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23 Best Startup Pitch Deck Examples: Famous in Tech (For 2024)

Are you pitching your startup idea or raising more money for your business?

Presenting a startup pitch deck can be a tough experience. I t can make you very nervous and can even feel traumatic. Imagine exposing yourself in front of a group of strangers who either know a little or not at all about your company.

Aside from introducing yourself and your company, you also need to present a lot of things.  The problem is—you don’t have enough time when you're presenting a pitch. That's why you need the best pitch deck design that'll help you explain even the most complex topics. 

Quantity of slides is important. However, you also want a PPT deck design that lets you present with clarity. Investor decks are shared in person and through email. They may be sent before or as a follow-up after pitching to VCs. So, the right design is critical for the best pitch decks. With the right PPT pitch deck design, you’ll be able to:

• Explain your most complex ideas.
• Show investors how your brand will become a leader in the industry.
• Share the story of how your company came to be.

Let's explore some pitch deck examples that'll help you find the  right pitch deck for your needs. You're on your way to creating the best pitch decks.

Jump to content in this section:

• Concord Business Plans
• SEOmoz Pitch Deck
• Facebook Pitch Deck
• Airbnb Pitch Deck
• Uber Pitch Deck
• Mint Pitch Deck
• Buffer Pitch Deck
• Front Pitch Deck
• Sequoia Capital Pitch Deck Template
• Copper Cow Coffee Pitch Deck
• Kickfolio Pitch Deck
• Reflect Pitch Deck
• Lexop Pitch Deck
• Mixpanel Pitch Deck
• Yalochat Pitch Deck
• Crema Pitch Deck
• Mattermark Pitch Deck
• Dwolla Pitch Deck
• Foursquare Pitch Deck
• Intercom Pitch Deck
• iCrowdU Pitch Deck
• Ooomf Pitch Deck

23 of the Best Startup Pitch Deck Examples (To Learn From for 2024)

If you're not sure how to begin, we can help. We will teach you how to make a pitch deck. We'll show you the important parts and give examples of successful startup decks.

Let's see 23 of the best pitch decks of all time on SlideShare. Here we go!

1. Concord Business Plans

Concord Business Plans specializes in designing business plans and pitch decks. These best startup pitch decks have raised more than $2.5 Billion for their clients. Each slide features a branded color scheme, icons, and white space. This makes the slides easy to understand and read.

2. SEOmoz Pitch Deck

SEOmoz Pitch Deck makes excellent use of charts and graphs to illustrate data. This startup pitch deck uses different colors for each statistic. On top of color, they also use illustrations throughout the startup pitch deck. That’s one example of using color and illustration to make even the best pitch decks more interesting and less intimidating. 

3. Facebook Pitch Deck

Mark Zuckerberg and Eduardo Saverin created Facebook as a social network for universities. When they first tried to pitch the idea to potential investors, they didn’t have a clear business plan. You can't create a startup pitch deck that lacks a single focus.

They used the information they already had. This included their customer base, user engagement, and growth numbers. It's an example of a successful startup pitch deck for certain!

4. Airbnb Pitch Deck

The Airbnb company pitch deck is also one of the most searched for. This company is not only one of the biggest today, but it has also created a new niche in the travel and hotel industry.

Looking at the Airbnb startup pitch deck, you can learn a lot from it. But one of the principles that stands out is their use of the rule of three . You can see it in how they present the problem, the solution, the facts, the business model, and more:

Why the rule of three for startup pitch decks?

It’s simple, memorable and clean.

5. Uber Pitch Deck

Uber’s pitch deck was far from impressive. What caught the investor’s attention was the solution they provided. They were able to articulate the problem in a few short sentences using everyday words. After presenting the pain point, they presented their no-nonsense solution. 

6. Mint Pitch Deck

Mint , a personal financial services tool, has a simple pitch deck but the investors were drawn to it. First of all, it presented what value it can give to their users and partners. Second, they also understand that by putting their money in, each investor is exposed to different levels of risk. 

They put their investors’ minds to rest by creating some exit mechanisms to their investments.

7. Buffer Pitch Deck

Buffer is one of the top social media scheduling platforms. It allows you to schedule your content on Twitter, Pinterest, Facebook, and LinkedIn. What makes this pitch deck popular is the presentation of solid facts and numbers. The presentation also covers their achievements. This includes their user count, yearly earnings, and app connections.

This allows investors to see something important. They are not investing in a failing company. Instead, they are supporting one that grows steadily over time.

8. Front Pitch Deck

It's important to clearly present the problem and solution in your pitch deck. This will grab the attention of potential investors. Front  not only did that, but they were able to create a simple visual without overloading the information. 

They were able to distill each problem into a single phrase making it catchy and memorable. They used a similar approach in their startup presentation. They showed a solution and explained its value.

9. Sequoia Capital Pitch Deck Template

Sequoia Capital is one of the leading VC firms in Silicon Valley. Looking at the pitch deck they recommend, it gives a clue to any startup what they're looking for. They recommend going straight to the point:

• what your company is all about
• the problem you see and the solution you offer
• your competition
• your product
• your business model 

Putting all this information in your pitch deck shows that you've done your research and are committed to success.

10. Copper Cow Coffee Pitch Deck

Copper Cow Coffee provides special Vietnamese coffee with 100% eco-friendly pour over technology. Their company pitch deck grabs attention with a few important words. They clearly explained the business potential and growth opportunities for the company.

11. Kickfolio Pitch Deck

Showing the growth and metrics of your company is something to be proud of. Thus, it makes sense if you highlight them to show your prospective investors how much you’ve grown. Kickfolio understood this so instead of using small graphs; it presented charts and numbers in each startup pitch deck slide. Why hide your metrics when you all worked hard to achieve what your company has?

12. Reflect Pitch Deck

Reflect is a mental health startup, has nailed what a killer pitch deck looks like—minimal yet all the information is there. Aiming to be a leader in mental healthcare that uses data-driven matching, they were able to reflect that by using facts and data in their pitch presentation example.  The data presented was straightforward and easy to follow.

13. Lexop Pitch Deck

Lexop is a startup offering certified, trackable emails with instant legal proof-of-delivery. Their startup pitch deck begins with crucial information and ends by introducing the team. By showing the managers and advisors, they create transparency and authority.

14. Mixpanel Pitch Deck

Mixpanel’s approach is simple. They know exactly who their target audience is. They understand what their audience needs. They've also come up with a practical solution to meet those needs. Their target is people who have no clue what their analytics are.

15. Yalochat Pitch Deck

Pitch decks are, in one way or another, like infographics—present facts and figures and pair them with graphic icons. The result is an engaging and informative piece of content. Yalochat used this approach, and the result is a fancy startup pitch deck, but the value is still there. Plus, the color palette they used has made the figures and information even more interesting.

16. Crema Pitch Deck

Whether you're creating a design or offering your service, being consistent is gives you a huge advantage. The design team behind Crema’s pitch deck understood this. They've created a solid and consistent background in their presentation. Even though they used different images, they were all connected and had the same message and feel. Even the color and pattern all add to the cohesiveness of their theme resulting in a best startup pitch deck you can’t easily ignore.

17. Mattermark Pitch Deck

An effective product, service, or pitch deck must understand what the target audience wants. Mattermark was aware of this. They used the problems their prospects faced when designing their pitch deck layout. One issue they presented was disorganized SaaS reporting. To show this, they used screenshots as examples. After that, they offered their solution by bringing all the data in one place.

18. Dwolla Pitch Deck

Dwolla’s startup pitch deck banked on stories. They understood the power of stories and how they could move emotions. 

Here, they share Dwolla 's beginning. The audience can see that the company understands their problem. It also shows that the product was created to help them solve their problem the way it helped the developer.

19. Foursquare Pitch Deck

Foursquare was one of the first businesses to use gamification and it shines in their companey pitch deck. 

Although the pitch has a lot of text, it includes graphics and illustrations. These help demonstrate how their points and badges engage people and keep them interested.

20. Intercom Pitch Deck

Intercom focused on their strong team, early traction made it very clear what they needed. Also, you may notice that their deck was simple but nicely designed. 

This approach gave them an advantage over the typical presentations investors see daily.

Key Takeaway: Pay attention to the design of your pitch deck. Use your brand’s colors and fonts and incorporate plenty of white space into each slide.

21. BuzzFeed

BuzzFeed's startup pitch deck is an excellent example of using bold colors and bullet point lists. This makes the content easy to understand and digest. The end slide also has an effective call to action that’s easy to remember.

22. iCrowdU Pitch Deck

iCrowdU has a simple design with plenty of charts, screenshots, and other visuals to back up the data presented. They use a branded color scheme and bullet points to make the text easy to read. 

23. Ooomf Pitch Deck

Ooomf may have an unusual name but their pitch deck helped them secure 2 million dollars in funding. The company pitch deck itself has a simple and clean design that lets your audience focus on your presentation. 

Save Time With the Best Pitch Deck Templates

Let's talk about the advantages of using a pitch deck template before we explore our examples. The best startup pitch decks truly affect on your success.

If you're starting to create a pitch deck, you could spend hours designing it yourself. Or use one of the beautifully designed pitch deck templates available on Envato Elements. With a single monthly fee, you'll have access to thousands of Keynote and PPT presentation templates . These templates can help you land your next investment round.

Want to see more startup presentations? Here's another example of an excellent template for creating a pitch deck:

Designs like this are for you to use to create the best pitch decks. Now let's move on to looking at our startup pitch deck examples.

5 Best Pitch Deck Templates From Envato Elements - (For 2024)

To save time and ensure a standout design for your pitch deck, start with a professionally designed template. Take a look at some of the best pitch deck PowerPoint templates available on Envato Elements: 

1. Pitch Deck PowerPoint

The first best pitch deck template on our list has a simple and minimal design. You’ll find plenty of infographic elements as well as charts and slides to present important data about your company. The best startup pitch deck contains 40 unique slides designed in standard and widescreen resolution.

2. Pitch Deck Presentation

This pitch deck presentation comes with image placeholders. So, you can easily replace and add your own. This best pitch deck template has a modern design and comes with 50 slides designed in widescreen format. It’s also easy to customize thanks to premade color schemes.

3. Pitch Deck PowerPoint Presentation

If you’re looking for a more colorful design, this pitch presentation example will come in handy. It comes in a light and dark version and contains 150 unique slides based on master slides. You’ll also find plenty of infographic elements to add more visual appeal to your pitch presentation.

4. Business Pitch Deck PowerPoint

This pitch deck template includes 120 creative slides and 30 icon slides. These additions enhance the visual appeal of your pitch presentation. The template was designed in widescreen format. It also includes 50 premade color schemes for easy customization. 

5. Pitch Deck PowerPoint Presentation Template

If you like a more minimalist and simple style, this business pitch presentation exampleis a great choice. It's got 30 unique slides in full HD resolution. The template is fully customizable. It also comes with plenty of icons, charts, and infographic elements. 

5 Quick Tips to Making Great Pitch Decks for 2024

Creating your business pitch deck doesn’t have to be stressful. These tips will help take your worries away and help you focus on what you'll put inside your pitch deck. Take a look at these five tips and win your audience with an awesome PPT pitch deck.

1. Include Your Vision and Value Proposition

An effective pitch deck begins with your company's vision and the value you can offer to potential customers. It doesn’t have to be a complex explanation, but more like a short tweet or a one-sentence overview. Make it short and sweet.

You can also add your value proposition to show your uniqueness in comparison to other companies. For example, Uber presented their value proposition as the “ NetJets of Car Services ."

2. Present the Problem

We’ve said it earlier in the article, and we'll say it again—a successful product always solves a problem. Thus, you shouldn't fail to mention that on your pitch deck. Aside from talking about the problem, you should also talk about who has that kind of problem. Back your claims with facts and figures.

You can do what Dwolla did too. Share your story of starting the company to solve a problem the founder faced. The more you make the problem more relatable, the more you'll attract investors to your pitch.

3. Offer a Solution

If you pinpoint the problem but can't present a viable solution, your pitch deck is nothing. You've got to articulate your solution in your pitch. You can use the solution as a continuation of your story. Talk about your product and how it can solve the problem you mentioned. Your product is the hero that'll save the day and solve the problem at hand, just like what Mattermark did in our earlier example.

4. Explain Your Business Model

So, you've got a product that'll solve a particular problem, but how can it make money? Who pays the bills? In addition to these points, you can discuss how your prices compare to similar products in the market.

5. Showcase Your Team

Similar to the Buzzfeed pitch deck, featuring the people in your company adds credibility to your presentation.

Include their skills, experiences, successes, and expertise. It shows investors what each of the members contribute and why they're a critical part of the company.

5 Top Startup Pitch Deck Trends for 2024

We’ve looked at some of the best pitch decks ever made. And you’ve seen pitch deck examples from Envato Elements that you can use to build your own startup pitch deck.

But there’s one more thing to consider: the latest trends. The best investor pitch deck designs in 2024 use modern styles to connect with audiences. Here are five top startup presentation trends:

1. Mockups for Digital Services

Any tech firm deserves a compelling startup pitch deck. Even if you’re not in the tech sphere, chances are you've got a website, app, or social media. 

Don’t just talk about your digital presence. Show it off, with the best startup presentation device mockups. These are 3D models of laptops, smartphones, tablets, and more. Drop in screenshots of your app or site, and you’re all set. They set your investor pitch deck apart in 2024.

2. Powerful Starts With Memorable Titles

Ever heard someone say, “ it’s the start that counts? ” That’s never more true than in your startup pitch deck. You need to capture attention immediately, and the title slide is the best place to do it.

A compelling title serves as a clear, compelling introduction to your message. Remember, you’re seeking investment in you and your ideas. Make a great first impression. Learn how with our full title slide tutorial for PowerPoint:

3. Timelines to Capture Momentum

The best pitch deck examples track two things: past performance and future growth . In 2024, a startup presentation should include timelines to capture these key points.

A timeline is a visual way to show the passage of time. Timelines transform your growth journey into beautiful, easy-to-read illustrations. Try them now.

4. Structured Organizational Charts

When investors see a startup presentation, they want to know who they’re investing in. Photos go a long way, but it pays to show how your company structure fits together.

2024’s best pitch decks often feature crisp organizational charts. These show how your team fits and works together. They help clearly define roles and explain your value offering. 

To learn how to build organizational charts, check out our complete PPT tutorial:

5. Compelling Illustrations

There’s nothing worse than a text-heavy pitch deck. You need to keep things concise and to the point. A great way to do that is by using plenty of illustrations.

These may include photographs, or infographics. Infographics combine information with graphics to create powerful illustrations. They’re popular in 2024 investor pitch deck designs, and they should be part of yours.

More Easy-to-Use Top PowerPoint Template Downloads

You know now that a template is the best way to create a startup presentation. So, why not see more designs with the best PowerPoint layouts included?

Check out more of the best PowerPoint templates we've featured. Many of them are customizable to create the best pitch decks with less work than ever. 

Download one of these templates, make a few customizations, and you'll be ready to present your investor pitch deck.

Common PowerPoint Questions Answered (FAQ)

If you’re thinking about using PowerPoint for your investor pitch deck, you may have a few questions. Here are answers to give of the most common questions people ask about PowerPoint:

1. How Do I Start Using PowerPoint?

It’s easy! PowerPoint is a great option for users of every skill level. Just because you’re not a presentation expert doesn’t mean you can’t build a stunning startup pitch deck. 

A great option is to use premium pitch deck templates  like those found at Envato Elements. These templates work well for users of any skill level. All you’re doing is filling in the blanks with your own content. You enjoy professional styling, without having to create it yourself. 

So, jump in and check out PowerPoint’s robust features today!

2. Can I Work With a Team in PowerPoint?

Yes! PowerPoint offers several great ways to collaborate with a global team. An easy option is to save your file in Microsoft’s OneDrive cloud sharing service. From there, you can click Share and send a link to people all over the world. It’s the perfect way to work together to build an amazing startup presentation for 2024. 

Learn more here:

3. How Do I Add Photos to PowerPoint?

Easily. PowerPoint has a full suite of features that help you import and work with your own photos. In a few clicks, you can customize images to fit your needs.

Plus, premium templates often include drag-and-drop placeholders. Simply release your photo over the slide. Your startup presentation will soon fill with images. 

Learn more about photos in PPT here:

4. Can I Share PowerPoint Slides on Zoom?

Definitely. Zoom and other video-conferencing platforms have exploded in popularity recently. You might even find yourself presenting your startup pitch deck examples virtually.

Apps like Zoom make it easy to share PPT startup presentation decks with the world. Just test things out first. Learn all about that process here:

5. What Font(s) Should I Use in PowerPoint?

Two rules of thumb apply here: clarity and readability. You may be sharing with audiences in large rooms, for example. Choose a simple font that’s easy to see and understand.

A great resource is the Font library on Envato Elements. As a member, you've got unlimited downloads of thousands of custom fonts . Browse through the collection today!

Then, turn to our full PPT font tutorial for your next startup presentation:

Learn More About Making Great Pitch Decks for 2024

There are a lot of other elements you can add to make your pitch deck engaging and interesting. Check out these resources:

Get a Powerful, Professional PPT Design for Your Startup Pitch Deck Now

Aside from the elements we mentioned, make your pitch deck stand out even more by creating a story. It makes your pitch deck not only powerful, but cohesive from start to finish.

If you're ready to get started with your pitch deck, check these  PowerPoint presentation templates on Envato Elements.

Editorial Note: This article was originally published in April of 2019. It's been comprehensively updated with help from Brenda Barron,   Andrew Childress, and Daniel Strongin .

👀 Turn any prompt into captivating visuals in seconds with our AI-powered design generator ✨ Try Piktochart AI!

37 Legendary Pitch Decks | Pitch Deck Examples That Won Investors’ Hearts

A great pitch deck covers key points through visuals and bullet points and usually has a competition slide, a problem slide, and a solution slide to explain your offering and the market.

Additionally, a business model slide and a team slide (if your business is developed enough to present these) can turn a good deck into a great startup pitch deck.

Don’t forget, a simple pitch deck is a good pitch deck—and you’re about to learn how to nail it.

In this guide, we’ll share:

• Examples of 37 successful pitch decks
• Takeaways that you can apply when creating your own startup pitch deck
• Editable templates of 10 pitch decks that you can use for free
• Tips on how to create your own pitch deck

Looking for a winning pitch deck template ASAP to present in front of potential investors?   Try our free template created in collaboration with HighSpark – an agency that has helped more than 500 startups raise cumulatively over $80 million in funding. 

Here is the list of 37 of the best startup pitch deck examples that we will go through:

• ZenPayRoll (Now Gusto)
• Wealthsimple
• AppVirality
• Shape Integrated Software
• Ooomf (now Crew)
• Sequoia Capital

These startup pitch deck examples were created by top brands in tech. At the time, they were all small startups (seed stage companies) looking to raise money or venture capital through potential investors and grow their businesses. Sound familiar?!

We hope that their business idea and investor pitch decks will inspire you (and of course, potential investors).

If you are more of a visual learner than a reader type, you can watch a video summary of the first 10 startup pitch deck examples mentioned in this blog post:

Alternatively, if you’re ready to create your own pitch deck, we’ve added some startup pitch deck examples and pitch deck templates to the bottom of this article. You can go straight to them by clicking here . Or get access to Piktochart’s online design tool by signing up for a free account and choosing a presentation template to get started easily.

From behemoths like Facebook and YouTube to superstars like Buffer, together these startups have raised millions of dollars and are now worth billions!

It’s time to see how they did it.

37 Legendary Startup Pitch Deck Examples

1. facebook pitch deck.

Here’s a fun fact: Peter Thiel, the billionaire venture capitalist, and entrepreneur, was the first outside investor in Facebook back in 2004. That’s when Mark Zuckerberg first set out to turn his dorm room project into a lasting business. Zuckerberg received $500,000 from Peter Thiel.

Facebook’s pitch deck was more of a media kit  of sorts. It was containing the company’s value proposition, key metrics, and marketing services that were used to sell ads to potential clients.

Favorite takeaway : The focus of the startup pitch deck was based on solid numbers such as user engagement, traffic, and growth trajectory.

2. Airbnb pitch deck

Airbnb is a platform that allows people to list, find, and rent lodging.

This company is one of the greatest startup success stories of our time.

The now famous Airbnb pitch deck has become one of the best pitch decks for inspiring entrepreneurs around the world.

Favorite takeaway: The intro. It’s all about hooking your audience. You need to describe your business using as few words as possible. Imagine telling a 5-year-old what your business is about. If you can’t do that, it’s time to put some time into nailing it down.

When Uber hit the scene, they fundamentally reimagined urban transportation. Their pitch deck tells this audacious story perfectly. Simple yet impactful, it illustrates the problem of expensive taxis and car services, then introduces Uber as the affordable, tech-driven solution.

They use stark data points to highlight the financial opportunity, a vital touch for potential investors.

As you create your pitch, remember Uber’s two key strengths: painting a clear problem-solution scenario and using compelling data to underscore their market potential. This strategy not only shows understanding of their market but also communicates their transformative vision effectively.

Favorite takeaway : The deck is clean and minimalist. The flow is easy to follow, and you get a clear idea of what’s the problem they’re trying to solve, and how they solve it.

4. Buffer pitch deck

Buffer is a social media scheduling platform that helps you schedule content for Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Pinterest.

The almighty startup pitch deck that helped Buffer to raise half a million dollars gained popularity by becoming one of the first pitch decks openly shared online. The founder decided to put it up to help other startups to raise funds.

Favorite takeaway: Similar to Facebook, the deck was based on solid numbers from Buffer’s users (e.g., 800 users, $150,000 annual revenue run rate, etc.)

5. Square pitch deck

Square is a company that allows merchants to accept mobile credit card payments via a dongle.

Favorite takeaway : Social proof! It doesn’t hurt to promote the management team if they’ve been with Twitter, Google, LinkedIn, PayPal, and more. It shows that your management team’s experience is an armor to the company. This detailed startup pitch deck outlines Square’s business model and a simple financial model that portrays its annual revenue and five-year growth rate.

6. LinkedIn pitch deck

Founded in 2002, LinkedIn is the top business-oriented social networking platform.

The company’s pitch talks a great deal about company values, the power of networking, and how it’s different from other social networks out there.

Favorite takeaway : The deck also provides an extensive analogy to showcase to investors what LinkedIn is. For example, it talks about “Web 1.0” vs. “Web 2.0”: Alta Vista was “Search 1.0”, and Google was “Search 2.0”. The deck talks about how LinkedIn is “Networking for Businesses 2.0”.

7. Mint pitch deck

Mint is a personal financial services tool that helps people track their spending and find ways to save money.

This startup pitch deck example was used in a competition and was never used for raising money, but it’s still a powerful deck that startups can learn from.

