Elevator Pitch
Outcome
Compose a brief, compelling elevator pitch.
Overview
An elevator pitch is the distillation of the most important points in your business concept and
business plan. Not lasting any more than one or two minutes, or the length of an elevator ride, it
should be compelling, well-conceived, and very well-rehearsed.
Instructions
Step 1: Identify the key components of your elevator pitch.
Complete the Elevator Pitch Development Worksheet on page 2 of this document. Record your
answers to the questions listed. Enter your own information when prompted, such as
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All BLUE text following each numbered item is hidden. It will not print. If you cannot see the
BLUE text, click on the “¶” button on the tool bar, or search Help for Hidden Text.
Step 2: Write the elevator pitch.
Complete the elevator pitch on page 3 of this document.
1. Copy the sentences from your answers in the worksheet.
2. Paste them into the elevator pitch. Together, they should form a clear, compelling
advertisement for your business.
3. Add any words or phrases necessary to make the “copy and paste” version read clearly and
smoothly.
4. Rehearse giving the pitch. It should not be longer than two minutes.
Step 3: Get feedback about your elevator pitch.
You have to “test market” your elevator pitch frequently and continuously:
1. Practice giving your elevator pitch to as many people as you can.
2. Ask your listeners if you grabbed their attention, highlighted your competitive advantage,
sold them on your company, and moved them to action.
3. Based on the feedback you receive, revise your elevator pitch to sharpen your message.
© 2013 Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation. All Rights Reserved.
FastTrac® TechVentureTM
Elevator Pitch Page 1 of 3
1. Elevator Pitch Development Worksheet
An elevator pitch should contain the following elements:
1. An attention-grabbing first line
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2. A description of your product or service and its market
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3. A description of the people behind the business
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4. The benefits of investing in your business
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5. A call to action
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6. You
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© 2013 Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation. All Rights Reserved.
FastTrac® TechVentureTM
Elevator Pitch Page 2 of 3
Elevator Pitch
© 2013 Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation. All Rights Reserved.
FastTrac® TechVentureTM
Elevator Pitch Page 3 of 3