱 𝗘𝗹𝗲𝘃𝗮𝘁𝗼𝗿 𝗣𝗶𝘁𝗰𝗵:
This should be clear enough for anyone to understand in three sentences:
• What your company does: Make it simple (e.g., “We’re Airbnb, and we allow you to rent out extra rooms”).
• Market size: A quick, rough estimate of the opportunity size.
• Traction: Growth or launch progress—show you’re moving fast.
2. 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗧𝘄𝗼-𝗠𝗶𝗻𝘂𝘁𝗲 𝗜𝗻𝘃𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗼𝗿 𝗣𝗶𝘁𝗰𝗵:
This version is for deeper conversations with potential investors, employees, or key partners.
Cover these five essentials:
• 30-Second Pitch: (As above)
• Unique Insight: What do market leaders not understand? Keep it to two sentences.
• Revenue Model: How you make money.
• Team: Focus on team composition (number, skills, and commitment).
• Big Ask ($$$): Know your raise details—funding type, amount, and minimum check size.
This framework is designed to keep pitches clear, concise, and impactful. Watch the clip below for Seibel’s full breakdown!
Credit: Rubén D. & Chris Tottman