Favorite takeaway : This simple deck provides a clear value proposition to customers and investors. The creators of this deck also understood that one of the key concerns of an investor is the exit mechanism of his or her investments. I love how the deck highlights a number of exit strategy options.

8. Dropbox pitch deck

Drew Houston was sitting on a bus from Boston to New York, and realized he’d forgotten his USB drive (again). Out of the frustration sparked innovation. What if there was a simpler way to store data that didn’t need to be in a physical format?

This simple inconvenience led to the creation of a service that would revolutionize file storage and sharing for millions.

Founded in 2007 by Houston and Arash Ferdowsi, Dropbox quickly became a game-changer in cloud storage. The company’s core service allows users to store, sync, and share files across devices seamlessly. With over 700 million registered users from 180 countries, Dropbox has grown from a simple file-sharing tool to a comprehensive collaboration platform.

Dropbox’s 2007 pitch deck, which secured a $1.2 million seed round, stands out for its clarity and engaging approach. The deck’s straightforward design, with large text and a clean layout, makes complex information easily digestible. It effectively tells a story, connecting investors to the common pain points of file sharing and storage.

Two aspects of the pitch deck particularly shine:

• Problem-solution narrative: the deck clearly outlines everyday file-sharing issues before presenting Dropbox as the elegant solution. This storytelling approach helps investors envision life without digital storage headaches.
• Competitive edge visualization: Using a simple tick-and-cross system, Dropbox effectively illustrates its superiority over competitors. This visual comparison instantly communicates the product’s unique value proposition.

Favorite takeaway : Keep it simple and relatable. Dropbox’s pitch deck succeeds by addressing common problems with clear, jargon-free language. For entrepreneurs crafting their own pitch decks, remember that your audience may not be tech experts. Explain your solution in terms anyone can understand and appreciate.

Imagine if customer service wasn’t a headache and endlessly long hold calls but a streamlined solution that was a win-win for all parties? Founded in 2013 by Mathilde Collin and Laurent Perrin, Front has revolutionized customer communication, transforming it from a necessary evil into a strategic advantage for businesses worldwide.

At its core, Front is a customer communication platform that blends the simplicity of email with the power of a CRM.

Front’s pitch deck struck a chord with venture capitalists, securing over $79 million in funding. But what made this deck so compelling?

First, the design. Front’s deck is a masterclass in visual storytelling. Clean lines and minimalist design make complex concepts digestible at a glance.

Second, the narrative. Front’s deck doesn’t just present facts; it weaves a story. It opens with a clear statement of market problems, then seamlessly transitions to Front’s solution. It’s not just telling; it’s showing – and investors were clearly listening.

But the real showstopper? Traction and growth. Front’s deck uses plot graphs and charts effectively to showcase its impressive trajectory. It’s like watching a rocket launch in slow motion – you can’t help but be impressed by the upward momentum.

Favorite takeaway : Keep it visual. Front’s deck proves that a picture is worth a thousand words – and possibly millions in funding. When crafting your pitch, think like a designer. How can you transform complex data into easily digestible visuals? Remember, your goal is to make investors say “Aha!” not “Huh?”

10. Mixpanel pitch deck

Mixpanel is an advanced analytics platform for mobile and the web. They not only measure page views but also analyze the actions people take. This is the series-B startup pitch deck for Mixpanel that helped them raise over $65 million.

Favorite takeaway : This pitch deck example started off with a problem: people guessing their analytics. It followed up by providing its solution to that problem and, ultimately, its competitive advantage. One of the best pitch decks, this is a great example of showing the problem and solution.

11. Moz pitch deck

Moz started out as an SEO company but has pivoted to support marketers across all inbound marketing strategies.

This is the series-B startup pitch deck for Moz which they used to raise over $18 million. If you’re an established startup, this is a great example of an investor pitch deck, and you can follow this guide. The pitch deck is packed with information about the company since it was founded five years prior to this pitch.

Favorite takeaway : Because the company had already been in operation for five years, they were able to present an accurate estimated revenue, revenue run rate, average customer lifetime value, cost of paid acquisition, etc.

12. Buzzfeed pitch deck

We all have a love-and-hate relationship with Buzzfeed, don’t we? I’m sure you’ve stumbled on their pages or watched their videos before. As of today, BuzzFeed has managed to raise over $240 million in investor capital (another great example of an investor pitch deck).

Favorite takeaway : SOCIAL PROOF! It doesn’t hurt to start a pitch deck with big numbers the company has, like the millions of users visiting the website on a monthly basis and quotations from large organizations such as CNN.

13. YouTube pitch deck

YouTube was acquired by Google in 2006 for $1.6 billion. Like Facebook, this company doesn’t require any introduction. Unfortunately, this is not the original deck. This is YouTube’s pitch deck to Sequoia Capital (one of the most established VC investors who’s often regarded as one of the industry’s best), which was released through a legal proceeding.

Favorite takeaway : The company wanted to be the primary outlet for video content, and it succeeded in doing just that. It goes to show that if you know what your product can do, are able to show its potential, and build on the momentum gained through early investments to create that, then you can achieve its potential. If you’re aiming to build an investor pitch deck to land a VC like Sequoia Capital, this presentation slide deck is a great template for you!

14. Manpacks pitch deck

Manpacks is a platform that delivers men’s essentials such as underwear, razors, grooming, and other products.

The company raised $500,000 with this pitch deck.

Favorite takeaway : This deck stands out! They clearly understand who they are, and they stayed that way throughout the entire presentation. The startup pitch deck is filled with a fun tone that helps explain the product well.

15. Foursquare pitch deck

Foursquare is a mobile platform that helps you find the best places to go in your area.

Favorite takeaway : This pitch deck does a great job using screenshots of social proof that the app already has from its users sharing tweets of them being the ‘mayor’ of a particular area.

16. Flowtab pitch deck

Flowtab was an app that allowed people to order drinks quickly at a crowded bar. Despite shutting down, the founders still made an effort to help other startups.

Favorite takeaway : Simplicity. This pitch deck example does well explaining critical information like the problem, the solution, their business model, and traction. You can’t really go wrong with this pitch deck.

17. Dwolla pitch deck

Dwolla is a payment solution that allows users to send, receive, and request funds from other users. This 18-slide startup pitch deck landed the company $16.5 million.

Favorite takeaway : Most startups are founded because of a problem they faced, but not many people tell their story well through their pitch decks. In their slide deck, Dwolla shared a great story of how the founder paid $50,000 a year in credit card fees and then created a solution for never doing it again.

18. ZenPayRoll (Now Gusto) pitch deck

Gusto (previously ZenPayroll) is a cloud-based solution tool for small businesses to pay employees.

The company raised $6 million with this pitch deck.

Favorite takeaway : This isn’t just a startup pitch deck. It is a template that you can use and replicate easily by filling in the blanks.

19. Bliss pitch deck

Bliss provides metrics for coders and allows them to collaborate easily.

The company raised over $400,000 using Angel List.

Favorite takeaway : The pitch deck was well composed with a clear understanding of the product and the investors they were pitching to. This is one of the best pitch decks to use if you know your target market.

20. Adpushup pitch deck

Adpushup allows companies to maximize ad revenues through advanced A/B testing. They raised more than $632,000 in investments.

Favorite takeaway : This slide deck proves that going back to the basics works. This pitch deck has basic principles like a great introduction, an outline of problems, potential solutions, market opportunities, products, case studies, milestones, traction, and a future plan.

21. Wealthsimple pitch deck

Wealthsimple is Canada’s first online investment manager. They raised more than $2 million in seed funding with this slide deck.

Favorite takeaway : The startup pitch deck is sweet and short but effective. Our favorite part is the transformation of the industry, which is laid out in a table format.

22. AppVirality pitch deck

AppVirality allows app developers to grow their platforms using growth method techniques proven by other startups.

Favorite takeaway : Our favorite takeaway is how the flow of AppVirality’s pitch deck goes through the problem, the proven solution, and how it works within their app to their target market in multiple slides.

23. Shape Integrated Software pitch deck

Shape Integrated Software is budget management software that helps PPC analysts manage various budgets across different channels.

Favorite takeaway : When you have the traction to back your startup, use it. Shape clearly took advantage of it and presented it clearly in their pitch deck .

24. Podozi pitch deck

Podozi is an online e-commerce platform based in Nigeria.

Favorite takeaway : Most startup pitch decks work well when they’re short and sweet, in multiple slides, like Podozi’s . The best takeaway is the working partnership with large brands that this platform already has.

25. Fittr pitch deck

Fittr is a platform that designs custom workouts tailored to equipment, access, time management, and goals.

The company raised $2 million in 2020 thanks to their initial pitch .

Favorite takeaway : As a user of this platform, we love the investment goals and the purpose of what the company is planning to use it for.

26. Swipes pitch deck

Swipes is a task manager app to help its users increase their productivity. Swipes has secured $2.04 million over three funding rounds, the first thanks to this slide deck .

Favorite takeaway : One of their pages used social proof of quotations from The Next Web and Lifehacker. You can’t go wrong with that.

27. GoCanvas pitch deck

GoCanvas (previously known as Canvas) replaces paper-based processes with affordable and easy-to-use mobile apps and forms. They raised $9 million with these decks.

Favorite takeaway :  Instead of saying what they do, the second slide in their pitch deck shows how their startup helps businesses. No words are needed.

28. Ooomf (now Crew) pitch deck

Crew (formerly Ooomf & then PickCrew) is a freelancer marketplace that connects mobile and web developers with projects or work. This deck was used to raise over $2 million dollars.

Favorite takeaway : Well-designed with an easy-to-understand flow.

29. Cubeit pitch deck

Cubeit is a mobile application that allows users to aggregate content from anywhere. Cubeit used this 13-slide deck to raise seed funding before they even had a finished product.

Favorite takeaway : A strong introduction will get investors to pay attention. Their deck starts out with a clear message, which was that “owning more devices doesn’t make your life easier”. I can’t help but pay attention to how this company will help.

30.  Castle pitch deck

Castle was a startup that let rental owners put their properties on autopilot. This was the deck Castle used to raise $270,000 for their startup.

Favorite takeaway : Great design and easy to digest.

31.  Sequoia Capital pitch deck

Sequoia Capital is one of the leading investment firms in Silicon Valley. This deck is a template they recommend following.

Favorite takeaway : It’s like having the keys to the kingdom. You don’t have to guess what this investment giant is looking for. They tell you straight away.

32. Peloton pitch deck

It’s 2012, and John Foley is frantically searching for his misplaced gym shoes. As he rushes out the door, late for his boutique fitness class, an idea strikes him. What if he could bring that high-energy, instructor-led experience right into people’s homes? This eureka moment birthed Peloton, a company that would revolutionize the fitness industry.

Peloton isn’t just about stationary bikes or treadmills. It’s a tech-savvy fitness ecosystem that marries cutting-edge equipment with live-streamed and on-demand classes. The company’s genius lies in its ability to create a sense of community and competition, even when you’re sweating it out in your living room. With internet-connected touch screens and real-time performance metrics, Peloton transforms solitary workouts into shared experiences.

Despite its current success, Peloton’s journey wasn’t always a smooth ride. The company’s initial pitch of a $2,000 internet-connected exercise bike raised more than a few skeptical eyebrows among investors. But Foley and his team pedaled on, eventually securing $1.9 billion in funding through various rounds.

Peloton’s pitch deck , particularly its Series-F round that raised a whopping $550 million, is a masterclass in visual storytelling. Two aspects stand out:

• Brand identity: The deck kicks off with a bold, magnetic cover slide that immediately captures attention. It follows up with a clever “Who We Are? & What We Are Not?” slide, effectively communicating Peloton’s unique features and establishing its brand identity.
• Target Audience Clarity: Peloton doesn’t beat around the bush when identifying its ideal customer. The deck clearly outlines its target demographic: high net worth, married individuals already spending over $150 monthly on fitness. This laser focus demonstrates Peloton’s understanding of its market and value proposition.

Favorite takeaway : Define who you are and who you’re not. Peloton’s pitch deck excels at differentiating the brand from “gimmicky” fitness alternatives. This clear positioning helps potential investors and customers understand exactly what makes your startup unique.

33. WeWork pitch deck

WeWork’s pitch deck beautifully encapsulates its community-driven approach to shared workspaces.

They use visually appealing slides that mirror their innovative, modern brand. Their pitch deck deftly articulates the benefits of shared workspaces in today’s economy, setting the stage for their unique value proposition.

Favorite takeaway : what we do, who we do it for, why we do it; the deck walks you through their company vision with smart visuals and copy. We loved how they generated urgency by highlighting how co-working spaces were a fast-growing trend and investors could miss out on a profitable investment if they didn’t act quickly.

34. MatterMark pitch deck

MatterMark’s pitch deck is a testament to the power of storytelling. utilizing clean visuals to aid comprehension and coupled with succinct copy to keep the narrative engaging. The 30-slide deck earned the platform $6.5 million in seed A funding.

Favorite takeaway : Strong visual storytelling through the use of charts and graphs. In just a few moments, you can see where the majority of their revenue comes from compared to their other revenue streams.

35. Tinder pitch deck

We live in a world where finding a potential partner is as simple as swiping right, all thanks to Tinder. Founded in 2012 by Sean Rad, Justin Mateen, and Jonathan Badeen, Tinder quickly became the go-to app for millennials looking for love – or just a casual fling.

Tinder’s core service is straightforward yet game-changing. Users swipe right on profiles they like and left on those they don’t. If two people swipe right on each other, it’s a match! This simple mechanic transformed the often-daunting world of online dating into an engaging, almost game-like experience.

The pitch deck that secured Tinder’s initial funding is a masterclass in simplicity and effectiveness. It cuts through the noise, presenting a clear problem and an elegant solution. The deck begins with a captivating introduction that outlines Tinder’s mission to simplify dating. It then dives into the challenges of traditional online dating, positioning Tinder’s swipe-based interface as the innovative solution.

What stands out in Tinder’s pitch deck? First, the visuals. The deck uses screenshots and product demonstrations to showcase the app’s unique features and user experience. It’s not just telling investors about the product – it’s showing them how it works.

Second, the deck shines in its market analysis. It provides a detailed breakdown of the online dating market size and potential, highlighting the growing trend of mobile app usage for dating. This data-driven approach gives investors confidence in Tinder’s growth potential.

Favorite takeaway: Keep it simple, stupid! Tinder’s pitch deck proves that you don’t need fancy jargon or complicated graphs to impress investors. A clear problem statement, an innovative solution, and solid market analysis can be more powerful than a hundred slides of buzzwords.

Entrepreneurs, take note: Tinder’s success wasn’t just about the idea – it was about execution. The pitch deck introduced a strong founding team with expertise in technology and social networking, showing investors that Tinder had the skills to turn its vision into reality.

36. LaunchRock pitch deck

LaunchRock allows users to create landing pages and quickly get their startups known through social media, even before the launch of their full site.

Favorite takeaway : As a more creatively designed pitch deck example, this pitch deck had only 15 slides but showed how the product works and the different ways it can be used. They also utilize an analogy similar to what LinkedIn had in their decks.

37. MapMe pitch deck

MapMe allows users to create universally accessible (i.e., on smartphones, tablets, and computers) maps of anywhere they want with no coding required.

This startup deck was used to raise $1 million in seed funding.

Social proof almost always works. The deck showed that the startup had over 20,000 unique visitors, 18,000 monthly alerts, and12 minutes average sessions on the site.

Favorite takeaway : The pitch deck has fewer than 13 slides but provides investors with knowledge of the traction the site got going viral on social media and its go-to-market strategy.

10 Pitch Deck Templates for You to Try

The following pitch decks are free templates available in Piktochart that you can use. This makes it easy to work on your slides without having to worry about design. We took care of that for you.

If you don’t have an account yet, just sign up for a free Piktochart account here and then click on one of the templates below.

To learn how the online pitch deck creator works, watch this on-demand demo .

1. Investment Pitch Deck Template With HighSpark

2. Finance Pitch Deck Template

3. Business Pitch Deck Template

4. Startup Pitch Deck Examples

5. Tech Pitch Deck Examples

6. Business Keynote Template 

7. Product Pitch Deck Template

8. Product Pitch Deck Template

9. App Product Presentation Template

10. Product Website Pitch Deck Template

Summary of Pitch Deck Template Takeaways

To sum up, a strong startup pitch deck not only serves to reinforce your brand to the target audience or investors, but shows your business plan and unique offering through the slides presented; using a problem slide, a solution slide, and a traction slide including concise bullet points. 

The best startup pitch deck also shows off your company’s personality, through the inclusion of a team slide or similar in the next few slides, to be presented after your business plan is clearly outlined.

As your company grows, you’ll probably start thinking about the next stage of growth. You can use these successful pitch decks can as the foundation to make an investor deck for your next round of financing.

Look at the takeaways from these startup pitch decks as a guide to help you in your quest to raise funds and venture capital for your own startup for an investment round.

Here are some of the key takeaways from our pitch deck examples:

• Pitch decks don’t have to be formal or beautiful.
• A great pitch deck will provide an impactful intro or slogan.
• Keep your deck short (less than 20 pages).
• Use analogies to back up the points that you’re making.

After going through so many startup pitch deck examples, we recommend that to make your pitch presentation stand out you should:

• Start with a strong intro/vision.
• Show problems and offer solutions.
• Identify market opportunities.
• Showcase products/services clearly.
• Digest your business model
• Highlight financials
• Add social proof/case studies.
• Differentiate from competition.
• Show an experienced management team.

Designing a strong pitch deck could turn your business idea into a reality after convincing investors to provide support financial support to your project.

If you’re looking for additional information, DocSend  shared lessons  they got learning from 200 startups who raised $360 million from their first pitch deck.

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12 Startup Pitch Deck Examples [+ Template]

A great startup pitch deck is an integral part of launching a business. This deck is presented to prospective investors to convince them to invest and help you grow your startup . The trick to having the best pitch deck possible is to include enough information to explain your goals and methodology without losing your audience’s interest.

Pitch decks are usually in PowerPoint, Apple Keynote, or Google Slides to make them easier to present to potential investors. However, the deck can also have an alternative format like a Word document or even a video. For inspiration, let’s go through some successful startup pitch deck examples and discuss what they got right. 

Pitch Deck Basics

There are some overarching characteristics that make for a great pitch deck. While we’ll go through what a deck typically includes and some relevant business pitch examples, you can pick and choose certain elements as long as your startup pitch deck has the following basic qualities:

• Design-forward: Customers expect a better experience with your product and that’s achieved through better UX and graphic design. Show your team’s design chops with thoughtful deck design and mock-ups.
• Comprehensive: Be prepared to answer any questions from potential investors. Your slides should cover enough so if they check back for reminders after the presentation, they’ll find the most important information.
• Engaging: A startup pitch deck inevitably includes some boring elements. Your job is to keep it exciting and break up information-heavy slides with features like illustrations and block quotes.
• Straightforward: It’s easy to get caught up with sharing every detail, but it’s more important that your potential investors understand your pitch. For more complicated slides and ideas, pare down your pitch to make it easier to understand.

1. Problem Slide

Your pitch deck should open with a key problem — this is the whole justification for your business and why consumers will find it valuable. A common structure for this slide is to bullet pain points and create a story your potential investors can relate to.

The problem slide is the basis for your presentation. Creating a relatable story makes for an engaging presentation that’s easy to follow and understand.

Uber Example

Why it works : Although it’s not the most visually engaging, Uber’s business pitch example clearly explains how Uber solves key issues with traditional cabs. Uber’s deck is broken down into multiple slides to deliver all the necessary information without overwhelming the audience.

2. Solution slide

After presenting the problem, you should follow up directly with a solution. An effective solution slide structure covers current industry solutions and identifies the gaps your startup fills. This slide has a general overview of any proprietary technology, covers basic product features, and includes relevant interface mock-ups to show investors what your product will do for consumers.

Intercom Example

Why it works : Intercom’s solution slide is simple but effective. While some extra design could elevate this slide, the bullet points are easy to understand and effectively explain Intercom’s unique selling proposition (USP) in the SaaS market.

3. Market validation slide

Market validation is especially important to investors because it shows proof that there are people who will purchase your product. This slide should include any relevant statistics for current sales if your startup has launched or competitors’ sales if it hasn’t. Don’t forget to cover basic information about your target market, their purchasing power, and their habits in your industry. This slide is especially important if your prospective investors aren’t familiar with your product or industry.

LinkedIn Example

Why it work s: At 37 pages, LinkedIn’s pitch deck is longer than we’d recommend.  But what it lacks in brevity it makes up for with powerful market validation using clear data from top competitors. It also breaks down barriers to growth and revenue for these competitors and shows how LinkedIn would improve their models.

4. Market size slide

Market size goes hand in hand with market validation. Once you’ve confirmed your target market has enough purchasing power, you need to justify your product’s longevity.

Focus on continued sales. The two most common elements to ensure your startup brings in long-term revenue are:

• A very large market
• A business model built for continuous purchases (e.g., subscription models)

Facebook Example

Why it works: Facebook is the poster child for successful startups. Its market size slides effectively communicate how Facebook’s initial launches succeeded and justify further growth. The slides with market statistics about college students also explain clearly how Facebook will create revenue.

5. Product slide

The product slide is your chance to nail your pitch and sell your vision to investors. This slide should center your value proposition. A popular strategy for this section is to pose a few questions about your industry and show how your product is the answer. Take the time to craft this slide carefully, polishing it up from the copy to design details.

Dropbox Example

Why it works: Dropbox’s product slides are effective because they show how Dropbox truly innovates over other file sharing services. They justify why now is the time to launch and why consumers will choose Dropbox over competitors.

6. Business model slide

The business model slide covers how the startup will run and launch its product for sustainable growth. This section can compare your startup to other businesses or use internal data if the product has launched.

Moz Example

Why it works : While some of these slides can look busy, Moz’s business model was ahead of its time by calling out why organic marketing and search engine optimization (SEO) have untapped potential. This deck does a good job of explaining the business model to investors who might not be SEO savvy.

But wait...there's more!

7. market adoption slide.

It’s important to show some proof that your target market has interest in purchasing your product, especially if there are other competitors in the market. This is a lot easier if your product has already launched because you can include sales data. If your startup is pre-launch, showing potential market adoption can be tricky. In this case, you can use social proof from similar competitors. If you do this, it’s also important to note how your product differs from these competitors, especially if you can resolve a customer’s complaint. If possible, include case studies in the market adoption slide. These show proof that you can use investments to increase the reach of your startup.

Buffer Example

Why it works : Buffer’s market adoption slides show social proof through key statistics outlining Buffer’s success so far. With an extremely high profit margin and growth rate for their user base, Buffer shows off why their product will offer a larger ROI for potential investors.

8. Competition slide

Many investors look at your competition to help contextualize your startup. If an investor has little or no experience in your vertical, showing competitors they’re familiar with gives them real examples of success. This slide should cover the following topics related to your competition:

• Revenue data
• What competitors do well
• What competitors don’t do well
• How your startup bridges product gaps

Mint Example

Why it works : Mint’s competitor slides are effective because they show current competitors along with future projections for these competitors. This slide effectively shows how Mint creates more value for customers over time and uses competitors as inspiration in their defensive strategy.

9. Team slide

A team slide helps investors get to know the minds behind your startup. Include information about founders, leadership, and top existing investors to show why your team is qualified to launch this startup. Any evidence of past successes with your leadership, consultants, or investors is important to include, as it shows new investors that you have relevant experience to launch your startup. If there’s any relevant history about your startup, such as a higher ROI than expected for a former investor, be sure to include this in your pitch deck.

Contently Example

Why it works : While Contently’s team slide has a lot of information, it’s all relevant to potential investors. In addition to founders and investors, Contently includes top employees, proprietary technology, advisors, and the amount they’ve raised so far. This, along with their financial model slide, show potential investors that Contently will make good use of their investment and even make them some profit.

10. Press slide

The press section of your startup pitch deck is a great opportunity to show off any buzz and get your investors excited about your business. Focus on positive reviews or attention related to your product. Stay away from negative press unless you can show you’ve changed those negative opinions. Make sure to keep these slides focused and succinct. It’s easy to get caught up in showing off product buzz, but press slides should always demonstrate potential for a more widespread product adoption.

Snapchat example

Why it works : Snapchat was in a unique position at the time this deck was created, as its press slide has strong social proof. Snapchat calls out popular users, including press and media sources, that are already using the app. The wide variety of users, including household names like MTV, shows how Snapchat is a well-known social media platform.

11. Testimonial slide

Testimonials give investors insight into what existing customers really think about your product. Testimonials can also shed light on the public perception of your product, especially compared to competitors.

Seventy-two percent of consumers only take action after reading positive reviews. You can use this logic with your potential investors, too.

Positive testimonials show that your customers have brand loyalty and that users are satisfied with the product and customer service. This section of the startup pitch deck is only possible for startups that have launched their product.

AirBnB Example

Why it works : Not every pitch deck includes testimonials, especially if the startup hasn’t launched, but it makes sense to include feedback for Airbnb. Showcasing new users makes this slide simple yet effective. It could also benefit from including average Airbnb ratings for stronger evidence of positive reception.

12. Financial model slide

The financial model slide shows how your product creates revenue. For example, if your product is a subscription-based service, has premium features, or other horizontal integration, you’ll explain that model on these slides. Potential investors should walk away from your presentation knowing exactly how your startup creates revenue and understand any plans to ensure a steady stream of income.

Shopify Example

Why it works : Shopify offers a great pitch deck example of when breaking some pitch norms can work in your favor. Although it’s nearly 30 slides, the entire deck is informative and engaging. The financial model slides work well because they show how Shopify and its past investors turned a profit. Not only do they explain their current financial model, but Shopify also covers their plans for future growth to reassure investors they’ll make a profit, too.

What should you avoid putting in a startup pitch deck?

The best pitch deck is completely tailored to your startup. While there’s no hard-and-fast rule about what you shouldn’t include, make sure everything you’re presenting is relevant to potential investors. 

How do I present my startup pitch deck to investors?

It’s almost always better to present a pitch deck live to investors. Designate one member of your leadership team, ideally a founder, to present your deck to investors. 

Following a script can come across as disingenuous, but using notes is OK, so get lots of practice in before you present to investors.

What should a startup pitch deck include?

A typical startup pitch deck template includes the following slides:

• Market validation
• Market size
• Business model
• Market adoption
• Competition
• Testimonials
• Financial model

However, every pitch deck is different, so your final pitch might skip some of these topics or use multiple slides to expand on certain sections.

Built to scale with HubSpot for Startups

It takes some time to put together a startup pitch deck that works, but once you’ve nailed your presentation, you can reuse it for multiple pitches with just a few tweaks to update any data or statistics. HubSpot for Startups helps you track marketing and sales data to make this process easier. New investors can rest easy knowing you’ve got the support of HubSpot’s powerful CRM at your fingertips.

Get the pitch deck template

25+ Best Startup & Proposal Presentation Templates

Plan for growth with our startup and proposal PowerPoint templates. These tools provide a range of professional designs that can help you present your business proposals and startup plans in a compelling way.

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FAQs About Startup & Proposal Presentation Templates

What is a startup & proposal presentation template.

A Startup & Proposal Presentation Template is a pre-designed layout that can be used for showcasing your startup idea or business to potential investors, stakeholders, or clients. These templates come in various formats like PowerPoint, Google Slides, Keynote, etc., allowing you to present your business proposal in a comprehensive, organized, and visually appealing manner.

The template typically includes different sections that help you outline your business concept, strategy, market analysis, financial projections, etc. This saves significant time and effort as you don't have to create a presentation from scratch but can modify the template to suit your specific needs and preferences.

Why should I use a Startup & Proposal Presentation Template?

Using a Startup & Proposal Presentation Template can provide several benefits. First, it gives your presentation a professional look, building credibility and enhancing your audience's perception of your business idea or proposal. Second, it helps to structure your presentation logically and coherently, ensuring that you cover all essential aspects of your proposal and making it easier for your audience to understand your business objectives and strategies.

Furthermore, a good template can save you considerable time and effort, eliminating the need to design a presentation from scratch. It provides a standardized format that you can easily adapt to your needs, making it more efficient to prepare compelling presentations.

Can I Customize Startup & Proposal Presentation Templates?

Yes, Startup & Proposal Presentation Templates are fully customizable. You can edit the text, change the colors, fonts, and images, add your logo, adjust the layout, and make any other modifications to make the presentation align with your brand style and personal preferences. This level of customization allows you to create a unique and professional-looking presentation that truly represents your business idea or proposal.

The degree of customization might depend on the software you are using. Some templates may have limited customization capabilities, so it is essential to pick a template that allows for comprehensive modifications if you have specific design requirements.

Where can I find Startup & Proposal Presentation Templates?

Startup & Proposal Presentation Templates are available on many online platforms. These platforms offer a wide range of templates designed by professional graphic designers and targeted towards different types of business proposals and startup ideas. Among these are popular options like Envato Elements, TemplateMonster, Slides Carnival, and GraphicRiver. You can browse through their collections and choose the template that best suits your needs.

Moreover, tools like Microsoft PowerPoint, Google Slides, and Apple Keynote also provide in-built templates for business presentations. However, these might not be as specialized as those found on dedicated template platforms.

Do Startup & Proposal Presentation Templates require any special software?

Startup & Proposal Presentation Templates can be made in various software, most commonly Microsoft PowerPoint, Google Slides, or Apple Keynote. The type of software required will depend on the template format. For example, a PPTX template would require PowerPoint, while a KEY file would need Keynote. Most templates will specify which software they are compatible with, so you know what you need to edit them.

Some templates may also require certain plugins, font packs, or other additional resources, especially if they use certain advanced design elements. These requirements will be mentioned in the template's product details, so you need to ensure your system has these prerequisites before making a purchase.

Startup Pitch Decks: 30+ Best Examples & Templates

Eric Melillo

Updated: March 23, 2024

The Importance of a Great Startup Pitch

Key elements of a successful pitch deck:, analyzing seed stage pitch decks: moz, crew, and uber:, dissecting series a pitch decks: mixpanel, buzzfeed, and front, exploring series b pitch decks: mixpanel, buzzfeed, and moz, evaluating series c pitch decks: dropbox, buffer, and facebook, unveiling angel investor pitch decks: foursquare and contently, case study: the airbnb pitch deck, showcase of legendary startup pitch deck examples:, try these pitch deck templates for your next presentation:, insights and tips for creating an impactful startup pitch.

Ever wondered how some startups attract venture capital investors like bees to honey? The secret lies in a well-crafted Startup Pitch Deck. As startups’ main instrument to convince venture capitalists of their business idea, a compelling pitch deck can be your golden ticket to funding and mentorship.

Drawing from the experience and insights of successful entrepreneurs in the venture capital industry, this blog post unpacks the elements of a persuasive pitch deck for pitching a business idea. Here, we’ll examine case studies of renowned companies, like Airbnb and Uber, whose pitch decks, designed with careful attention to presentation template design tips, have won over investors and secured them a place in the big leagues.

This post is more than a guide; it’s a tool to empower you to create an impactful Startup Pitch Deck. By the end, you’ll know how to construct a pitch deck that clearly communicates your business model, aligns with investor expectations, and, most importantly, tells a captivating story about your startup. So, let’s get started on your path to investment success with pitching and title slide design tips for seed funding using a presentation template.

A great startup pitch, also known as an investor presentation, is the key to unlocking funding and partnerships for small businesses. It has the power to make or break the success of securing capital and propelling growth. The investor deck or presentation slide deck plays a crucial role in effectively pitching your business.

Creating Excitement and Generating Interest

First impressions matter when seeking seed funding. A well-crafted startup pitch, using a presentation template, has the ability to create excitement and generate interest among potential investors or partners. By presenting a clear value proposition that highlights the unique aspects of your brand, you can capture their attention from the get-go. The key takeaway is to secure the necessary capital for your business.

Investors are constantly on the lookout for startups with high growth potential. They want to see big numbers, promising valuations, and a strong vision for future success. A persuasive pitch that demonstrates these elements can significantly increase your chances of securing funding. By showcasing your market research, competitive analysis, and financial projections in an engaging manner using a presentation template, you can paint a picture of opportunity that investors won’t be able to resist. The key takeaway is to present compelling figures that highlight the potential capital gains.

Standing Out from Competitors

In today’s competitive landscape, it is crucial for startups to have a standout product and presentation template in order to secure capital and partnerships. The key takeaway is that your business pitch needs to be memorable and distinct to leave a lasting impression on potential investors.

One way to create a great pitch deck is by highlighting your unique value proposition in your professional pitch deck. What sets your startup apart in your investor presentation? Is it innovative technology? A disruptive business model? Exceptional industry expertise? Whatever it may be, emphasize what makes your venture special and explain why it matters in the market. The key takeaway is to showcase these unique aspects in your pitch deck.

Storytelling plays a vital role in capturing attention during a pitch presentation. Instead of bombarding investors with dry facts and figures, weave together a narrative that showcases your passion for solving a problem or meeting an unmet need. By connecting emotionally with your audience through storytelling techniques, you can make your pitch more relatable and memorable. The key takeaway is to use storytelling in your slide deck to engage investors. Incorporate slides that highlight the details of your narrative to create a lasting impact.

Demonstrating Potential for Growth

Investors are looking to put their money into startups that have the potential for significant growth . A great startup pitch should effectively communicate this potential by showcasing your market opportunity, scalability, revenue projections, and key takeaway. Use a compelling presentation template to highlight your product and idea.

Presenting a great business pitch deck is crucial for a successful pitch deck presentation. Highlighting the size of the market and its growth rate can help investors understand the opportunity at hand. Back up your claims with credible statistics and industry research to demonstrate that you have done your homework. By presenting a compelling case for growth, you can instill confidence in potential investors and increase their willingness to invest in your startup.

Furthermore, when creating your professional pitch deck, it is crucial to emphasize how your business model aligns with long-term sustainability and profitability. Investors want to see a clear path to monetization and return on investment in your startup pitch deck examples. Outline your revenue streams, customer acquisition strategies, and plans for scaling operations in your pitch deck presentation. By demonstrating a well-thought-out roadmap for growth, you can alleviate concerns about the viability of your business. The key takeaway is to showcase a comprehensive plan for success in your pitch deck.

A successful presentation template for a pitch deck is the backbone of any startup’s efforts to raise funds for their product. It serves as a powerful tool to communicate your business idea , attract investors, and secure funding. To create an impactful pitch deck, there are several key elements that you should include, such as well-designed slides.

Problem Statement :

The problem statement is the foundation of your presentation template. It clearly defines the pain point or challenge that your product or service aims to solve. By highlighting a compelling problem, you capture the attention of investors who are looking for innovative solutions. Use concise language to describe the problem and emphasize its significance in the market. The key takeaway is to focus on the idea and design.

Following the problem statement in your business pitch or investor presentation, outline your unique solution. Explain how your product or service addresses the identified problem and why it stands out from existing alternatives. Clearly articulate the value proposition and benefits that your solution brings to customers. Use visuals such as infographics or diagrams from a presentation template to illustrate how your solution works and its potential impact. Design is key in effectively conveying your message.

Market Analysis:

Investors want to understand the market potential and viability of your startup. Conduct thorough research on industry trends, market size, target audience demographics, and growth projections. Provide data-driven insights that demonstrate a clear understanding of your target market’s needs and preferences. When preparing your business pitch, make sure to include these key takeaways in your presentation template and original pitch deck.

Competition Analysis:

Including competitors in your pitch deck presentation template demonstrates to investors that you have thoroughly analyzed the competitive landscape. Identify both direct and indirect competitors, assess their strengths and weaknesses, and clearly explain how your product differentiates from them. Highlight any competitive advantages or barriers to entry that give you an edge in capturing market share. The key takeaway is to showcase your understanding of the competitive landscape and position your product effectively.

Business Model:

Explain how your startup generates revenue by presenting a well-defined business model in the original pitch deck. Describe pricing strategies, revenue streams, customer acquisition channels, and any partnerships or collaborations that contribute to monetization efforts. Investors need clarity on how you plan to make money and sustain growth over time. Use our pitch deck template to effectively convey your product and key takeaway.

Team Overview:

Investors invest not only in ideas but also in the people behind those ideas. Introduce your team members, their roles, and relevant experience using a presentation template. Highlight key achievements or expertise that demonstrate your company’s capability to execute the business plan successfully. Showcase a diverse and complementary skill set within your team using a pitch deck template.

Financial Projections:

Provide realistic financial projections in your investor presentation or investor deck that demonstrate the scalability and profitability of your startup. Include key metrics such as revenue forecasts, projected expenses, growth rates, and anticipated milestones. Use charts or graphs from a presentation template or pitch deck template to visually represent the financial data for better comprehension.

Ask/Next Steps:

Conclude your pitch deck by clearly stating the key takeaway from your presentation template. Clearly outline what you are seeking from investors and the next steps in the funding process for your product or idea. This could include the amount of funding you are looking for, potential use of funds, and any specific terms or conditions you may have. Make it easy for investors to understand how they can get involved and move forward with your startup.

Moz’s seed stage presentation slides were a masterclass in showcasing their expertise in SEO. The slides not only highlighted their knowledge of search engine optimization trends but also presented data-driven insights that left investors impressed. The key takeaway from their pitch deck was their ability to make the numbers speak for themselves, effectively conveying their idea.

In their presentation, Moz highlighted their key takeaway: unique tools for marketers. By showcasing these tools in their slides, they effectively captured the attention of potential investors who saw the revenue growth potential. The idea of using their products resonated with them.

Furthermore, the key takeaway from Moz’s presentation was their inclusion of crucial details about their target market and competitive advantage. They made it clear in their original pitch deck why they stood out from the competition and why investors should believe in their ability to succeed. Highlighting the team’s expertise in the industry helped build trust and credibility among potential backers for their product.

All these elements combined made Moz’s presentation a success story. It played a pivotal role in securing the funding required for their initial growth and expansion plans. Investors saw the potential in Moz’s idea to SEO and recognized that they had something special to offer. The key takeaway from their slide deck was clear.

Crew’s seed stage presentation deck had one clear focus: connecting freelancers with businesses seeking design and development services. Their idea was to tap into the market opportunity and showcase it to potential investors. The key takeaway from their pitch was the template they used to convey their vision.

To capture attention right from the start, Crew showcased the demand for quality freelancers in the industry through compelling statistics and case studies in their original pitch deck. They painted a vivid picture of why businesses needed access to top-notch talent and how Crew could provide exactly that in their investor presentation. The key takeaway was the importance of their investor deck in highlighting the value proposition of their platform.

The presentation pitch deck also emphasized Crew’s key takeaway and idea. They made it crystal clear what set them apart from other platforms by highlighting features like seamless collaboration tools or efficient project management systems. This helped build confidence among potential investors that Crew had what it takes to succeed in terms of valuation.

But perhaps one of the most significant strengths of Crew’s presentation was the inclusion of successful case studies. By showcasing real-world examples, they provided social proof of their ability to help businesses achieve their goals. This undoubtedly played a crucial role in securing early-stage funding from investors for their growth and development plans. The key takeaway was that their idea worked.

Uber’s seed stage presentation pitch deck was nothing short of revolutionary. It presented a disruptive idea of transforming transportation through technology, capturing the imagination of investors who were ready to embrace change. The key takeaway from the presentation was the innovative vision, which was effectively conveyed through each slide.

Right from the start, Uber outlined the market opportunity in their original pitch deck by highlighting the pain points in traditional taxi services. The presentation made it clear that these services were outdated and inefficient, emphasizing the idea of disruption. Investors couldn’t help but see the potential for scalability in such an untapped market, which was the key takeaway.

The presentation, or pitch deck, then delved into showcasing Uber’s innovative business model. They highlighted key aspects like their driver-partner network and user experience features that set them apart from traditional transportation options. By painting a vivid picture of how their platform worked, they made it easy for investors to visualize its success and understand its valuation.

Uber’s presentation, including their key takeaway, played a pivotal role in attracting investors who recognized their innovative idea and valuation potential. The combination of a compelling vision, solid market analysis, and an innovative business model made it hard to resist investing in this groundbreaking startup.

Mixpanel: Revolutionizing Analytics for Businesses

Mixpanel’s Series A presentation slide deck was a game-changer in the world of analytics. They captivated investors with their powerful platform idea that helps businesses track user behavior like never before. With an emphasis on key metrics, Mixpanel demonstrated their ability to drive customer engagement and retention rates to new heights, making their valuation soar.

The key takeaway from the presentation was how Mixpanel’s analytics tool raised the bar compared to traditional methods. By showcasing a clear competitive advantage on each slide, they convinced investors that they were the go-to solution for data-driven insights. This unique selling point played a crucial role in securing their Series A funding.

BuzzFeed: The Viral Content Phenomenon

BuzzFeed’s Series A pitch deck showcased their unparalleled approach to content creation and distribution. The key takeaway? Their secret sauce of creating viral content that resonates with millennial audiences like no other media company can. Investors were immediately drawn to the idea of capturing the attention of this highly sought-after demographic.

The investor’s key takeaway from the pitch deck was the idea that BuzzFeed could monetize their massive reach through advertising partnerships, generating substantial profits. This captivating slide showcased their revenue generation strategies, leading to significant investment during the Series A stage.

Front: Revolutionizing Team Communication with Email

Front’s Series A pitch deck centered around their idea for a collaborative email platform designed specifically for teams. They highlighted how their key takeaway, the innovative solution, streamlined communication processes and boosted productivity through shared inboxes. This resonated with investors who understood the challenges faced by teams dealing with overflowing email threads and miscommunication. The slide presentation effectively conveyed Front’s unique proposition.

To provide social proof of their success, Front showcased notable customers who had already embraced their platform in their pitch deck. This served as a powerful endorsement and solidified Front’s credibility among potential investors. The key takeaway is that this strategy helped Front secure Series A funding, allowing them to continue developing their groundbreaking email platform. The slide featuring notable customers was instrumental in achieving this milestone.

Mixpanel’s Series B pitch deck was all about expanding their analytics platform to new markets. They wanted to show potential investors that they had a solid plan for growth and were ready to take on the challenge. One of the key points they highlighted was their success in customer acquisition and retention through case studies, including a compelling slide showcasing their achievements.

They showcased how their analytics platform had helped various companies improve their user engagement and drive revenue growth. By presenting real-life examples of how Mixpanel had made a positive impact on businesses, they were able to demonstrate the value of their product in their investor deck.

Another important aspect of Mixpanel’s pitch deck was its focus on enterprise clients. They highlighted the potential revenue growth that could come from catering to larger companies. This showed investors that Mixpanel had a clear strategy for scaling up and capturing a significant portion of the market share. The pitch deck included a compelling slide emphasizing their commitment to serving enterprise clients.

The compelling nature of Mixpanel’s pitch deck, with its impressive slide presentation, led to significant investment at the Series B stage. Investors saw the potential in their analytics platform and recognized the value it could bring to businesses across different industries.

BuzzFeed’s Series B pitch deck had a different emphasis compared to Mixpanel. Their main goal was international expansion and diversification of content offerings. They wanted investors to see that they were not just focused on one market but had plans to reach audiences globally. The pitch deck included a slide highlighting their plans for international expansion and another slide showcasing their diverse content offerings.

To support this objective, BuzzFeed showcased their ability to engage global audiences with localized content strategies in their original pitch deck. They presented examples from their investor deck of how they had successfully adapted their content for different regions, ensuring relevance and resonance with diverse cultures. These examples demonstrate the effectiveness of their pitch deck template.

Monetization plans through branded content partnerships were also included in BuzzFeed’s pitch deck . This demonstrated that they had thought about generating revenue beyond traditional advertising models. By partnering with brands for sponsored content, BuzzFeed aimed to create mutually beneficial relationships while driving financial growth.

BuzzFeed’s compelling pitch attracted substantial investment at the Series B stage because it showed investors that they had a clear plan for international expansion and revenue diversification. Their ability to engage audiences across the globe and their innovative monetization strategies made them an attractive investment opportunity.

Moz’s Series B pitch deck revolved around scaling their SEO software suite for enterprise customers. They wanted to show investors that they had identified a market opportunity and were ready to capitalize on it. To support this, they highlighted industry trends and the growing demand for SEO tools.

The investor deck presentation included data and statistics showcasing the importance of search engine optimization in today’s digital landscape. Moz aimed to position themselves as leaders in the industry by demonstrating their deep understanding of SEO and its impact on businesses. The original pitch deck served as a template for their presentation.

Moz also focused on highlighting their competitive advantage through their original pitch deck and pitch deck template. They showcased how their SEO software suite offered unique features that set them apart from competitors. By including testimonials from satisfied customers, they built credibility and trust with potential investors.

Moz successfully secured significant investment at the Series B stage based on their compelling pitch. Investors recognized the market potential for scalable SEO solutions, especially for enterprise clients. Moz’s focus on differentiation, market trends, and customer satisfaction played a crucial role in attracting investment.

Dropbox: Expanding Cloud Storage Services Globally

Dropbox’s Series C pitch deck was all about taking their cloud storage services to the next level. They wanted to show investors that they were ready to expand globally and dominate the market. And boy, did they have some impressive numbers to back it up!

The presentation kicked off with the original pitch deck, featuring jaw-dropping user growth metrics that left everyone in awe. They made it clear that there was a massive demand for their product and that people couldn’t get enough of it. Investors could practically see the dollar signs flashing before their eyes. This pitch deck template was truly impressive.

But it wasn’t just about the numbers. Dropbox knew that showcasing their collaboration with tech giants like Apple in their original pitch deck was key to their success. By aligning themselves with industry leaders, they demonstrated to investors that they were serious about making big moves in the market. Use our pitch deck template to create your own impressive presentation.

And guess what? Their efforts paid off! With an original pitch deck and investor deck, Dropbox successfully raised substantial funding at the Series C stage. With an irresistible combination of skyrocketing user growth, strategic partnerships, and a solid plan for global expansion, Dropbox used a pitch deck template to present their ideas to investors.

Buffer: Scaling Social Media Management

Buffer’s Series C pitch deck had one goal in mind: scaling their social media management platform like never before. They wanted investors to know that they were ready to take on the world of social media and make a lasting impact.

To prove their worth, Buffer showcased their revenue growth through subscription-based pricing models in their original pitch deck. They made it crystal clear that customers loved what they had to offer and were willing to pay for it on a recurring basis. Talk about a steady stream of income! Now, you can use this pitch deck template to create your own impressive presentation.

But Buffer didn’t stop there. They also highlighted something unique – their commitment to transparency and company culture in their original pitch deck. In an era where trust is everything, this pitch deck template was a smart move. By showing investors how transparent they were with customers and employees alike, Buffer built credibility and trustworthiness.

And you know what? Their efforts paid off big time. Buffer successfully secured significant investment at the Series C stage, proving that their original pitch deck and pitch deck template had what it takes to thrive in a competitive market.

Facebook: Expanding the Social Networking Empire

There’s no denying that Facebook is the king of the hill. And their early-stage Series C round was all about further expanding their empire and solidifying their dominance in the market with their original pitch deck. They used a pitch deck template to present their vision and secure funding.

Facebook’s pitch deck was packed with impressive user engagement metrics that left investors speechless. They made it clear that people couldn’t get enough of their platform and were spending countless hours scrolling through news feeds and connecting with friends. It was like they had cracked the code to human connection!

But it wasn’t just about user engagement. Facebook also showcased their advertising revenue potential and future growth strategies in their original pitch deck. They wanted investors to see the massive opportunity for monetization within their platform, using a pitch deck template. After all, where there are eyeballs, there are advertisers ready to pay top dollar.

And you know what? Investors couldn’t resist jumping on board the Facebook train. With an unbeatable combination of user engagement, advertising potential, and a clear vision for future growth, Facebook successfully raised substantial funding at the Series C stage with their original pitch deck. The pitch deck template was a key factor in attracting investors.

Foursquare: Revolutionizing Location-Based Social Networking

Foursquare’s angel investor pitch deck was a game-changer in showcasing their innovative location-based social networking platform. With the rise of smartphones and the increasing reliance on mobile apps, Foursquare recognized the potential for connecting people based on their physical location.

Their pitch deck highlighted user engagement metrics, providing compelling evidence of the platform’s popularity. By demonstrating impressive numbers of active users and check-ins, Foursquare effectively conveyed the potential for targeted advertising to reach a highly engaged audience.

One of the key strengths emphasized in their presentation was Foursquare’s original pitch deck, which showcased their unique value proposition in helping businesses connect with customers. By leveraging location data, Foursquare offered companies an opportunity to target specific demographics and tailor their marketing strategies accordingly using their pitch deck template. This ability to bridge the gap between online and offline experiences struck a chord with angel investors who saw immense potential in this approach.

Thanks to their well-crafted pitch deck , Foursquare successfully secured angel investment from renowned firms like Sequoia Capital. The combination of a compelling product vision, solid user engagement metrics, and a clear understanding of market demand made them an attractive investment opportunity.

Contently: Empowering Brands with Quality Content

Contently’s angel investor pitch deck focused on their content marketing platform that connects brands with freelance writers. They recognized the growing demand for quality content in an era where digital marketing has become increasingly important for companies looking to engage with their target audience.

In their presentation, Contently showcased successful case studies that demonstrated how they had helped various companies achieve remarkable results through effective content marketing campaigns. These examples not only validated the effectiveness of Contently’s platform but also instilled confidence in potential investors about its scalability. The original pitch deck used a pitch deck template to present these case studies.

The pitch deck also highlighted Contently’s revenue generation strategies, illustrating how they were able to monetize their business model effectively. By offering a range of subscription plans and additional services, Contently ensured a steady stream of income while providing value to their clients.

The persuasive nature of Contently’s pitch deck attracted angel investment from notable firms. This enabled them to further develop their platform, expand their network of freelance writers, and solidify their position as a leading player in the content marketing industry.

Both Foursquare and Contently serve as prime examples of how startups can effectively communicate their vision and value proposition through well-crafted angel investor pitch decks. These decks not only provide insights into the companies’ offerings but also demonstrate their potential for growth and profitability.

By showcasing user engagement metrics, successful case studies, unique value propositions, and revenue generation strategies, these startups successfully attracted angel investment. Their compelling pitches paved the way for future success, allowing them to raise capital and take their businesses to new heights.

In an ever-evolving startup landscape where competition is fierce and securing funding is crucial for growth, crafting an engaging pitch deck that captures investors’ attention is paramount. Foursquare and Contently’s experiences serve as inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs looking to make a lasting impression on angel investors with their own startup pitch decks.

So whether you’re building the next groundbreaking platform like Foursquare or revolutionizing an industry with innovative solutions like Contently did for content marketing, remember that your pitch deck holds the power to unlock opportunities and propel your startup forward.

The Airbnb pitch deck is a prime example of a strong case in the startup world. It showcases how a simple idea can disrupt an entire industry and become a household name. Let’s delve into the details of this remarkable pitch deck that helped shape Airbnb’s success.

Outlining the Vision

The Airbnb pitch deck presented a clear vision for disrupting the travel industry by introducing a peer-to-peer home-sharing platform. By tapping into the unused space in people’s homes, they aimed to provide travelers with unique and affordable accommodations while creating an opportunity for homeowners to earn extra income. This innovative concept resonated with potential investors as it tackled both the market demand for affordable lodging options and the desire for personalized experiences.

Market Opportunity, Target Audience, and Competitive Analysis

To make a compelling case, Airbnb included detailed information about the market opportunity they identified in their original pitch deck. They highlighted statistics on the growing travel industry, emphasizing how their service could tap into this lucrative space. They outlined their target audience—travelers seeking authentic experiences and homeowners looking to monetize their properties. With the help of a pitch deck template, they were able to present their ideas effectively.

Furthermore, the pitch deck incorporated a competitive analysis that showcased Airbnb’s understanding of existing players in the market. By acknowledging competition from traditional hotels and other online booking platforms, they demonstrated awareness of potential challenges while also highlighting what set them apart—the unique value proposition of connecting travelers directly with local hosts.

Building Credibility through Traction and User Feedback

One crucial aspect that made Airbnb’s pitch deck stand out was its focus on early traction and user feedback. They provided data on their growth rate, showcasing how quickly they were gaining users within specific markets. This evidence of initial success helped build credibility among potential investors by demonstrating that there was already demand for their service.

Moreover, incorporating user feedback added another layer of authenticity to their pitch deck. By sharing testimonials from satisfied customers who had used Airbnb’s platform successfully, they created social proof that validated their business model. This approach not only instilled confidence in investors but also highlighted the positive impact Airbnb was making on the travel experiences of its users.

Securing Funding and Attracting Investors

Undoubtedly, Airbnb’s compelling pitch deck played a crucial role in securing initial funding and attracting investors. By presenting a well-researched market analysis, identifying target audience segments, and showcasing early traction, they painted an enticing picture of growth potential. The combination of disruptive innovation , solid market understanding, and early success made it difficult for investors to ignore the opportunity presented by Airbnb.

In fact, Guy Kawasaki, a renowned venture capitalist who reviewed thousands of pitch decks during his career, described Airbnb’s pitch deck as one of the best he had ever seen. This endorsement further emphasizes the effectiveness of their presentation in capturing investor interest and ultimately securing deals that propelled Airbnb to become a global leader in the travel industry.

Startups are known for their innovative ideas and disruptive potential. However, turning those ideas into reality requires one crucial element: funding. That’s where a well-crafted startup pitch deck comes into play.

Different Approaches to Pitching Ideas Effectively

There is no one-size-fits-all approach. Each example in this showcase demonstrates a different strategy or style that effectively conveys the unique value proposition of the company. By analyzing these pitch deck examples, entrepreneurs can gain valuable insights into crafting their own compelling presentations.

Let’s take a closer look at some great examples that showcase various approaches to pitching:

• Uber : Uber’s early pitch deck focused on highlighting the problem they aimed to solve – the difficulty of hailing a taxi in San Francisco. They used real-life stories and statistics to emphasize the demand for an alternative transportation solution. This approach helped investors understand the market need and potential scalability of their business model.
• Dropbox : Dropbox took a more visual approach with their pitch deck by incorporating screenshots and illustrations that demonstrated how their cloud storage platform worked seamlessly across devices. This visual storytelling not only made it easier for investors to grasp the product’s functionality but also showcased its simplicity and user-friendly interface.
• LinkedIn : LinkedIn’s pitch deck emphasized the professional networking aspect of their platform by showcasing testimonials from influential users who had already experienced success through connecting with others on the platform. By leveraging social proof, LinkedIn effectively conveyed credibility and demonstrated how their network could unlock opportunities for professionals worldwide.
• Buffer : Buffer’s pitch deck stood out by taking an educational approach to explain content marketing and social media management concepts while positioning their product as a solution. They used simple, engaging visuals and step-by-step explanations to help investors understand the value of their platform in a crowded market.

By showing these examples, we can see that there is no single formula for a successful pitch deck. Each startup tailored their approach to align with their unique value proposition and target audience. Entrepreneurs can draw inspiration from these examples and adapt strategies that resonate with their own business ideas.

Learning from Successful Startup Pitches

Analyzing legendary startup pitch deck examples offers valuable lessons on what works and what doesn’t. Here are key takeaways from studying these successful pitches:

• Clear problem statement : Each example showcased a clear identification of the problem they aimed to solve. By articulating the pain points experienced by potential customers, startups effectively conveyed the need for their product or service.
• Compelling storytelling : Successful pitch decks often include compelling narratives that engage investors emotionally. These stories help paint a picture of how the startup’s solution can transform lives or industries, making it easier for investors to connect with the vision.
• Market validation : Demonstrating market demand through data, testimonials, or case studies builds credibility and instills confidence in investors. Startups should provide evidence of traction, user engagement, or early adopter success stories to prove viability.
• Differentiation : To stand out in competitive markets, startups must clearly articulate their unique selling points and differentiate themselves from existing solutions or competitors. Highlighting what sets them apart helps create a compelling case for investment.
• Realistic financial projections : Pitch decks should include well-researched financial projections that showcase potential return on investment without appearing overly optimistic or unrealistic.

Remember, while studying these examples of original pitch decks is informative, it’s important not to simply copy the original pitch deck verbatim but rather adapt the strategies and techniques according to your own startup’s needs and goals.

If you’re looking to create an impactful startup pitch deck, you don’t have to start from scratch. There are plenty of ready-to-use templates available that can help you craft a compelling pitch deck that grabs attention and effectively communicates your business goals. Let’s explore some of the benefits of using pitch deck templates and how they can enhance your presentation.

Explore a Variety of Visually Appealing Designs

One of the advantages of using pitch deck templates is the wide range of visually appealing designs they offer. These templates are specifically designed to capture attention and make a lasting impression on your audience. With eye-catching graphics, modern layouts, and vibrant colors, these templates ensure that your pitch deck stands out from the crowd.

When choosing a template for your original pitch deck, consider the nature of your business and target audience. Look for designs that align with your brand image and convey professionalism while reflecting your unique style. Whether you prefer sleek and minimalist designs or bold and dynamic visuals, there’s a perfect template out there for you.

Customize Templates to Suit Your Business Needs

Pitch deck templates provide a structured format that serves as a solid foundation for your presentation. You can easily customize these templates to suit your specific business needs and goals. By tailoring the content, layout, and overall structure to match your startup’s unique value proposition, you can create a pitch deck that resonates with potential investors or partners.

Start by personalizing each slide with relevant information about your company’s background, product or service offering, market analysis, competitive advantage, financial projections, growth strategies, and original pitch deck. Remember to keep it concise yet informative – each slide should pack a punch while conveying key information effectively.

Benefit from Sample Pitch Deck Templates

If you’re new to creating pitch decks or need inspiration to kickstart your creative process, sample pitch deck templates are an excellent resource. These pre-designed templates provide real-life examples of successful startup pitch decks, giving you insights into what works and how to structure your own presentation.

By studying sample pitch deck templates, you can understand the flow of a compelling pitch deck and learn from industry best practices. Pay attention to the order of slides, the use of visuals, the balance between text and graphics, and how key messages are conveyed concisely. This knowledge will help you create a well-crafted pitch deck that effectively communicates your startup’s potential.

Make an Impact with Engaging Presentation Slides

Remember that your pitch deck is not just a collection of slides; it’s an opportunity to tell a captivating story about your startup. Each slide should contribute to the overall narrative and engage your audience throughout the presentation.

Start with a powerful title slide that grabs attention and sets the tone for your pitch. Follow it up with multiple slides that highlight different aspects of your business while maintaining a cohesive storyline. Use clear headings, bullet points, and concise statements to convey information effectively. Incorporate visually appealing graphics, charts, or infographics to support your key messages.

Consider using presentation template design tips such as contrasting colors for emphasis, consistent typography for readability, and strategic use of white space for visual clarity. The goal is to create a visually engaging slide deck that keeps investors focused on your ideas rather than getting lost in cluttered or confusing visuals.

Mastering the art of Startup Pitch Decks can indeed be a game-changer for your entrepreneurial venture. We’ve journeyed through the fundamental elements, explored legendary pitch decks like Airbnb’s, and highlighted the invaluable insights gained from them. Now, it’s your turn to captivate investors with a pitch deck that tells your startup’s unique story.

Seize the opportunity to make your startup’s value proposition irresistible. Build on the principles and examples we’ve dissected and craft your own pitch deck that’s clear, compelling, and investor-ready. Remember, your Startup Pitch Deck is more than just slides—it’s your chance to shine and secure the funding you need to make your startup dream a reality.

How long should my startup pitch deck be?

The optimal length for a startup pitch deck is usually around 10-15 slides. Keep it concise yet informative to maintain the audience’s attention.

Should I include my financial projections in the pitch deck?

It is important to provide investors with an overview of your financial projections in your original pitch deck. However, keep the details limited and focus on the key highlights.

Can I use visuals and graphics in my pitch deck?

Visuals can enhance the impact of your presentation and make it more engaging. Use charts, graphs, images, and diagrams to convey information effectively.

How should I tailor my pitch deck for different investor audiences?

Customize your pitch deck based on the interests and preferences of each investor audience. Highlight aspects that align with their investment criteria or industry focus.

Is it necessary to rehearse my pitch before presenting?

Practice is essential for delivering a confident and polished pitch. Rehearse multiple times to ensure smooth delivery and familiarity with your content.

Should I include testimonials or social proofs in my pitch deck?

Testimonials or social proofs can add credibility to your presentation. If you have positive feedback from customers or influential figures in your industry, consider including them.

Can I update my pitch deck as my startup progresses?

You should regularly update your pitch deck as your startup evolves. Keep it aligned with any new developments, achievements, or changes in strategy.

How can I make my pitch stand out from others?

To make your pitch stand out, focus on telling a compelling story that showcases the unique value proposition of your startup. Be authentic, passionate, and memorable.

What if investors ask challenging questions during the presentation?

Be prepared for challenging questions by thoroughly researching potential concerns about your business model or market. Answer confidently and transparently while highlighting mitigating factors.

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Lean Startup Methodology: Master the Art of Startup Success

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The Only 10 Slides You Need in Your Startup Pitch

Every startup needs a compelling pitch to attract investors — and capital. With a beautifully designed and intentional presentation, you can showcase the best aspects of your startup to help you secure the funding you need.

But what should you include in your presentation? And how do you design it to stand out? Guy Kawasaki has a famous startup pitch deck formula we’d love to share with you.

Guy Kawasaki’s approach to pitching

Guy Kawasaki is a Chief Evangelist, the person who promotes or advocates for a brand on a large scale. You may recognize his name, as he’s been the Chief Evangelist of Apple and currently serves as Chief Evangelist of Canva. As an evangelist, Guy’s main priority is to spread the good news about the products a brand creates.

That is exactly what he wants to help you do with your pitch: essentially act as the evangelist for your brand so investors can’t help but buy in.

When it comes to presentations, Guy also has a rule: 10-20-30. Whether you are trying to make a sale, raise capital, or develop a partnership, you should keep your pitch to ten slides, present for no longer than twenty minutes, and use a font of at least thirty points.

This philosophy has worked for Guy, who has helped grow some of the biggest brands in the world!

The 10-20-30 rule

Let’s break down Guy’s 10-20-30 rule so you can see exactly what you need in your startup pitch deck to really make the most out of your presentation:

Ten slides.  

You only need ten slides to convey your business concept, goals, financial requirements, current business position, and achievements. We’ll dig into which slides down below. According to Guy, it’s important to keep the slides to only ten because this is how you boil down the most important and impactful information — without creating a boring presentation that investors have seen a thousand times over.

Twenty minutes.  

Technical issues happen all the time, delaying the start of a meeting. People show up late, again delaying start time. Keep your message to twenty minutes to ensure you cover the basics even if your window of time gets cut short. Plus, when you get the presentation to twenty minutes, you give yourself plenty of time to dazzle your audience during post-presentation discussion.

Thirty-point font.  

Many presenters crowd their slides with unnecessary words typed out in ten-point font and then read the slides verbatim, making for a boring presentation. Avoid this common mistake by using a thirty-point font on each of your slides; this will allow you to convey important ideas while still engaging with your audience.

Now that you have the 10-20-30 rule down, let’s talk about what actually goes into your startup pitch presentation.

The Guy Kawasaki pitch deck: Which slides to include?

As you now know, Guy recommends keeping your presentation to just ten slides. This might seem like a low number, especially if you’re asking for a ton of money from investors. The key, though, is to use this small slide real estate to your advantage. Below, we’ll share some tips to help you make the most of these ten slides.

The title slide

The title slide is critical because it sets the tone for your entire presentation and provides the first impression of your business. The “title” slide is an obvious but impactful template to use for this one because it is clean, looks professional, and allows you to include essential information like your company’s name and contact information. 

For users of our presentation software , consider putting a spin on the title slide, with our headline or image and photo grid slides. Guy’s pitch deck also uses the title slide as a contact slide, so don’t be afraid to include your info here.

The problem/opportunity slide

Every business should solve a problem or improve customers’ lives in some way. Use this slide to clearly state the problem and how your business works to fix it. You can provide statistics with Beautiful.ai’s data slide or employ the numbered list or bulleted list slide to highlight all the issues that your business exists to fix. You could also use the image slide to tell the story of how your business came to be in a visually dynamic way.

The value proposition 

It is a no-brainer that you should discuss the value of your business, but common startup pitch decks overlook it! Don’t skip it. Ask yourself: What customer pain points do you fix? How do you serve your customers? What makes your business different? Use this slide to tell investors exactly why they should invest. The simplicity of our headline slide gives you the freedom to clearly state your value proposition, without crowding the slide with too much information. Want to make it visual? Add an impactful image or chart to the slide.

The underlying magic 

The investors know your unique value proposition by now, but what’s the real special sauce? What can only your team bring to life? To really score here, avoid over-relying on text. Instead, use this opportunity to show what you can do. A video slide taking the audience through your process works well here, as does a flowchart slide or a prototype, mockup, or demo.

Business model  

So, what is your plan? Any investor will want to know. Use a data slide, funnel slide , target slide , or hub and spoke slide to show your audience the different stages of your plan in a visually appealing way. You can also use a table slide or waterfall chart slide to demonstrate projected results and value over time.

Go-to market plan

It is essential to tell investors how you plan to attract new customers, as well as compete in your space. How will you launch your product/offer and start selling it? This shows your investors you know how to make this thing work, so use the right slide to showcase it. You can use the hub and spoke slide or process diagram slide to demonstrate the different elements of your strategy.

Competitive analysis 

Let your audience know that you get what the competition is doing. Use an XY plot , line chart or area chart slide to identify your performance patterns compared to those of your competitors. This is also a great opportunity to demonstrate your achievements by highlighting companies that have had the pleasure of working with you using a logo grid slide.

Management team 

Potential investors want to know about the key players on your team. Use the team slide or about us slide to help them understand your biggest asset: your people.

Financial projections and key metrics 

Be upfront: What would potential investors be getting into if they invested? Focus on a three-year, bottom-up focused forecast. Use the data comparison slide or area chart slide to demonstrate and discuss your projected growth over the years.

Current status, accomplishments, timeline, and use of funds 

The future is important, but so is the present. Use this slide to address your current business situation, what the immediate future holds, and your plans for any capital raised right now. The timeline or process slides can help you effectively communicate exciting next steps for your business. This is also a slide where you need to really think about how to condense information into what’s most important. Your investors will be at the tail-end of their 20-minute presentation, and you want to make sure you go out with a bang.

Make your startup pitch deck pitch-worthy

When you’re getting ready to pitch your startup to investors, you’re going to want a presentation that stands out. Guy Kawasaki’s 10-20-30 rule will help you make sure the most important information is clearly presented… but what about the design?

With Beautiful.ai, we’ll make sure that your presentation is dynamic, streamlined, and (most importantly) easy to design. Put your best foot forward and get the funding you need to succeed with Beautiful.ai. We have startup pitch decks and successful pitch decks from brands like Netflix, AirBnB, and more to help you get inspired.

Beautiful.ai Team

Beautiful.ai is an AI-powered presentation tool that makes it fast and easy for anyone to build clean, modern and professionally designed slides that they can be proud of.

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11 Best Presentation Deck Templates for Startups in 2024

Written by: Orana Velarde

Startups are always on the lookout for new opportunities to share their ideas with the world. In order to do this, many rely on presentation decks as a way of showcasing what their startup is all about.

From pitch decks to find angel investors, to quarterly reports to share with the team, presentation deck templates are in high demand .

A boring and dull presentation will not just bore an audience , it will also kill a startup’s opportunities. It’s much better to show an idea creatively than just how everyone else has done it before. 

For that reason, we’ve put together the 11 best presentation deck templates for startups. They are all available inside the Visme template library.

If you’re still using PowerPoint, it’s time to take a step back and try something new! But if for some reason you cannot, all these examples can easily be used as business pitch PowerPoint templates. Open one in Visme and download it as a PowerPoint file. We still believe you’ll have a better experience with Visme.

Here’s a short selection of 8 easy-to-edit presentation deck templates you can edit, share and download with Visme. View more templates below:

Pitch Deck Templates

The most common presentation decks for startups are pitch decks. These are a set of slides that introduce the company and incite investors to fund further growth.

In a pitch deck, a startup needs to showcase their idea and their vision in a way with inspires and incites action from the viewer.

These Visme pitch deck templates are inspired by real-life pitch decks used by startups which are now big companies. Try these business pitch PowerPoint templates for your next presentation deck design.

1. Presentation Deck Template Inspired by AirBnb’s Pitch Deck

The design for this presentation deck was inspired by one of AirBnb’s first pitch decks . It has been featured in many articles and roundups about the best pitch decks in startup history. The slides follow a minimal layout with a fun color combination.

The facts are displayed in short and sweet snippets, making the information easy to grasp and understand.

Customize this presentation deck template and make it your own! Edit and Download

2. Presentation Deck Template Inspired by WeWork’s Pitch Deck

The WeWork pitch deck which inspired this presentation deck template is easily one of the most amazing sets of slides you’ve ever seen. They go through every step of growth for the startup, from the original idea to how they plan to take over the world.

Use this presentation deck template if you need lots of slides to show off your startup’s amazing idea. It covers financial data, geographic data, growth charts and much more.

3. Presentation Deck Template Inspired by SEOMoz’s Pitch Deck

This professional-style presentation deck template was inspired by a SEOMoz’s pitch deck. The slides have a minimal look and feel to them but cover large amounts of data.

The charts and data widgets visualize all sorts of information about the startup’s growth and how they plan to scale up even higher.

Use this template if your startup is already established and you have lots of data to display. These slides are inspiring and can take your startup to the next level.

Report Presentation Deck Templates

Every company needs a report deck to show investors or their board of directors. When making presentations, startups can get as creative as possible with their report slides.

Below is a collection of the best presentation deck templates for reports, from annual reports to market trends reports . 

4. Sales Report Presentation Deck Template

This Sales Report presentation deck template has just enough slides to showcase monthly and yearly sales percentages. The charts and data widgets can be duplicated to show other metrics unique to your startup.

With lots of white space, this sales report is easy to follow and will make a great impression during your meeting.

Start customizing this presentation template now!

• Add your own text, images and more
• Quickly change colors and fonts
• Add interactive buttons and animations
• Customize anything to fit your design and content needs

5. Market Trends Report Presentation Deck Template

Market trend studies are a key factor in getting to know your startup’s ideal client and how they consume products like yours. Showing your team about the market trend research will inspire them to work harder and better for a common goal.

This presentation deck template has 9 no-nonsense slides where you can easily show data and figures easy to use charts and data widgets.

6. Financial Report Deck Presentation Deck Template

Financial reports are essential when presenting your investors with the facts they want to know. A financial report deck can also double as a pitch deck or be part of a pitch deck. It concentrates solely on the company’s finances and the aspects related to it.

This financial report presentation deck template has 10 slides ready to be customized by your team to make them your own. This presentation deck will make your data beautiful .

7. Annual Report Presentation Deck Template

As soon as your first year is over, your startup needs an annual report .

Why not do it in a presentation format? It’s easier to share with your board of investors and future collaborators. You just need to send them a link of the finished slide deck and they can look at it on any device.

This presentation deck template has 10 beautifully designed slides with a hexagon design which you can color code according to your brand.

Take a cue from Mike in the Visme video team. He’ll help you create better report decks with these valuable tips.

Product Presentation Deck Templates

Product presentation templates are a unique style of presentation. Their sole purpose is to present your product to the world. This isn’t a financial report or a pitch deck but more of a showcase of what your product can do and how it’s performing in the market.

Here are some great presentation deck templates to showcase your products professionally.

8. Creative Product Presentation Deck Template

This creative product presentation deck template is a little different than a standard corporate style presentation. The shapes are round and freeing and easy on the eye.

Use this presentation deck if your product is unique in its niche and uses storytelling techniques to show off its assets.

This presentation deck has 10 templates with different tools to display your product’s features. Change to colors to fit your brand and share it with prospective clients with an easily accessible link.

9. Colorful Squares Business Pitch PowerPoint Template

Sometimes you need a minimal style presentation deck template. This colorful square design is perfect for that. It's simple, clean and to the point. It has 15 slides, but you don’t need to use them all. Show off your product seamlessly with this business pitch PowerPoint template. 

Business Stats Presentation Deck Templates

Similar to a pitch deck, a business statistics presentation deck is an important resource for all startups. There are lots of different statistics that make up a business, ROI, and KPI among others .

These need to be presented in an orderly fashion that everyone can understand, from the marketing team to the high-level investors.

Here are the best business statistic presentation deck templates in the Visme template library.

10. Business Proposal Presentation Deck Template

Business proposals are all about data . This presentation deck has all the slides you need to present statistics for all areas of your company. The design style is minimal so that you can give it your own aesthetic. 

The data widgets and graphs are easy to customize and can also be color-coded.

11. Statistics Presentation Deck Template

Presenting statistics doesn’t need to be boring and dry. With this presentation deck template, your stats will be easy to grasp by everyone in the meeting room. Your financial stats will look great in these slides, you just have to add your data to the charts.

Add your brand images to the cover to personalize the design and don’t forget to add your logo .

Frequently Asked Questions about Presentations for Startups and Businesses

What is a slide or presentation deck.

The slide deck or presentation deck is essentially the same but has different names. Both instances describe a collection of designed slides in a digital presentation format; organized to show a story from beginning to end .

Their ultimate purpose is to present information  to an individual or a group about a specific subject, idea or project.

Why Is a Presentation Called a Deck?

To answer this question, we must go back in time. Before you could get on Google and search for business pitch PowerPoint templates, teachers and business people had other solutions for presenting topics , ideas or research.

Before computers, slide decks and presentation decks were two different things, not interchangeable as they are today. The term “deck” comes from playing and/or tarot cards, as both are piled into decks. ‘Deck’ essentially means; a pile or collection of same-sized cards stacked together in an orderly fashion.

In advertising and marketing meeting rooms of the 50s and 60s, presentation decks were big and bulky cardboard designs on stands. These were used to visually accompany pitch speeches. When slide projectors came into the scene, the cardboard presentation decks made way for slide decks.

A slide deck in the 70s was a rectangular box with clear slides mounted on cardboard frames, kept in the order they were to be presented. The slide projector magnified the design onto a large white wall or projection screen.

With the introduction of PowerPoint, the presentation deck and slide deck became one digital sameness.

How Do You Make a Presentation Deck?

To make a presentation deck, you must take care of a few things. Here’s a rundown, all doable with Visme;

• Define a purpose and goal.
• Collect data and research to present.
• Write a clear presentation outline .
• Mind map the presentation slides design.
• Find and brand presentation templates . Set it all up with your data, content and brand assets.
• Make it interactive .
• Share with your audience, and track performance.

Here’s a video that will help you design a presentation deck:

What Is a Deck vs Presentation?

There isn’t much difference between a deck and a presentation. Decks are a collection of slides used as a visual aid during presentations. On the other hand, a presentation can be done with or without slide decks.

For example, presentations can come in the form of audio, video, and other formats. Also, presentations can be pre-recorded and shared in different formats or done in-person.

Create Your Own Presentation Decks For Your Startup

Creating a good looking presentation is easy with Visme. All you need to do is choose a presentation deck template and insert your own content and data. With the integrated brand kit , anyone in your team can do it.

Teamwork has never been easier, now you can create presentations together at every level with Visme Teams. Give feedback and add comments easily in the Visme editor. 

Get out of that PowerPoint rut and start creating better presentations with Visme.

Create beautiful presentations faster with Visme.

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About the Author

Orana is a multi-faceted creative. She is a content writer, artist, and designer. She travels the world with her family and is currently in Istanbul. Find out more about her work at oranavelarde.com

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How to Start a Presentation [+ Examples]

Updated: August 15, 2024

Published: September 13, 2023

The first step in mastering the art of delivering powerful presentations is understanding how to start a presentation properly.

In this post, you'll discover strategies for crafting a solid presentation opening, designing an impactful opening slide, and delivering a memorable presentation.

Table of Contents

Why Your Presentation Opening Matters

How to start a presentation, opening slide examples, best practices for starting a presentation.

Free Presentation & Public Speaking Kit

Everything you need to become more comfortable and effective during your next presentation, including:

• Free Guide on Best Practices
• PowerPoint Presentation Templates
• Video Examples of Great Speakers

The opening of your presentation sets the tone for your entire session.

Within the first few minutes, most of your audience will decide whether they find your expertise, experience, and topic compelling enough to warrant their attention.

Think of it this way: Your opening is a preview of your presentation like a trailer is a preview of a movie. If the five-minute trailer isn’t engaging or impactful, why should the audience bother sitting through the half-hour movie?

Your opening shapes the expectations of your audience and entices them to stay engaged throughout the session.

And although you’ll still need to work to maintain their attention, getting it right from the start will spare you the challenge of re-engaging a disinterested audience right from the beginning of your presentation.

This opening statement is powerful because rather than lead with his “credentials” or “accolades,” as the audience most likely expects, he defies that expectation.

He creates a sense of intrigue that instantly piques the audience's curiosity and compels them to pay closer attention.

Infuse humor.

In Tom Thum's TedTalk titled Beatbox Brilliance , he sets a lighthearted tone by stepping on stage wearing oversized sunglasses and declaring, “My name is Tom, and I've come here today to come clean about what I do for money.”

As you might expect, this humorous approach not only elicits laughter but also surprises the audience, who are intrigued and pleasantly surprised at the tone he sets for the presentation.

Ask a question.

Graham Shaw's presentation titled “ Why people believe they can’t draw - and how to prove they can ” begins with, “Hi, I've got a question for you - how many people here would say they can draw?”

Seeing as this is a relatively lighthearted question that’s simple to answer, the audience responds immediately.

Now, what makes this a powerful opening technique is that Graham then goes on to say:

“When people say they can’t draw, I think it's more to do with beliefs rather than talent and ability. When you say you can’t draw, that’s just an illusion, and today I’d like to prove that to you.”

By immediately challenging a widely held belief among the audience and promising to debunk it during the presentation, he employs a powerful technique that keeps the audience fully engaged.

This approach makes the audience feel “invested” in the outcome of the presentation and curious as to whether he can back up his claim.

2. Tell your audience why they should be listening to you.

Getting your audience’s attention is just one part of the equation. Once you have it, you must also explain why they should “keep” listening to you. Here are some ways to do this:

Highlight relevant personal experience.

In Phil Waknell’s opening section, he talks about how he’s spent the last ten years helping conference speakers, business leaders, and entrepreneurs prepare and deliver powerful presentations .

This immediately signals to the audience that he’s someone worth listening to and positions him as a credible source of insights based on the wealth of experience he has gathered.

Highlight your expertise.

During the opening section of Dr. Lara Boyd’s presentation titled “ After watching this, your brain will not be the same ,” she says, “I’m Dr. Lara Boyd, and I’m a brain researcher here at the University of British Columbia.”

Sharing her credentials as a brain researcher is crucial to gaining her audience's trust — especially considering the technicality of her topic.

But even while creating presentations outside fields like brain research, sharing qualifications and credentials in your opening section can be a powerful technique.

This helps you position yourself as a credible authority and reinforcing your audience's confidence in your ability to deliver valuable information.

Tell your audience what’s in it for them.

In Mel Robbins’ opening section for her presentation titled “ How to stop screwing yourself over ,” she ends her introduction by saying:

“I’m here for you. I’m going to tell you everything I know in less than 18 minutes about how to get what you want.”

Although she started the section by highlighting her experiences and expertise, she went further by explicitly stating the benefits her audience can expect from her presentation.

Doing this is a great way to create a compelling reason for your audience to invest their time and attention and emphasize the value of the presentation you’re about to deliver.

3. Introduce your topic.

If your topic is relatively simple to grasp or your audience is particularly knowledgeable, introducing your topic can be as easy as “Today, I’m going to be talking to you about how we’ve built a six-figure software company in 6 months.”

However, if your topic is more complex or unfamiliar to the audience, you must do a bit more heavy lifting in your opening section.

For example, Sam Bern’s “ My philosophy for a happy life ” presentation discusses how he lives a happy life despite having Progeria disease.

However, because this condition might be unfamiliar to some audience members, he takes some time in his opening section to talk about the illness before delving into the meat of his presentation.

Similarly, if you’re presenting on a complex topic or to an audience that isn’t knowledgeable, it’s essential to consider this when crafting your opening section.

4. Leverage storytelling.

Stories can create immersive experiences that captivate the audience and convey a core message.

For example, in the opening section of Sam Bern's presentation, he tells a story about his struggles while trying to achieve his goal of becoming a drummer in his school marching band, despite living with Progeria disease.

This sets the tone for his entire presentation by conveying an inspiring message of fighting against and succeeding despite the odds.

Another great example is the opening section of Josh Kaufman’s presentation, titled “ The First 20 Hours — how to learn anything ,” where he tells a story about his experience as a time-strapped first-time parent.

This story enhances the presentation as Josh eventually shares that this experience triggered his interest in studying how to become an efficient learner.

Finally, Amy Morins’s presentation “ The Secret of Becoming Mentally Strong ” is another excellent example of leveraging storytelling.

Amy starts her presentation with a thought-provoking story about observing a Facebook friend's seemingly perfect life.

She then highlights how such comparisons can lead to negative thought patterns and emphasizes the importance of cultivating mental resilience.

This relatable story not only resonates with her audience but also sets the stage for her message on building inner strength.

All these presentations are great examples that highlight how incorporating story-telling in your openings can be a powerful tool for creating memorable and impactful presentations.

Your presentation slides play a crucial role in determining the impact and effectiveness of your presentation.

In this section, you’ll find examples of 8 powerful opening slides across various use cases that not just support but enhance the presentation openings:

1. “ Blackboard is Getting an Upgrade ”

Although these are very different methods of injecting humor at the start of a presentation, they show how infusing humor can be a powerful tool for adding a touch of personality and creating a more enjoyable presentation for the audience.

4. Keep it short and sweet.

While it's important not to rush through the start of your presentation, keeping your opening concise is equally important. But remember, concise does not mean sacrificing substance; it simply means delivering information efficiently.

Essentially, you want an opening section that allows you to create a solid initial impression without losing the audience's interest.

So, how long should this opening secretion be?

Most successful presentation openings are under three minutes, and many are shorter, often clocking in at under one minute.

5. Embrace authenticity.

Contrary to popular belief, there isn't a specific personality that makes someone a better presenter. In fact, the most impactful presentations have been delivered by individuals with diverse characters.

Take, for instance, the contrasting styles of Tom Thum’s irreverent humor and animated mannerisms and Sam Bern, who adopts a relaxed and conversational approach. Despite their differences, both speakers have garnered millions of views for their talks.

So, rather than emulating or mimicking their presentations, the key takeaway is to embrace authenticity.

Allow your personality to shine through, lean on your strengths, and be human in your delivery.

Mastering the Art of Captivating Presentations

Starting a presentation is a skill that is as much an art as it is a science. Thankfully, it is also a skill that can be learned and honed.

By implementing the strategies in this guide and refining them through experience, you’ll become a master at delivering impactful presentations that command attention and leave a lasting impression.

All from the moment you step onto the stage.

Don't forget to share this post!

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Blog Data Visualization 120+ Presentation Ideas, Topics & Example

120+ Presentation Ideas, Topics & Example

Written by: Ryan McCready May 08, 2023

Did you know that 46% of people can’t sit through a presentation without losing focus? 

That’s why I wanted to learn how to make a presentation that will captivate an audience. After looking at hundreds of different authors, topics and designs, I’ve assembled over 100 presentation ideas and tips on how to design a compelling presentation for:

• Social media
• Online courses
• Pitch decks
• Lead generation

In this blog, you’ll find 120+ presentation ideas, design tips and examples to help you create an awesome presentations slide deck for your next presentation.

To start off, here’s a video on the 10 essential presentation design tips to make sure that your presentations don’t fall under the YAWN category.

1. Use a minimalist presentation theme

CREATE THIS PRESENTATION TEMPLATE

The best designs can also be some of the simplest you see. In the Airbnb pitch deck below, they use a minimalist color scheme and font selection.

A minimalist design is sleek, organized and places the most important thing in focus: your information. There are no distracting stock images, icons, or content. Everything on this unique presentation feels like it belongs and works together perfectly. 

Learn how to customize this template:

2. Use a consistent design motif throughout your presentation

Here’s a go-to tip to for a cohesive presentation design: use a design motif. The motif could be a recurring shape (like circles, lines or arrows) or symbol (like a leaf for “growth” or a mountain for “goals”). For more ideas, check out our guide to common symbols and meanings used in design .

For example, this  presentation template uses circles as a design motif. The same circle icon is used in three different colors to add a bubbly touch to the design. The team photos are also incorporated using circle frames:

3. Use an eye-catching presentation background image

Like with any type of design work, you should want to catch the eye of your audience. In a presentation, this should be done from the beginning with a  compelling background image or a color gradient.

In this presentation template, the creators were able to do just that with a landscape photo. When a presentation like this is seen on social media, during a webinar or in person, your audience will definitely listen up.

4. Visualize your points with icons

Icons are the perfect visuals to include in presentations. They’re compact and can convey a concept to your audience at a glance. You can even combine multiple icons to create custom illustrations for your slides. 

Use the Icon Search in Venngage to find illustrated and flat icons:

5. Use a black & white color scheme for a corporate presentation design

In the presentation below there are only two colors used: black and white. Now, you might be worried that only using two colors is boring, but it all comes down to balance.

Playing off the ideas of classic minimalism, the designer made this presentation look sleek and professional. And now your content can be the main attraction of your presentation as well!

6. Repurpose your slide deck into an infographic 

Different types of presentations serve different purposes and sometimes it helps to work smarter, not harder when you are creating a unique presentation. In fact, the spacing, layout, and style used in this presentation makes it easy to repurpose the same images into an infographic.

This allows you to create two unique pieces of content from one idea!  Which is exactly what  Officevibe did .

Join Venngage’s CEO, Eugene Woo, to learn how you can design impactful infographics that will help maintain trust, increase productivity and inspire action in your team.

SIGN UP NOW

7. Break your genre mold for a fun presentation idea

When I first clicked on this creative presentation from SEMrush, I was not expecting to be transported into a comic book. I’m glad I clicked because it may be the most unique slide deck I have ever seen. Going this extreme with your presentation ideas may seem a bit risky, but to be able to break the mold in this age of cookie-cutter presentations is worth it.

To leave a lasting impression on your audience, consider transforming your slides into an interactive presentation. Here are 15  interactive presentation ideas  to enhance interactivity and engagement.

8. Make your presentation cover slide count

As I was scrolling through all of the presentations, this one made me stop in my tracks. It could be that I have a life-long love of Star Wars, or it could be that their presentation cover slide was designed to do just that: grab your attention. That’s why you should not stick with a boring, text-only title slide. Don’t be afraid to use icons and illustrations to make a statement.

9.  Alternate slide layouts to keep your presentation engaging

Keeping your audience engaged throughout an entire presentation is hard, even if you have been working on your presentation skills . No one wants to look at slides that look exactly the same for an hour. But on the other hand, you can’t create a unique masterpiece for each slide.

That’s why I’m very impressed with what the designers did in the presentation example above. They use a consistent visual theme on each slide, but alternate between vertical and horizontal orientations.

The swapping of orientations will show people that the presentation is progressing nicely. It can help you make a strong, almost physical, distinction between ideas, sections or topics.  

10. Make your audience laugh, or at least chuckle

Sometimes you need to not take your business presentations too seriously. Not sure what I mean? Go check out slide number 10 on this slide deck below.

If you did not actually laugh out loud, then I don’t know what to tell you. Small illustrated embellishments can be very powerful because they evoke an emotional response and to gain your audience’s trust.

Did you know 70% of employees think that giving a good presentation is an essential workplace skill? Check out the top qualities of awesome presentations and learn all about how to make a good presentation to help you nail that captivating delivery.

11. Supplement your presentation with printed materials

Printed takeaways (such as brochures and business cards ) give audience members a chance to take home the most important elements of your presentation in a format they can easily access without using a computer. Make sure you brand these materials in a way that’s visually consistent with your slide deck, with the same color scheme, icons, and other iconic features; otherwise, your recipients will just end up scratching their heads.

If you’re giving people multiple materials, try packaging them all into one convenient presentation folder. There are over 100 styles with a wide range of custom options, so feel free to get creative and make your folder stand out. Sometimes a unique die cut or an unusual stock is all you need to make something truly memorable. Here are some brochure templates to get you started.

12. Only use one chart or graphic per slide 

Having too much information on a slide is the easiest way to lose the focus of your audience. This is especially common when people are using graphs, charts or tables .

In this creative slide deck, the author made sure to only include one focal point per slide, and I applaud them for it. I know this may sound like a simple presentation tip, but I have seen many people lose their audience because the slides are too complex.

13. Keep your employee engagement presentations light   

Sometimes you need to get away from stuffy, professional presentation ideas to capture your audience’s attention. In this case, Officevibe used some very colorful and playful illustrations to stand out from the crowd.

I mean, who could not love the plant with a face on slide number 9? And if you want to see some more icons and illustrations like this, be sure to check out our article on how to tell a story with icons.

14.  Feature a map when talking about locations

Including a map in your creative presentations is a fantastic idea! Not only do they make an interesting focal point for your slide layout, they also make location-based information easier to understand.

This cool presentation example by our pro designers at Venngage uses maps to visualize information. This map both dominates the screen, and also displays all the locations being covered.

15. Use a font that is large and in charge 

If you are presenting to a small group or a packed stadium, make sure your audience can see your text! Use a large and in charge font that can be read from even the nosebleed seats. 

Honestly, you really never know where your unique presentation will be seen. It could be seen in a conference room or conference hall, and everything in between. Be ready to present almost anywhere with a bold and easy to read font.

16. Use pop culture references to build a fun presentation 

Using a meme or pop culture reference is another way that you can jive with your audience. It can be used to quickly get a point across without saying a word or create a moment that you can connect with the room. For example in this presentation, they used Napoleon Dynamite to give the audience feelings of nostalgia.

17. Use more than one font weight on your presentation cover slide

Just like you would never use one font on an infographic, you should never use just one font on your presentation (for more tips, read our guide on how to choose fonts ). In this presentation example from HubSpot, they use a bunch of different font weights to add emphasis to key words and ideas.

As you can see, they use a bold font on the presentation cover to bring attention to Steve Jobs name. This makes it easy for the audience to know what your presentation is going to be about from the beginning as well. 

18. Use a color theme for each idea 

Color is another extremely powerful nonverbal tool that you can use to guide your audience. By using a different color for each section of your creative presentation, Dell is able to clearly indicate when they are switching points or ideas.  Going from green to orange, and even red almost effortlessly.

This is a great way to design a list, guide, or a  how-to presentation as well. And each color can be assigned to a different step or number with ease. 

Need help picking the perfect color palette? Start here !

19. Use illustrations instead of pictures 

An easy way to keep your design consistent throughout your unique presentation is to use illustrations like in this slide deck by Domo.

They used illustrations instead of pictures to show off their subject on slide numbers 4-10 and it looks fantastic. This will ensure that the audience focuses on the content, instead of just the photo they could have used.

It also helps that illustrations are a top design trend for 2020 .

20. Use contrasting colors to compare two perspectives or sides of an argument 

Contrasting colors can be used to quickly show each side of topic or an argument. For example in this presentation, they use this trick to show the difference between their company and the competition.

They use color very effectively in this example to show their company is better, in a nonverbal way. With a lighter color and illustrated icons, the company is able to position them as the better choice. All without saying a word.  

Now if they would have used similar colors, or a single color the effect wouldn’t have been as strong or noticeable.

21. Include your own personal interests

This example is one of the most interesting and cool presentations I have seen in awhile, so I suggest checking out the entire thing. The creator inserts a bunch of his personal interests into the slide to make his presentation about education fun and relatable. And they even use a Super Mario Bros inspired presentation cover, so you know it has to be fantastic! 

22. Try to stick to groups of three 

How many major ideas should be present on your presentation aid? Never break your  presentation layout down into anything more than thirds. This means there should be at most three columns, three icons, three ideas and so on.  A great example of this idea starts on slide number 9 in this slide deck and continues throughout the rest of the presentation.

 Here is a great three columned slide template to get started with.

23. Add a timeline to help visualize ideas 

One of the best ways to visualize a complex process or historical event is to use a timeline presentation. A list of all the steps or events is just not going to cut it in a professional setting. You need to find an engaging way to visualize the information.

Take the presentation example above , where they outline the rise and fall of Athens in a visually stimulating way.

24. Label your graphs & charts 

If the people at Pollen VC had not added those annotations to the graphs on slide number 5, I would have definitely not known what to make of that graph.

But when you combine the visuals on a graph with descriptive text, the graph is able to paint a picture for your audience. So make your graphs easy to understand by annotating them (this is a chart design best practice ).

Create a free graph right here, right now!

25. White font over pictures just works 

There is a reason that you see so many quotes or sayings in a white font that are then overlaid on an image. That it is because it just works in so many situations and the text is very easy to read on any image.

If you do not believe me, look at the slide deck example above where they use a white font with a few different fonts and about 100 images. Plus the presentation template is chocked full of other tips on how to create a winning slideshow.

26. Color code your points across the whole presentation 

Here is another example of a presentation that uses color to keep their points organized. In this case, they use 10 different pastel colors to match the 10 different tips for employee engagement .

Check out our guide for how to pick the best colors for your visuals .

27.  Use a simple flow chart to break down a process

If you’re a fan of the movie Step Brothers , you may have heard of Prestige Worldwide before. In this fun presentation example they are back to sell you on their business model and growth plans.

This time, the presentation will be effective because it actually talks about what the business does.

Instead of making a music video, they use a helpful flowchart template to explain their business model. I would recommend following their lead and creating a dynamic flow chart to visually break down any process.  Try making your own flowchart  with Venngage.

28. Make your slide deck mobile friendly 

As more people move to mobile as their main device each year, making your presentations mobile-friendly is becoming increasingly important. This means that the text is large and there aren’t too many small details, so everything can scale down. Just like in this presentation example from the creators at Globoforce.

29. Don’t be afraid to include too many examples 

If you are presenting a complex idea to a group, especially a large audience, I would recommend having a ton of good examples. Now, I would try not to overdo it, but having too many it is better than having too few.

In this creative presentation, the people at With Company spend about 20 slides just giving great examples of prototyping. It doesn’t feel too repetitive because they all are useful and informative examples.

30.  Use consistent visual styles for an elegant presentation design

I have already written extensively about using icons in all of your design projects . I haven’t talked as much about matching icons to your presentation template.

But that’s just as important, especially if you want to create a professional presentation for your audience.

As you can see in the example above, the designer used minimalist icons that fit the slide designs. All of the other graphics, charts and visual elements fit together nicely as well.

Plus the icons don’t distract from the content, which could ruin a stellar presentation.

31. Use a consistent presentation layout 

In this example from Bannersnack, they use a consistent layout on each of their slides to help with the flow by using the same margins and text layout.

It’s a solid presentation example because they help the user know where to look immediately. It may seem like they are playing it safe, but anything that can speed up the time it takes for a user to read the content of the slides, the better.

32. Use loud colors as much as possible 

This is one of my favorite presentations because of the highlighter yellow they chose to use as their main color. It is actually very similar to one that I saw presented live a few years ago and I have used this same approach in a few presentations ideas of my own.

33. Pull your design motif from your content 

If you are talking about an interesting topic, why not use the topic as the main design motif in your creative slide deck? For example, in this presentation about sketchbooks, the creator uses a sketchy, handwritten motif. It is something simple that helps the audience connect with the topic. Plus, it allows you to include a ton of great examples.

34. Utilize a call & answer cadence

In this SlideShare about how to create a presentation, Peter Zvirinsky uses a two-step process to present a point. First, he presents the header presentation tip in a speech bubble. Then he shows a supporting point in a responding speech bubble. This gives the presentation a conversational flow.

35. Repurpose ebook content into a creative presentation

This slide deck was adapted perfectly from a Seth Godin ebook into the presentation example you see above. In the slide deck, they take a piece of content that would usually take a while to read and cut it down to a few minutes. Just remember to include only the most important ideas, and try to present them in a fresh way.

36. Add a timed outline to your presentation

We have already covered how important it is to have a table of contents in your slides but this takes it a bit further. On the second slide of the presentation below, the creator added how long each of the slides should take.

This is great because it helps your audience know the pace the presentation will take and will help keep them engaged. It also will help them identify the most important and in-depth parts of the presentation from the beginning.

37. Use a “next steps” slide to direct your audience

One of the worst things you can do as a presenter is to leave your audience without any idea of what to do next. A presentation should never just end because you ran out of slides.

Instead, use a conclusion or “next steps” slide like in the example above to finish your presentation. Sum up some of your main points, tell your audience where they can get more information, and push them to take action.

38. Go a bit crazy with the design 

Sometimes you need to throw convention to the wind to create something unforgettable. This presentation from Velocity Partners does just that, and I think it is one of my favorite ones from this entire roundup.

They use unconventional typography, quirky icons, and unusual presentation layout to make each slide surprising.

39. Make your slide deck easy to share 

If you are looking to get a lot of eyes on your presentation I would make sure people will want to share it on social media. How do you do that? By presenting new and interesting value. This means your content needs to answer a common question and your design needs to be clutter-free. For example, look at this very social media-friendly. The slides are simple and answer questions directly.

40.  Use shapes to integrate your photos into the slides

Want to include a bunch of images in your presentation? I say do it!

Now most of the time you would add a raw image directly to your slide. However, if you want to present images in a professional way I would recommend using an image frame .

Like in the example above, you can use these frame to create a collage of images almost instantly. Or provide a similar visual theme to all of your slides.  

Overall, I believe it’s a great way to add a new visual component to your presentation.

41. Hijack someone’s influence in your marketing slides

If you are stuck in the brainstorming phase of your presentation, focusing on a brand or influencer is a great place to start. It could be a case study, a collection of ideas or just some quotes from the influencer. But what makes it effective is that the audience knows the influencer and trusts them. And you are able to hijack their awareness or influence.

42. Put y our logo on every slide 

Whether you have a brand as powerful as Moz, or you are just getting started, you should always have your logo on each slide. You really never know where a presentation is going to end up–or what parts of it will! In this presentation template, Moz does a good job of including their branding and such to get others interested in Moz Local. Don’t have a logo yet? Our logo design tips will help you create a logo that’s iconic and will stand the test of time.

43. Lead your audience to it 

In this example, the creator uses something very similar to the call and answer approach I mentioned above, but with a little twist. Instead of just throwing all the info up at once, they use three slides to build to a particular point and include a subtle call to action in the third slide.

44. Make visuals the focal point of your presentation slides

If you haven’t noticed, illustrated icons are having a revival in 2020 and beyond. This is likely because minimalist icons dominated the design world for the past decade. And now people want something new.

Brands also like using illustrated icons because they are seen as genuine and fun.

And because they are so eye-catching you can use them as focal points in your presentation slides. Just like they did in the creative presentation example above.

Picking the perfect icon is tough, learn how you can use infographic icons like a pro.

45. Use a quirky presentation theme 

In this slide deck, the authors show you how to become an Animation Ninja…and they use ninja graphics and icons extensively. This caught my eye immediately because of the amount of work that I knew was behind this. It takes a lot of time and effort to line all of the content and graphic up to create a cohesive theme, but the payoff can be massively worth it.

46. Use a consistent background image 

I am a big fan of the way that Aleyda Solís uses only a single presentation background image throughout her presentation.

By using this tactic the audience is able to focus on what is happening in the foreground. Plus it gives the whole presentation a different feel than all the other ones I have looked at.

47. Summarize your points at the end

It’s a good idea to summarize your points before you end your presentation , especially if you’ve covered a lot of information. In this presentation example, Deanta summarizes exactly what they do on slide numbers 16-18. They also provide their contact information in case their audience has any more questions. I think that every presentation should use this same approach, especially the ones you are presenting outside of your company.

48. Use a minimalist presentation template

This slide deck from QuickBooks uses a minimalist theme to help the audience focus on what is important, the content.

There were only five colors used in the entire presentation and the graphics were simple line drawings. This made it easy to read and very pleasing to the eyes.

49. Split your slides length-wise 

Here is a simple template you can use to separate your headers, or main points, from your body text in a presentation.

Instead of using a solid presentation background, split the slide in half like Sequoia did in their slide deck. They used their brand color for the title portion and a neutral white for the supporting content.

Use this company report template to create a very similar slide right now!

50.  Embrace a bold color scheme throughout your presentation

My favorite part of the creative presentation example above is the use of complementary colors in each slide. As you can see, not one of the slides use the same color scheme but they all feel related connected.

This approach can be used to make your presentation visually unique, without abandoning a cohesive theme or idea.

51. Put text in the top left corner 

English speakers will instinctively try to read text from a top to bottom, left to right orientation. I would recommend using a left alignment for your text and adding additional things from top to bottom, just like Aaron Irizarry did in this presentation layout.

52. Break up your tables 

A plain table with a white background with black or gray lines are difficult to read on a computer screen, so why would you create one for viewing on a large presentation screen? You shouldn’t!

Instead, follow Intuit’s lead and break up the rows with a bit of color. This applies to data visualization in general , but think it is even more important when it comes to presentations.

53.  Present connected information in a visually similar way

In this startup pitch presentation example, they have a ton of information to get through. But they present their most important slides, the problem and solution, in a visually similar way.

By using a similar layout on each slide, the audience will be able to quickly make a connection. If you want to present two connected pieces of information, use this tactic.

From the font to the layout, it’s all basically the same. The main message they’re trying to impart is a lot more impactful to the reader.

If they would have used two wildly different presentation layouts, the message may have been lost.

54. Roundup expert tips into one presentation 

If you are looking for useful insights into the topic of your presentation, talk to some influencers in your niche. These are called “expert roundups” in the content marketing world and they are incredibly shareable.

Plus, they are pretty easy to create and have a great shelf life. In the example above, we talked to a gaggle of marketing experts about what makes a SlideShare great.

55. Use bold & brash colors throughout 

B old colors usually make your presentation template a lot easier to read and remember. Like at this slide deck made by our talented designers, which doesn’t shy away from bright, bold colors.

Want to pick a perfect color palette for your presentation? Read this blog on the do’s and don’ts of infographic color selection .

56. Make your graphs easy to read & interpret 

It should not require a Master’s degree in statistics to understand the graphs that someone uses in a presentation. Instead, the axis should be easy to read, the colors should enforce the point, and the data should be clearly plotted.

For example, in this presentation on slide numbers 14 and 25, the graphs nail all of those tips perfectly.

57. Condense your presentation into a memorable line 

If you can, try condensing your information into a simple one-liner to help the message stick with your audience. In slide number 36 of this presentation, Mika Aldaba does just that and shows that “Facts + Feelings = Data Storytelling.”

He does this again a few times throughout the presentation with other memorable one-liners.

58.  Bring attention to important figures with colorful icons

If you’re including a figure or number on your slides, I’m guessing you want the audience to actually see it.

That’s why I would recommend using an icon or graphic to highlight that figure. Maybe use a color or icon that isn’t used anywhere else in the presentation to make sure it really jumps off the screen.

In the presentation example above, all that’s used is a simple circle to make each figure a focal point. It’s really that easy, but many people leave it out of their presentations.

59. Anchor Your Text With Icons 

Having your text or content floating out in the white space of your presentation is not a good look.

Instead, you should use anchor icons to give the text something to hold onto and draw the audience’s eye. If you need some examples of good anchor icons, check out slide numbers 4, 7 and 9 in this presentation example.

60. Add semi-opaque lettering as a presentation background 

A neat way to keep your slide deck organized is to number your slides or points using semi-opaque lettering in the background.

Then, place your slide content on top of the opaque lettering. This helps your audience know that you are on the same point or idea, plus it just looks really good when done right.

61. Use simple or minimalist borders

An easy way to class up your slides is to put a border around your text. Take this presentation from Venngage that uses a couple of different types of borders to make their slides look professional.

Plus it helps keep all of your content contained on the slide!

62. Feature one idea per slide

Nothing is worse than a confusing, cluttered slide. Instead of trying to pack a bunch of ideas into one slide, focus on one core idea on each slide. If you need to flesh the idea out, just make another slide. 

Having trouble condensing your slides? Our presentation design guide can help you summarize your presentations and convey a singular idea with a clear focus.

63. Keep your style consistent with your brand 

You might be tempted to switch up the style of your creative presentations each time, but think again. If your brand is known for fun and lighthearted content, like Officevibe, let that be your style throughout all of the presentations you publish under that brand. This will make your slide decks recognizable and will enforce your brand’s message .

64. Use accent fonts to emphasize important numbers

Some people hate pie charts with a passion, but I think they are perfect for presentations. Especially if you want to bring attention to a figure or percentage point .

In this simple example, the pie charts are used to visualize each figure in an interesting way. Plus the pie charts fit the circular and fun theme of the rest of the presentation very well.

65. Use patterned and textured presentation backgrounds

Source  

Adding some subtle textures, icons or shapes to the presentation background can help make your slides more interesting. This is especially effective when you are only showing one point per slide, because it makes the slide design less sparse.

You can even switch up the colors on your shapes or textures to match the theme of the slide like DesignMantic did in this presentation.

66. Illustrate complex or confusing concepts with icons 

Ideally, you don’t want every slide in your deck to just be text. Instead, switch things up every few slides by using just pictures.

This slide deck by Gluwa uses icons to create little diagrams to illustrate their presentation ideas. Their slides still communicate concepts to the audience, but in a new way.

67. Overlay stock photos with color 

One problem many people encounter when creating a presentation or slide decks are finding photos with a consistent style. An easy way to edit photos to make them consistent is to add a transparent color overlay. In this example, Change Sciences uses a blue overlay on all of their photos. Plus, the color you choose can also help convey a particular mood.

68. Use black and white blocks 

An easy way to make your text pop, particularly on a photo background, is to use white font on a black blog background (and vise-versa). Check out this slide deck by Abhishek Shah, which uses this trick in an effective way.  

Now if you want to become a better leader this year, check out some of our favorite leadership infographics .

69. Use photos with similar filters 

Using a bunch of photos with wildly different filters can be jarring in a business presentation. To maintain a consistent flow, use photos with a similar filter and color saturation.

Take a look at this example from HubSpot across slide numbers 1-6 and you can see what I mean.

70. Visualize your points with diagrams 

Sometimes the best way to get your point across is to throw some diagrams into the presentation mix. But be sure to make is something that the audience can pick up on in three to five seconds tops.

For example, Jan Rezab uses a diagram to illustrate what takes up time in our lives on slide numbers 4, 5, 7 and 9!

71. Get experts to share tips

If you want to provide even more value to your audience than you can offer yourself, why not call in some expert reinforcement? See what experts in your field have to say on the topic of your presentation and include their tips and insights. Plus you can hijack their influence and expand your audience fairly quickly. 

72. Mimic a popular presentation style 

Uber’s pitch deck helped them raise millions of dollars in venture capital eventually leading to the glorious moment when they IPOed this year.

Aside from our sleek design upgrade (hey, we love good design!), this pitch deck template is the exact same one that Uber used to go from Idea to IPO.

And who knows? Maybe you might start the next Uber. But to raise money, you will need to create flawless business pitch decks to impress investors and raise those dollars.

73. Plan your presentation idea ahead of time

I know that minimalist designs are all the rage this year, but there is a big difference between a well-thought-out minimalist design and a lazy design without the finish touches. The same goes for a cluttered design with too many things going on at once.

That’s why it’s worth it to take the time to really plan out your presentation ideas and design concepts. Take this slide deck about storytelling by HighSpark. A quick glance will tell you that they put a lot of thought into designing their slides.

74.  Use tables to compare your brand to the competition in sales presentations/pitch decks

There are a lot of ways to visually compare similar things in this day and age. You could use a comparison infographic , or even a venn diagram!

However, when it comes to presentations I think that the simple table is best. Especially if you are comparing more than two things, like in this presentation example.

With a table, you can clearly lay out all the pros and cons of each idea, brand or topic without it being overwhelming to the audience. Plus, virtually everyone knows how to follow a table, so your information will be easy to consume.  

See more examples of the best pitch decks .

75. Blend icons & content effortlessly

Usually, icons are used as eye-catching objects detectors or anchors for text in a slideshow. But they can be used for so much more than that!

Like in this marketing presentation from Constant Contact they are very large but do not distract from the content.

76. Make your audience want more 

This tactic has been used by everyone since the idea of marketing was invented (or close to that). In this presentation example called “100 Growth Hacks, 100 Days” the creator only shows the audience the first 10 days of it and then uses a call to action at the end of the presentation to encourage them to seek out the rest.

The only risk with these kinds of presentation ideas is if your initial content is not great, you can’t expect your audience to seek out more information.

77. Use memes (for real, though) 

Usually, memes do not have a place in a serious business setting, so maybe don’t use them for formal presentations. But if you’re covering a lighter topic, or if you’re going for a fun presentation that will connect with your audience, don’t be afraid to throw a meme or two into the mix.

The audience immediately knows what you are trying to say when you use a popular meme in your presentation. For example, on slide number 7, the creator uses a meme to show that it will be hard to create great content

78.  Include a slide that introduces your team in pitch decks

In this presentation example, the creators decided to include their team on a slide. I think it’s a great gesture.

Showing your team can help the audience put a face to your brand and make the whole company feel more genuine. So if there is a team that has helped you get where you are today, give them some recognition!

79. Feature a complementary color palette

Even though I am not a formally trained designer, I still understand that proper color usage is the base of any good design. Although not all of the tenets of color theory work great for presentations, complementary colors are always a great pick.

Take a look at the color usage in this business presentation from Gary Vaynerchuk below . The purple and Snapchat yellow, which are complementary colors, look fantastic and the content jumps off the screen.

80. Use a heavy or bold font 

The very back of the room should be able to read your content if you are giving a group presentation. To ensure that your entire audience can read the slides I would not only use a large font, but also use a heavy font.  If you are confused by what I mean by a heavy font take a look at this unique presentation example by Slides That Rock.

81. Do the math for your audience

If you are going to use a graph in your presentation to compare data you should do the match for your audience. Do not make them do the calculations in their head because you will quickly lose their attention. For example, on slide number 5 the people at Sickweather lay out exactly what figures they want the audience to take from the slide.  

82. Use unique colors for different sections

The example below has 145 slides but it does not feel overwhelming or confusing.

That’s because each section has a different corresponding color, which makes it easier to flip through the slide deck and find a particular part.

83.  Give your presentation a catchy title that anyone can remember

What I really love about the presentation example above is that it features a catchy tagline on the second slide–“The 3S Framework.” It’s simple but it works!

This motto helps outline the structure of the presentation, and each slide referring back to it. Plus, the tagline will give the audience something to latch onto and remember from the presentation.

84. White backgrounds are not always bad 

A lot of people think that plain white background is a boring presentation faux pas. So the first thing they do is add color or image, which is not a bad thing at all.

But I also think that when used correctly, like in this example, plain white backgrounds can lead to beautiful presentations.

85. Split the header text from the body text

This idea is very similar to the one-two punch tactic that I talked about above, but it spreads the content over two slides as opposed to a single slide.

Use this design choice when you have fairly easy to follow presentations, like the one below from Steve Young. I know that this is effective because it allows the audience to focus on the main point before he drives it home with the supporting details.

86. Feature circle image frames 

I am a big fan of the design choices that Frank Delmelle uses in this slide deck about content strategy. He uses circles as his main design motif and frames his images in circles as well.

87. Talk directly to your audience 

This slideshow tops out at 70 slides but it’s a breeze to flip through. That’s because the creator, Ian Lurie, decided to present it in the form of a conversation instead of a classic slide deck.

While each slide only has one or two sentences, it flows just like a friendly chat. He also includes the necessary pauses, breaks and other conversational tics that helps make it even more convincing.

88. Illustrated icons are key this year 

Icons add a fun and functional element to your designs. In this presentation by Iryna Nezhynska, they use illustrated icons to make a potentially intimidating topic seem manageable.

89. Highlight key numbers and percentages 

Surprising percentages have the ability to excite and shock an audience. To make the percentages on your slides even more impactful, present them in a different color or font than the rest of the text.

In the presentation example above, Contently uses that exact tactic to bring more attention to key numbers.

90. Use a gradient as your presentation background 

Just like bold color schemes, gradients are a current social media graphic design trend . They may feel retro to some, but I believe they will be around well into the future.  

Gradients are perfect for presentation backgrounds because they are so versatile and eye-catching. I mean, you can literally create a gradient with any colors you can think of! And they look a lot more interesting than a simple flat background.

So embrace the future and use a gradient in your next presentation!

91. Track the steps in a process 

In this example, the creators from O.C. Tanner add a very interesting feature to their slides, starting on slide number 6. If you take a look at this business presentation template, you will see that they number the steps in a process and track which step they’re on at the bottom of the slides.

92. Use mind blowing font pairings 

The creator of this slide deck uses at least 10 different types of fonts. And it looks fantastic because they know that one font choice is boring. But this does not mean that you should use a bunch of random fonts–pick font pairs that play well together and keep your font choices for different types of information consistent throughout the presentation.

93. Make your ideas as obvious as possible 

Your audience shouldn’t be guessing at what you mean. That is why I think that this presentation example from In a Rocket is so powerful because they make the information easy to digest.

Learning to code can be challenging, but they break the information down with simple diagrams and clear examples. Heck, I have not touched CSS in a few years and I could still follow what they were instructing.

94. Use images that will actually scale 

A large mistake that you can make in your slide deck is using low-quality images. They may look great on your computer, but as soon as the slides are put up on a screen, the low quality will show. In this example by ThoughtWorks, all of their presentation background images look great and will scale well to a bigger screen. And that is even after the image compression that LinkedIn most likely does!

95. Take risks with your presentation layout

I honestly was blown away the first time I saw this presentation because it capitalized on such a risky design idea. The creators from Weekdone literally turned their presentation into an 8-Bit video game. A nd if you are looking for something that will stick with your audience, I would take a few creative cues from them!

96. Seriously, you better use memes 

In this day and age memes are mainstream, so why wouldn’t you use them in a creative presentation? These do not have to be the coolest meme that all the hip kids are sharing, they can be some of the classics. Like the one that Dana DiTomaso uses on slide 16 to emphasize that it’s a trap!

97. Follow a clear design rhythm

I really like how this presentation introduced each new point in three or four steps, using the same design. It gave the presentation a rhythm that flowed almost like a song!

I would recommend using this approach if you have to introduce multiple points per slide.

98. Use LOTS of icons

If you have made it this far in the list you have already probably seen how effective icons are in presentations. They are the perfect way to support your ideas and make your presentation more pleasing to the eyes.

For example, take a look at all the icons SlideShop uses in this presentation. Almost every slide has at least one icon and a few have more than ten!

99. Give each slide its own spark

I know this goes against earlier points I had about creating a cohesive theme in your presentation layout, but everyone knows that rules are made to be broken (if you can do it better)!

In this slide deck, the team at Officevibe literally created different designs for all 27 of their slides. And to top it off, each of the designs fit the quotes they used extremely well.

100. Use LARGE header cards 

An easy way to stick to that “one piece of content on each slide rule” is to use header cards. They are basically the header that you would normally use in a blog post or article, but it gets is own slide before the content. Here is an example of that idea in the real world in this presentation from Brian Downard.

101. Ask your audience questions 

I think one of the most common elements I saw in all the slide decks was that they asked the audience questions. You can use questions to engage with your audience and get them thinking a bit harder about the topic. The Site By Norex team did an exceptional job of this when they explored what the topic of what makes up a brand.

Need some more info about creating a memorable brand? Check out some of the best branding stats for 2020 and beyond!

102. Introduce yourself and your brand 

I would say that a majority of presentations that I looked at in this list just jumped right into the content without an introduction to the author or brand in the actual slide deck.

This introduction is very important because it establishes your credentials from the beginning, especially if someone is just reading the slide deck. In this example from Losant, they do just that by spending the first few slides telling the audience who they are.

103. Mix up your mediums 

Finally, this slide deck effectively marries two very distinct content forms together: digital images and hand-drawn illustrations. In this example, Freshdesk uses the timeless classic of a comic strip, Calvin & Hobbes, in something so modern to inform the audience in a fun way.

104. Show off your credentials 

Just like with any piece of content, people are more likely to believe what you are saying if they know what your company does. That is why I really like when people insert their qualifications right into the presentation slides. Just like Andreas von der Heydt, from Amazon, did at the beginning of this presentation about thinking big.  

105. Highlight key data points 

If you are presenting a chart or graph on a dry topic, I would recommend using a single color to highlight the most important data point. For example, the investment firm a16z uses orange to highlight the data points they want their audience to focus on in each of their charts.

Check out some examples of how to highlight your key information in bar charts .

106. Show your audience where to find more information 

A lot of people end their presentations by literally just running out of slides, and that is the wrong way to do it. Instead, CBInsights consistently pushes their readers towards another piece of content at the end. This is also where you can insert a call to action!

107. Tell your origin story

  Source

This idea is kinda similar to showing off your company qualifications at the beginning of your presentation. But with this approach, you are trying to make an emotional connection with your audience instead of just showing off accolades.

And Rand from Moz does this extremely well in the presentation example above.

108. Use one focused visual 

This presentation uses a central visual of a structure, with each slide moving down the levels of the structure. This is incredibly powerful because the entire presentation is about sinking your company, and the visual they designed mirrors that idea perfectly. Using one focus visual also makes your slide deck design cohesive.

109. Don’t take presentation design too seriously

Sometimes we get caught up trying to make the perfect presentation and it ends up making us crazy!

But in this presentation example, Jesse Desjardins uses a mix of wit and hilarious retro images to create a memorable and light-hearted presentation.

110. Use size to your advantage 

I am a big fan of using bubble charts and other charts that use size to compare two pieces of data. That is why I like this pitch deck from the ShearShare team that utilizes a size-based chart on slide number 9. The chart is used to illustrate the massive growth potential in their industry.

111. Split section headers from the main content with different background colors 

In this presentation, Seth Familian uses alternating colors in a very interesting way. For each of the title slides, he uses a black color background, but for the content slides he uses a white background.

This helped the readers follow along and comprehend what was on the page even faster. And when you are presenting to hundreds of different types of people, this can make or break your presentation.  

112.  Have a conversation with your audience 

Take a conversational tone in your presentation is a great way to encourage your audience to participate.

In this slide deck example, we presented a simple storyline and use questions to engage with the audience throughout. And it helped create a flow throughout the  presentation template  that is easy to follow.

113.  Include your branding throughout your presentation ideas

Another thing that people seem to forget when they are working on a presentation is to include their business’s branding. You honestly never know where your work is going to be shared, so it is important to make sure people know it’s yours. HubSpot does an outstanding job of this on all their presentations, as you can see in the bottom left corner of each slide.

Plus you have spent a ton of time creating your  brand guidelines , might as well use them.

114.  Include multiple slides to build to your main point

Try using multiple slides to build to your main point. This helps you walk through the components of one overarching point while also building suspense. In this slide deck, the creator uses 6 slides to build up to one main point, adding a new illustration to the diagram on each slide.

115.  Split the difference 

Use either the left or right side of the slide to hold your text and the opposite to display an image. If you are using a photo or graphic as the main background in your slides, this is a great way to keep things organized. 

116. There are millions of fonts out there…use them

Hey, I love simple fonts just as much as the next guy, but sometimes you need to step up your font game to stand out. For example, WebVisions uses a very gritty, probably custom font in their unique presentation that fits the topic extremely well. Take a look!

117.  Build your presentation content around icons 

Try using icons as the focal points of your presentation layout. This example from Omer Hameed  uses icons to draw the audience’s eyes  right to the middle of the presentation, where the main points and headers are located.  

118.  Mix up font style to emphasize important points

If you would like to draw some extra attention to a certain word or idea,  switch up the font  to one that is bolder. For example, in this oldie but goodie presentation from HubSpot they use a heavy sans-serif font to highlight ideas, as opposed to the serif font for the other text.

119.  Add personal touches to your presentation

If you want to create a truly unique presentation, add personal touches. In the slide numbers 6-13 from this presentation, the creator adds something to their design that no one else could ever have: they use original drawings they did themselves.

120.  Harness the power of your own brand colors

Sometimes people forget that they already have a battle-tested color palette that they can use in their  brand colors . I try to incorporate one of our brand colors in most of my designs and it makes so much easier to choose colors.

In this simple presentation example, Spitfire Creative used a palette that had both of their brand colors throughout the slideshow.

121.  Used dark-colored blocks to highlight words

I have seen this trick used in a lot of presentations and it works well. Highlight certain words or phrases by laying them overtop a colored rectangle. Take slide number 7 in this presentation example as a great guide. Use it to bring attention to a saying or idea you really want your audience to remember.

122.  Show the audience your mug 

This presentation example comes from the same presentation as a previous one, but it was too good not to share. Throughout the slides, you will see Rand from Moz pop up to add a human element to the design. Using an image of your team or yourself can put the audience at ease and make it easier to connect with the presenter.

123.  Include a helpful table of contents 

I only saw this presentation idea used a few times throughout my research, but I believe it should be used a lot more. A table of contents will help the audience know what to expect and keep their focus throughout. Especially if you are creating a presentation that is a bit longer than normal.

124.  Do not post just screenshots, do more

Screenshots of a program or app are very common in any blog post, but I think you can do a little better when it comes to presentations.

So instead of just posting a boring screenshot, add a little more to the slide by using illustrations and product shots. If you are not sure what I am talking about, just check out how great the screenshots look at slide numbers 7 and 8 in this presentation.

125. Highlight keywords using BOLD color 

Here’s another slide deck that uses different colors and blocks to highlight keywords. If you are going to use text-heavy slides, then make sure the key points are easy to pick out. Take this slide deck: starting in slide number 4, they highlight exactly what they want you to take away from the text on each slide!

Enough presentation ideas for you?

You made it! I applaud you for making it through all those presentations. Hopefully, now you have a few nifty presentation ideas ready for when you need them.

The next step is to create a presentation that will captivate a meeting room, an amphitheater, and even the world (hey, it doesn’t hurt to dream big).

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How to Start a Presentation: 5 Templates and 90 Example Phrases

Starting a presentation effectively means capturing your audience’s attention from the very beginning. It’s important because it sets the tone for the entire presentation and establishes your credibility as a speaker.

Effective Openers: 5 Templates

Your presentation’s beginning sets the stage for everything that follows. So, it’s important to capture your audience’s attention right from the start. Here are some tried-and-true techniques to do just that.

1. Storytelling Approach

When you start with a story, you tap into the natural human love for narratives. It can be a personal experience, a historical event, or a fictional tale that ties back to your main point.

Example Introduction Template 1:

“Let me tell you a story about…”

Example : “Let me tell you a story about how a small idea in a garage blossomed into the global brand we know today.”

2. Quotation Strategy

Using a relevant quote can lend authority and thematic flavor to your presentation. Choose a quote that is provocative, enlightening, or humorous to resonate with your audience.

Example Introduction Template 2:

“As [Famous Person] once said…”

Example : “As Steve Jobs once said, ‘Innovation distinguishes between a leader and a follower.'”

3. Questioning Technique

Engage your audience directly by opening with a thoughtful question. This encourages them to think and become active participants.

Example Introduction Template 3:

“Have you ever wondered…”

Example : “Have you ever wondered what it would take to reduce your carbon footprint to zero?”

4. Statistical Hook

Kick off with a startling statistic that presents a fresh perspective or underscores the importance of your topic.

Example Introduction Template 4:

“Did you know that…”

Example : “Did you know that 90% of the world’s data was generated in the last two years alone?”

5. Anecdotal Method

Share a brief, relatable incident that highlights the human aspect of your topic. It paves the way for empathy and connection.

Example Introduction Template 5:

“I want to share a quick anecdote…”

Example : “I want to share a quick anecdote about a time I experienced the customer service that went above and beyond what anyone would expect.”

How to Start a Powerpoint Presentation: 45 Example Phrases

Starting a PowerPoint presentation effectively can captivate your audience and set the tone for your message. The opening phrases you choose are important in establishing rapport and commanding attention. Whether you’re presenting to colleagues, at a conference, or in an academic setting, these phrases will help you begin with confidence and poise:

• 1. “Good morning/afternoon/evening, everyone. Thank you for joining me today.”
• 2. “Welcome, and thank you for being here. Let’s dive into our topic.”
• 3. “I’m excited to have the opportunity to present to you all about…”
• 4. “Thank you all for coming. Today, we’re going to explore…”
• 5. “Let’s begin by looking at the most important question: Why are we here today?”
• 6. “I appreciate your time today, and I promise it will be well spent as we discuss…”
• 7. “Before we get started, I want to express my gratitude for your presence here today.”
• 8. “It’s a pleasure to see so many familiar faces as we gather to talk about…”
• 9. “I’m thrilled to kick off today’s presentation on a topic that I am passionate about—…”
• 10. “Welcome to our session. I’m confident you’ll find the next few minutes informative as we cover…”
• 11. “Let’s embark on a journey through our discussion on…”
• 12. “I’m delighted to have the chance to share my insights on…”
• 13. “Thank you for the opportunity to present to such an esteemed audience on…”
• 14. “Let’s set the stage for an engaging discussion about…”
• 15. “As we begin, I’d like you to consider this:…”
• 16. “Today marks an important discussion on a subject that affects us all:…”
• 17. “Good day, and welcome to what promises to be an enlightening presentation on…”
• 18. “Hello and welcome! We’re here to delve into something truly exciting today…”
• 19. “I’m honored to present to you this comprehensive look into…”
• 20. “Without further ado, let’s get started on a journey through…”
• 21. “Thank you for carving time out of your day to join me for this presentation on…”
• 22. “It’s wonderful to see such an engaged audience ready to tackle the topic of…”
• 23. “I invite you to join me as we unpack the complexities of…”
• 24. “Today’s presentation will take us through some groundbreaking ideas about…”
• 25. “Welcome aboard! Prepare to set sail into the vast sea of knowledge on…”
• 26. “I’d like to extend a warm welcome to everyone as we focus our attention on…”
• 27. “Let’s ignite our curiosity as we begin to explore…”
• 28. “Thank you for your interest and attention as we dive into the heart of…”
• 29. “As we look ahead to the next hour, we’ll uncover the secrets of…”
• 30. “I’m eager to share with you some fascinating insights on…”
• 31. “Welcome to what I believe will be a transformative discussion on…”
• 32. “This morning/afternoon, we’ll be venturing into the world of…”
• 33. “Thank you for joining me on this exploration of…”
• 34. “I’m delighted by the turnout today as we embark on this exploration of…”
• 35. “Together, let’s navigate the intricacies of…”
• 36. “I’m looking forward to engaging with you all on the subject of…”
• 37. “Let’s kick things off with a critical look at…”
• 38. “Thank you for your presence today as we shine a light on…”
• 39. “Welcome to a comprehensive overview of…”
• 40. “It’s a privilege to discuss with you the impact of…”
• 41. “I’m glad you could join us for what promises to be a thought-provoking presentation on…”
• 42. “Today, we’re going to break down the concept of…”
• 43. “As we get started, let’s consider the significance of our topic:…”
• 44. “I’m thrilled to lead you through today’s discussion, which centers around…”
• 45. “Let’s launch into our session with an eye-opening look at…”

Starting a Presentation: 45 Examples

Connecting with the audience.

When starting a presentation, making a genuine connection with your audience sets the stage for a successful exchange of ideas. Examples:

• “I promise, by the end of this presentation, you’ll be as enthusiastic about this as I am because…”
• “The moment I learned about this, I knew it would be a game-changer and I’m thrilled to present it to you…”
• “There’s something special about this topic that I find incredibly invigorating, and I hope you will too…”
• “I get a rush every time I work on this, and I hope to transmit that energy to you today…”
• “I’m thrilled to discuss this breakthrough that could revolutionize…”
• “This project has been a labor of love, and I’m eager to walk you through…”
• “When I first encountered this challenge, I was captivated by the possibilities it presented…”
• “I can’t wait to dive into the details of this innovative approach with you today…”
• “It’s genuinely exhilarating to be at the edge of what’s possible in…”
• “My fascination with [topic] drove me to explore it further, and I’m excited to share…”
• “Nothing excites me more than talking about the future of…”
• “Seeing your faces, I know we’re going to have a lively discussion about…”
• “The potential here is incredible, and I’m looking forward to discussing it with you…”
• “Let’s embark on this journey together and explore why this is such a pivotal moment for…”
• “Your engagement in this discussion is going to make this even more exciting because…”

Building Credibility

You present with credibility when you establish your expertise and experience on the subject matter. Here’s what you can say to accomplish that:

• “With a decade of experience in this field, I’ve come to understand the intricacies of…”
• “Having led multiple successful projects, I’m excited to share my insights on…”
• “Over the years, working closely with industry experts, I’ve gleaned…”
• “I hold a degree in [your field], which has equipped me with a foundation for…”
• “I’m a certified professional in [your certification], which means I bring a certain level of expertise…”
• “Having published research on this topic, my perspective is grounded in…”
• “I’ve been a keynote speaker at several conferences, discussing…”
• “Throughout my career, I’ve contributed to groundbreaking work in…”
• “My experience as a [your previous role] has given me a unique outlook on…”
• “Endorsed by [an authority in your field], I’m here to share what we’ve achieved…”
• “The program I developed was recognized by [award], highlighting its impact in…”
• “I’ve trained professionals nationwide on this subject and witnessed…”
• “Collaborating with renowned teams, we’ve tackled challenges like…”
• “I’ve been at the forefront of this industry, navigating through…”
• “As a panelist, I’ve debated this topic with some of the brightest minds in…”

Projecting Confidence

• “I stand before you today with a deep understanding of…”
• “You can rely on the information I’m about to share, backed by thorough research and analysis…”
• “Rest assured, the strategies we’ll discuss have been tested and proven effective in…”
• “I’m certain you’ll find the data I’ll present both compelling and relevant because…”
• “I’m fully confident in the recommendations I’m providing today due to…”
• “The results speak for themselves, and I’m here to outline them clearly for you…”
• “I invite you to consider the evidence I’ll present; it’s both robust and persuasive…”
• “You’re in good hands today; I’ve navigated these waters many times and have the insights to prove it…”
• “I assure you, the journey we’ll take during this presentation will be enlightening because…”
• “Your success is important to me, which is why I’ve prepared diligently for our time together…”
• “Let’s look at the facts; they’ll show you why this approach is solid and dependable…”
• “Today, I present to you a clear path forward, grounded in solid experience and knowledge…”
• “I’m confident that what we’ll uncover today will not only inform but also inspire you because…”
• “You’ll leave here equipped with practical, proven solutions that you can trust because…”
• “The solution I’m proposing has been embraced industry-wide, and for good reason…”

Organizational Preview

Starting your presentation with a clear organizational preview can effectively guide your audience through the content. This section helps you prepare to communicate the roadmap of your presentation.

Outlining the Main Points

You should begin by briefly listing the main points you’ll cover. This lets your audience know what to expect and helps them follow along. For example, if you’re presenting on healthy eating, you might say, “Today, I’ll cover the benefits of healthy eating, essential nutrients in your diet, and simple strategies for making healthier choices.”

Setting the Tone

Your introduction sets the tone for the entire presentation. A way to do this is through a relevant story or anecdote that engages the audience. Suppose you’re talking about innovation; you might start with, “When I was a child, I was fascinated by how simple Legos could build complex structures, which is much like the innovation process.”

Explaining the Structure

Explain the structure of your presentation so that your audience can anticipate how you’ll transition from one section to the next. For instance, if your presentation includes an interactive portion, you might say, “I’ll begin with a 15-minute overview, followed by a hands-on demonstration, and we’ll wrap up with a Q&A session, where you can ask any questions.”

Practice and Preparation

Before you step onto the stage, it’s important that your preparation includes not just content research, but also rigorous practice and strategy for dealing with nerves. This approach ensures you present with confidence and clarity.

Rehearsing the Opening

Practicing your introduction aloud gives you the opportunity to refine your opening remarks. You might start by greeting the audience and sharing an interesting quote or a surprising statistic related to your topic. For example, if your presentation is about the importance of renewable energy, you could begin with a recent statistic about the growth in solar energy adoption. Record yourself and listen to the playback, focusing on your tone, pace, and clarity.

Memorizing Key Points

While you don’t need to memorize your entire presentation word for word, you should know the key points by heart. This includes main arguments, data, and any conclusions you’ll be drawing. You can use techniques such as mnemonics or the method of loci, which means associating each key point with a specific location in your mind, to help remember these details. Having them at your fingertips will make you feel more prepared and confident.

Managing Presentation Jitters

Feeling nervous before a presentation is natural, but you can manage these jitters with a few techniques. Practice deep breathing exercises or mindful meditation to calm your mind before going on stage. You can also perform a mock presentation to a group of friends or colleagues to simulate the experience and receive feedback. This will not only help you get used to speaking in front of others but also in adjusting your material based on their reactions.

Engagement Strategies

Starting a presentation on the right foot often depends on how engaged your audience is. Using certain strategies, you can grab their attention early and maintain their interest throughout your talk:

1. Encouraging Audience Participation

Opening your presentation with a question to your audience is a great way to encourage participation. This invites them to think actively about the subject matter. For instance, you might ask, “By a show of hands, how many of you have experienced…?” Additionally, integrating interactive elements like quick polls or requesting volunteers for a demonstration can make the experience more dynamic and memorable.

Using direct questions throughout your presentation ensures the audience stays alert, as they might be called upon to share their views. For example, after covering a key point, you might engage your audience with, “Does anyone have an experience to share related to this?”

2. Utilizing Pacing and Pauses

Mastering the pace of your speech helps keep your presentation lively. Quickening the pace when discussing exciting developments or slowing down when explaining complex ideas can help maintain interest. For example, when introducing a new concept, slow your pace to allow the audience to absorb the information.

Pauses are equally powerful. A well-timed pause after a key point gives the audience a moment to ponder the significance of what you’ve just said. It might feel like this: “The results of this study were groundbreaking. (pause) They completely shifted our understanding of…”. Pauses also give you a moment to collect your thoughts, adding to your overall composure and control of the room.

How should one introduce their group during a presentation?

You might say something like, “Let me introduce my amazing team: Alex, our researcher, Jamie, our designer, and Sam, the developer. Together, we’ve spent the last few months creating something truly special for you.”

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Innovative Presentation Ideas: Captivate Your Audience with Creative Approaches

Creating an engaging presentation requires more than just delivering information—it’s about capturing your audience's attention, making your message memorable, and encouraging interaction. To help you stand out and leave a lasting impression, here are some innovative presentation ideas that can elevate your content and captivate your audience.

1. Interactive Polls and Q&A Sessions

Engagement through interaction.

Integrating interactive elements such as live polls or Q&A sessions can significantly increase audience participation and engagement. These tools make your presentation more dynamic and allow you to tailor your content based on real-time feedback.

How to Implement:

• Live Polls: Use platforms like Slido or Mentimeter to conduct live polls where the audience can vote on questions or provide opinions. Display the results immediately to spark discussions.
• Q&A Sessions: Allocate time for a Q&A segment where the audience can ask questions. Consider using a tool that allows anonymous submissions to encourage more candid questions.

Scenario: During a marketing strategy presentation, start with a live poll asking the audience about their biggest marketing challenges. Use the poll results to shape the rest of your presentation, addressing the most common issues.

2. Storytelling with Visuals

Bring your message to life.

Storytelling is a powerful technique for making your presentation memorable. Combine storytelling with compelling visuals to create a narrative that resonates with your audience and makes your message more impactful.

• Narrative Arc: Structure your presentation as a story with a clear beginning, middle, and end. Introduce characters, conflicts, and resolutions to make your content relatable.
• Visual Aids: Use high-quality images, videos, and infographics to illustrate key points and evoke emotions. Tools like Canva or Adobe Spark can help create visually appealing content.

Scenario: In a pitch for a new product, start with a story about a customer’s journey before and after using your product. Use images and video clips to illustrate the transformation, making the benefits of your product tangible and relatable.

3. Gamification

Make learning fun.

Gamification involves incorporating game-like elements into your presentation to make learning more engaging. This approach can turn routine information into an interactive experience, boosting motivation and retention.

• Quizzes and Challenges: Include quizzes or challenges throughout your presentation. Award points or prizes for correct answers to keep the audience engaged.
• Interactive Scenarios: Create scenarios or simulations where the audience can make decisions and see the outcomes. This can be particularly effective in training or educational presentations.

Scenario: During a workshop on project management, organize a team-based challenge where groups compete to solve a case study. Use a leaderboard to track progress and provide rewards for the winning team.

4. Live Demonstrations and Showcases

Show, don’t just tell.

Live demonstrations can make your presentation more engaging by providing practical, hands-on examples of your product or concept. This approach allows your audience to see your ideas in action and better understand their application.

• Product Demos: If you’re presenting a new product, demonstrate its features and benefits live. Allow the audience to interact with the product if possible.
• Live Simulations: For educational or technical presentations, conduct a live simulation to showcase how a process works in real time.

Scenario: In a tech conference presentation, perform a live demo of your software, showing its key features and benefits. Allow the audience to ask questions and interact with the software during the demo.

5. Audience Participation Activities

Encourage active involvement.

Involving your audience in activities can make your presentation more interactive and memorable. Participation activities can range from group discussions to hands-on exercises, depending on your presentation’s goals.

• Breakout Sessions: Divide the audience into small groups to discuss specific topics or solve problems. Have each group share their findings with the larger audience.
• Interactive Exercises: Incorporate activities such as role-playing, brainstorming sessions, or creative workshops to engage the audience actively.

Scenario: During a leadership training session, organize a role-playing exercise where participants act out different leadership scenarios. Facilitate a discussion afterward to reflect on the exercise and extract key lessons.

6. Incorporating Augmented Reality (AR)

Enhance the presentation experience.

Augmented Reality (AR) can create immersive experiences that captivate your audience and bring your content to life. This technology can be particularly effective for presentations involving complex data or concepts.

• AR Apps: Use AR applications to overlay digital content onto physical objects or environments. Tools like Zappar or ARKit can help integrate AR into your presentation.
• Interactive Models: Create interactive 3D models that the audience can explore using AR, enhancing their understanding of the subject matter.

Scenario: In a presentation about architectural design, use AR to allow the audience to view 3D models of building projects through their smartphones or tablets, giving them a better sense of the design and layout.

7. Utilizing Data Visualization

Simplify complex information.

Effective data visualization can help simplify complex information and make it more accessible. Using charts, graphs, and infographics can enhance understanding and retention.

• Infographics: Create infographics that summarize key data points and trends. Tools like Piktochart or Tableau can assist in designing effective visualizations.
• Interactive Charts: Use interactive charts and graphs that allow the audience to explore data in real time.

Scenario: During a financial report presentation, use interactive charts to display revenue trends and projections. Allow the audience to filter the data by different criteria to explore various scenarios.

8. Incorporating Live Feedback

Adapt and improve in real time.

Collecting live feedback during your presentation allows you to adjust your content based on audience responses and interests. This approach can help you address the most relevant issues and maintain engagement.

• Live Feedback Tools: Use tools like Mentimeter or Slido to gather real-time feedback from your audience. Pose questions or request opinions throughout the presentation.
• Instant Polls: Conduct quick polls to gauge the audience’s understanding or interest in specific topics, and adjust your content accordingly.

Scenario: In a product launch presentation, use live polls to ask the audience about their preferences or concerns regarding the product. Use the feedback to address these points in real time.

Innovative presentation ideas can significantly enhance your ability to engage and captivate your audience. By incorporating interactive elements, storytelling, gamification, live demonstrations, audience participation, AR, data visualization, and live feedback, you can create a presentation that is not only informative but also memorable and impactful. Tailor these ideas to fit your presentation’s goals and audience to ensure a successful and engaging experience.

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Home Blog Presentation Ideas How to Start a Presentation: 5 Strong Opening Slides and 12 Tricks To Test

How to Start a Presentation: 5 Strong Opening Slides and 12 Tricks To Test

Knowing how to start a presentation is crucial: if you fail to capture the audience’s attention right off the bat, your entire presentation will flop. Few listeners will stick with you to the end and retain what you have told.

That is mildly unpleasant when you are doing an in-house presentation in front of your colleagues. But it can become utterly embarrassing when you present in front of larger audiences (e.g., at a conference) or worse – delivering a sales presentation to prospective customers.

Here is how most of us begin a presentation: give an awkward greeting, thank everyone for coming, clear our throats, tap the mic, and humbly start to mumble about our subject. The problem with such an opening performance? It effectively kills and buries even the best messages.

Table of Contents

• The Classic Trick: Open a Presentation with an Introduction
• Open a Presentation with a Hook
• Begin with a Captivating Visual
• Ask a “What if…” Question
• Use the Word “Imagine”
• Leverage The Curiosity Gap
• The Power of Silence
• Facts as Weapons of Communication
• Fact vs. Myths
• The Power of Music
• Physical Activity
• Acknowledging a Person

How to Start a PowerPoint Presentation The Right Way

Let’s say you have all of your presentation slides polished up (in case you don’t, check our quick & effective PowerPoint presentation design tips first). Your presentation has a clear storyline and agenda. Main ideas are broken into bite-sized statements for your slides and complemented with visuals. All you have left is to figure out how you begin presenting.

The best way is to appeal to and invoke certain emotions in your audience – curiosity, surprise, fear, or good old amusements. Also, it is recommended to present your main idea in the first 30 seconds of the presentation. And here’s how it’s done.

1. The Classic Trick: Open a Presentation with an Introduction

When you don’t feel like reinventing the wheel, use a classic trick from the book – start with a quick personal introduction. Don’t want to sound as boring as everyone else with your humble “Hi, I’m John, the head of the Customer Support Department”? Great, because we are all about promoting effective presentation techniques (hint: using a dull welcome slide isn’t one of them).

Here’s how to introduce yourself in a presentation the right way.

a. Use a link-back memory formula

To ace a presentation, you need to connect with your audience. The best way to do so is by throwing in a simple story showing who you are, where you came from, and why your words matter.

The human brain loves a good story, and we are more inclined to listen and retain the information told this way. Besides, when we can relate to the narrator (or story hero), we create an emotional bond with them, and, again – become more receptive, and less skeptical of the information that is about to be delivered.

So here are your presentation introduction lines:

My name is Joanne, and I’m the Head of Marketing at company XYZ. Five years ago I was working as a waitress, earning $10/hour and collecting rejection letters from editors. About ten letters every week landed to my mailbox. You see, I love words, but decent publisher thought mine were good enough. Except for the restaurant owner. I was very good at up-selling and recommending dishes to the customers. My boss even bumped my salary to $15/hour as a token of appreciation for my skill. And this made me realize: I should ditch creative writing and focus on copywriting instead. After loads of trial and error back in the day, I learned how to write persuasive copy. I was no longer getting rejection letters. I was receiving thousands of emails saying that someone just bought another product from our company. My sales copy pages generated over $1,500,000 in revenue over last year. And I want to teach you how to do the same”

b. Test the Stereotype Formula

This one’s simple and effective as well. Introduce yourself by sharing an obvious stereotype about your profession. This cue will help you connect with your audience better, make them chuckle a bit, and set a lighter mood for the speech to follow.

Here’s how you can frame your intro:

“My name is ___, and I am a lead software engineer at our platform [Your Job Title]. And yes, I’m that nerdy type who never liked presenting in front of large groups of people. I would rather stay in my den and write code all day long. [Stereotype]. But hey, since I have mustered enough courage…let’s talk today about the new product features my team is about to release….”

After sharing a quick, self-deprecating line, you transition back to your topic, reinforcing the audience’s attention . Both of these formulas help you set the “mood” for your further presentation, so try using them interchangeably on different occasions.

2. Open a Presentation with a Hook

Wow your audience straight off the bat by sharing something they would not expect to hear. This may be one of the popular first-time presentation tips but don’t rush to discard it.

Because here’s the thing: psychologically , we are more inclined to pay attention whenever presented with an unexpected cue. When we know what will happen next – someone flips the switch, and lights turn on – we don’t really pay much attention to that action.

But when we don’t know what to expect next – e.g., someone flips the switch and a bell starts ringing – we are likely to pay more attention to what will happen next. The same goes for words: everyone loves stories with unpredictable twists. So begin your presentation with a PowerPoint introduction slide or a line that no one expects to hear.

Here are a few hook examples you can swipe:

a. Open with a provocative statement

It creates an instant jolt and makes the audience intrigued to hear what you are about to say next – pedal back, continue with the provocation, or do something else that they will not expect.

“You will live seven and a half minutes longer than you would have otherwise, just because you watched this talk.”

That’s how Jane McGonigal opens one of her TED talks . Shocking and intriguing, right?

b. Ask a rhetorical, thought-provoking question

Seasoned presenters know that one good practice is to ask a question at the beginning of a presentation to increase audience engagement. Rhetorical questions have a great persuasive effect – instead of answering aloud, your audience will silently start musing over it during your presentation. They aroused curiosity and motivated the audience to remain attentive, as they did want to learn your answer to this question.

To reinforce your message throughout the presentation, you can further use the Rhetorical Triangle Concept – a rhetorical approach to building a persuasive argument based on Aristotle’s teachings.

c. Use a bold number, factor stat

A clean slide with some mind-boggling stat makes an undeniably strong impact. Here are a few opening statement examples you can use along with your slide:

• Shock them: “We are effectively wasting over $1.2 billion per year on producing clothes no one will ever purchase”
• Create empathy: “Are you among the 20% of people with undiagnosed ADHD?”
• Call to arms: “58% of marketing budgets are wasted due to poor landing page design. Let’s change this!”
• Spark curiosity: “Did you know that companies who invested in speech recognition have seen a 13% increase in ROI within just 3 years?”

3. Begin with a Captivating Visual

Compelling visuals are the ABC of presentation design – use them strategically to make an interesting statement at the beginning and throughout your presentation. Your first presentation slide can be text-free. Communicate your idea with a visual instead – a photo, a chart, an infographic, or another graphics asset.

Visuals are a powerful medium for communication as our brain needs just 13 milliseconds to render what our eyes see, whereas text comprehension requires more cognitive effort.

Relevant images add additional aesthetic appeal to your deck, bolster the audience’s imagination, and make your key message instantly more memorable.

Here’s an intro slide example. You want to make a strong presentation introduction to global pollution.  Use the following slide to reinforce the statement you share:

“Seven of nine snow samples taken on land in Antarctica found chemicals known as PFAs, which are used in industrial products and can harm wildlife”

Source: Reuters

4. Ask a “What if…” Question

The “what if” combo carries massive power. It gives your audience a sense of what will happen if they choose to listen to you and follow your advice.  Here are a few presentations with starting sentences + slides to illustrate this option:

Alternatively, you can work your way to this point using different questions:

• Ask the audience about their “Why.” Why are they attending this event, or why do they find this topic relevant?
• Use “How” as your question hook if you plan to introduce a potential solution to a problem.
• If your presentation has a persuasion factor associated, use “When” as a question to trigger the interest of the audience on, for example, when they are planning to take action regarding the topic being presented (if we talk about an inspirational presentation).

5. Use the Word “Imagine”

“Imagine,” “Picture This,” and “Think of” are better word choices for when you plan to begin your presentation with a quick story.

Our brain loves interacting with stories. In fact, a captivating story makes us more collaborative. Scientists have discovered that stories with tension during narrative make us:

• Pay more attention,
• Share emotions with the characters and even mimic the feelings and behaviors of those characters afterward.

That’s why good action movies often feel empowering and make us want to change the world too. By incorporating a good, persuasive story with a relatable hero, you can also create that “bond” with your audience and make them more perceptive to your pitch – donate money to support the cause; explore the solution you are offering, and so on.

6. Leverage The Curiosity Gap

The curiosity gap is another psychological trick frequently used by marketers to solicit more clicks, reads, and other interactions from the audience. In essence, it’s the trick you see behind all those clickbait, Buzzfeed-style headlines:

Not everyone is a fan of such titles. But the truth is – they do the trick and instantly capture attention. The curiosity gap sparks our desire to dig deeper into the matter. We are explicitly told that we don’t know something important, and now we crave to change that. Curiosity is an incredibly strong driving force for action – think Eve, think Pandora’s Box.

So consider incorporating these attention grabbers for your presentation speech to shock the audience. You can open with one, or strategically weave them in the middle of your presentation when you feel like your audience is getting tired and may lose their focus.

Here’s how you can use the curiosity gap during your presentation:

• Start telling a story, pause in the middle, and delay the conclusion of it.
• Withhold the key information (e.g., the best solution to the problem you have described) for a bit – but not for too long, as this can reduce the initial curiosity.
• Introduce an idea or concept and link it with an unexpected outcome or subject – this is the best opening for a presentation tip.

7. The Power of Silence

What would you do if you attended a presentation in which the speaker remains silent for 30 seconds after the presentation starts? Just the presenter, standing in front of the audience, in absolute silence.

Most likely, your mind starts racing with thoughts, expecting something of vital importance to be disclosed. The surprise factor with this effect is for us to acknowledge things we tend to take for granted.

It is a powerful resource to introduce a product or to start an inspirational presentation if followed by a fact.

8. Facts as Weapons of Communication

In some niches, using statistics as the icebreaker is the best method to retain the audience’s interest.

Say your presentation is about climate change. Why not introduce a not-so-common fact, such as the amount of wool that can be produced out of oceanic plastic waste per month? And since you have to base your introduction on facts, research manufacturers that work with Oceanic fabrics from recycled plastic bottles .

Using facts helps to build a better narrative, and also gives leverage to your presentation as you are speaking not just from emotional elements but from actually recorded data backed up by research.

9. Fact vs. Myths

Related to our previous point, we make quite an interesting speech if we contrast a fact vs. a myth in a non-conventional way: using a myth to question a well-accepted fact, then introducing a new point of view or theory, backed on sufficient research, that proves the fact wrong. This technique, when used in niches related to academia, can significantly increase the audience’s interest, and it will highlight your presentation as innovative.

Another approach is to debunk a myth using a fact. This contrast immediately piques interest because it promises to overturn commonly held beliefs, and people naturally find it compelling when their existing knowledge is put to the test. An example of this is when a nutritionist wishes to speak about how to lose weight via diet, and debunks the myth that all carbohydrates are “bad”.

10. The Power of Music

Think about a presentation that discusses the benefits of using alternative therapies to treat anxiety, reducing the need to rely on benzodiazepines. Rather than going technical and introducing facts, the presenter can play a soothing tune and invite the audience to follow an exercise that teaches how to practice breathing meditation . Perhaps, in less than 2 minutes, the presenter can accomplish the goal of exposing the advantages of this practice with a live case study fueled by the proper ambiance (due to the music played in the beginning).

11. Physical Activity

Let’s picture ourselves in an in-company presentation about workspace wellness. For this company, the sedentary lifestyle their employees engage in is a worrying factor, so they brought a personal trainer to coach the employees on a basic flexibility routine they can practice in 5 minutes after a couple of hours of desk time.

“Before we dive in, let’s all stand up for a moment.” This simple instruction breaks the ice and creates a moment of shared experience among the attendees. You could then lead them through a brief stretching routine, saying something like, “Let’s reach up high, and stretch out those muscles that get so tight sitting at our desks all day.” With this action, you’re not just talking about workplace wellness, you’re giving them a direct, personal experience of it.

This approach has several advantages. Firstly, it infuses energy into the room and increases the oxygen flow to the brain, potentially boosting the audience’s concentration and retention. Secondly, it sets a precedent that your presentation is not going to be a standard lecture, but rather an interactive experience. This can raise the level of anticipation for what’s to come, and make the presentation a topic for future conversation between coworkers.

12. Acknowledging a Person

How many times have you heard the phrase: “Before we begin, I’d like to dedicate a few words to …” . The speaker could be referring to a mentor figure, a prominent person in the local community, or a group of people who performed charity work or obtained a prize for their hard work and dedication. Whichever is the reason behind this, acknowledgment is a powerful force to use as a method of starting a presentation. It builds a connection with the audience, it speaks about your values and who you admire, and it can transmit what the conversation is going to be about based on who the acknowledged person is.

Closing Thoughts

Now you know how to start your presentation – you have the opening lines, you have the slides to use, and you can browse even more attractive PowerPoint presentation slides and templates on our website. Also, we recommend you visit our article on how to make a PowerPoint Presentation to get familiarized with the best tactics for professional presentation design and delivery, or if you need to save time preparing your presentation, we highly recommend you check our AI Presentation Maker to pair these concepts with cutting-edge slide design powered by AI.

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New Challenge: Build your BRB LEGO sign IRL

Hey, fellow gamers and brick enthusiasts! 🌟

Do you ever find yourself needing to step away from the intense battlefields, adventurous quests, or high-speed races in your favorite game? What if we told you there's a way to make your "be right back" moments just as epic as the game itself?

Introducing the LEGO Ideas "Be Right Back" Gaming Sign Challenge ! This is your golden opportunity to combine your love for gaming with your passion for LEGO bricks.

Imagine crafting a unique, brick-built "BRB" sign that not only informs your teammates and online friends that you're AFK (away from keyboard), but also adds a touch of cool and clever flair to your gaming setup.

Get Inspired

Not sure where to start? Here are some ideas to get your creative clutch power flowing:

• Retro Arcade : Craft a sign that looks like it belongs in a 1980s arcade, complete with pixel art and neon flare.
• Speed Runner : Design a high-energy sign with elements like golden rings, loops, and a sense of motion. Think about incorporating bold colors and a sense of speed into your build.
• Fantasy Quest : Use elements like wands, shields, and magical creatures to hint at your favorite RPG adventures.
• Battle Royale : Create an action-packed sign inspired by a game field filled with supply drops, high terrain, and tactical opportunities. Use bright colors, creative structures, and dynamic scenes to capture that intense, competitive spirit.
• Space Odyssey : Create a sign that looks like it's from a futuristic spaceship, using sleek lines and metallic colors.
• Block World : Design a sign that looks like it’s been built from colorful, blocky elements, featuring familiar landscapes such as grassy plains, pixelated trees, and maybe even a few blocky creatures. This concept is perfect for a playful and interactive feel.
• Nature Retreat : Design a BRB sign that incorporates natural elements like trees, waterfalls, and wildlife for a calming AFK break.

Add some more flair to get fans inspired by their favorite game.

We can’t wait to see the incredible designs you come up with. So, gamers and builders, are you ready to level up your creativity? Grab your bricks, let your imagination soar, and may the best BRB sign win!

Stay creative and start building here ! 🎮🧱✨

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Bears studs and duds in thrilling win over Titans to start the season

Probably not how the bears drew it up, but a big win all the same, by alex shapiro • published 5 hours ago • updated 5 hours ago.

CHICAGO – Early in the summer the storyline was that the Bears defense might have to carry Caleb Williams and the rest of the new-look offense while they got their sea legs. Hard to imagine anybody expected it to look like the team’s performance in Week 1, though.

The offense was clunky, like it had been for portions of training camp. But it struggled in most areas, not just one. The line didn’t get much push against the talented Titans front. Williams looked out of sync with most of his receivers. Running backs went nowhere. Things looked bleak.

By the time the fourth quarter started, it looked like the Bears were on their way to a disappointing loss to start the year.

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Until the defense took over.

After getting gashed for most of the game, the pass rushers started to get home and make plays on the ball. They started creating turnovers. A blocked punt returned for a touchdown began to turn the tides. Finally, in the fourth quarter, head coach Matt Eberflus dialed up extra pressure on a 3rd-and-6 play. Tremaine Edmunds and Kyler Gordon joined the defensive line to attack Will Levis and it worked. Levis threw an ill-advised pass, Stevenson stepped in front of it and returned it for a game-winning touchdown.

Just how things were drawn up, right?

Beyond the heroics at the end of the game, here were the Bears’ studs in their 24-17 win over the Titans, and here were the guys who will need to clean some things up before Week 2.

Scores and stats from week 1 of the 2024 NFL season

Bears' stellar D gives offense some runway to improve, but they feel pressure to play well now

Deandre carter.

The Bears brought in Carter to make an impact on special teams, and he made his presence felt right away. Carter won the starting punt return job out of camp and gained 16 yards on his first opportunity of the year. The plan was for Velus Jones Jr. to return kickoffs– more on that later– but Carter ended up replacing him mid-game. He impressed again, with a 67-yarder, the most dynamic dynamic kick return we’ve seen from the Bears.

T.J. EDWARDS

The Bears defense struggled to contain both Will Levis and the Titans run game for much of the day, but Edwards stood out as an effective tackler. He picked up right where he left off last year and led the team with 15 tackles. Edwards was able to make plays with both his sideline-to-sideline agility and his knack for shedding blocks.

DARRELL TAYLOR

The newest member of the pass rush squad had the biggest impact on Sunday. Taylor worked as DE3 behind Montez Sweat and DeMarcus Walker, and made it onto the field as an extra pass rusher on third-down subpackages where Walker would kick inside to DT. Taylor generated consistent pressure on the second wave and notched the first Bears sack of the season. He followed that up with a strip sack in the fourth quarter that led to a Bears field goal.

VELUS JONES JR.

The dynamic kickoff was supposed to play to Jones Jr.’s strengths this season. Instead the same ball security issues that have plagued his entire career as a return man popped up on his first opportunity of the regular season. Jones Jr. muffed a kickoff, then kicked the ball forward about 20 yards. The Titans recovered and started their drive well into Bears territory. The team was fortunate to get a stop and hold them to a field goal.

We’ve now seen Jones Jr. get the chance to return three kicks between the preseason and Week 1. He muffed two of them.

KEENAN ALLEN

The Bears brought in Allen this year because he’s an excellent route runner with some of the best hands in the league. The hope was that he would be a dependable target for Caleb Williams to help ease the rookie into the NFL as much as possible. It looked like the two were going to connect for Williams’ first NFL touchdown, but Allen dropped a ball that hit him right in the hands.

That was a microcosm of the duo’s struggles together. Williams targeted Allen 11 times, but they only hooked up for four catches that went for 29 yards.

INTERIOR OFFENSIVE LINE

Entering the year, the biggest question was if the middle of the line could hold up well enough to give Williams clear lanes, and if they could open up holes for the running backs. On Sunday they struggled in each department. Williams had pressure in his face most of the day and had several passes batted down at the line of scrimmage. Rushers had almost no space to work with. Swift, who was brought in this year to lead the backfield, carried the ball 10 times for 30 yards for a 3.0 YPC average– and 20 of those yards came on one carry in the fourth quarter after the Bears had taken the wind out of the Titans’ sails.

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