As the entrepreneurial landscape continues to evolve, a new generation of founders are redefining the way startups are pitched and presented. At the recent Howard University and PNC annual Juneteenth conference event, I had the privilege of witnessing firsthand the confidence and creativity of several Gen-Z entrepreneurs as they shared their secrets for crafting the perfect startup pitch.
These young trailblazers, hailing from diverse backgrounds and industries, offered invaluable insights on how to capture the attention of potential investors, partners, and customers. From mastering the 30-second elevator pitch to leveraging nostalgia and community connections, their strategies provide a roadmap for aspiring entrepreneurs looking to stand out in a crowded market.
In this article, we’ll explore the pitching techniques of three exceptional Gen-Z founders – Daryl “DJ” Riley, Desirae Brown, and Nigel Dunn – and uncover the key elements that make their pitches so effective.
1. Daryl “DJ” Riley: Crafting a Captivating Elevator Pitch
Daryl “DJ” Riley, the founder of fashion technology venture Tendaji, has perfected the art of the quick pitch. As I encountered him at the event, his approach was both practical and engaging. Offering a helping hand as I descended the steps, Riley seamlessly transitioned into a compelling 30-second pitch for his startup.
“Crafting an impactful elevator pitch within a constrained environment comes down to clarity, authenticity, and understanding your audience,” Riley shared with ESSENCE. “The goal is to connect with the audience on a personal level.” By weaving in a relatable anecdote and highlighting the unique value proposition of his product, Riley was able to capture my attention and leave a lasting impression.
2. Desirae Brown and Nigel Dunn: Harnessing the Power of Nostalgia
In contrast, Desirae Brown and Nigel Dunn, the co-founders of the Soundtrack game, took a more immersive approach to their pitch. As I wrapped up a conversation, Brown approached me with a set of playing cards, immediately drawing me into a game of hypothetical scenarios.
“It’s a card game that brings people together through film and song,” Brown explained. “Basically, you read a scenario to your family and friends and then have them choose the song from their hand that best matches the scenario. The goal is to get the whole room singing classic songs and reminiscing about their favorite moments from film, TV, and everyday life.”
By tapping into my nostalgic memories and creating a warm, positive, and engaging experience, Brown and Dunn were able to showcase the power of their product and leave a lasting impression. Their approach, which they honed during a successful Kickstarter campaign and HBCU homecoming tour, has earned them recognition and accolades, including being named semi-finalists for Pharrell Williams’ Black Ambition Prize.
3. Leveraging Community Connections and Authenticity
What sets these Gen-Z entrepreneurs apart is their unwavering commitment to their communities and their ability to showcase their authentic selves. Riley’s pitch was not just about his startup; it was about his connections to his classmates, his girlfriend, and even his cousin – all of whom were equally enterprising and ambitious.
Similarly, Brown and Dunn’s success can be attributed to their deep roots within the HBCU community, where they were able to gain traction and funding for their Soundtrack game.
By tapping into these communities and leveraging their personal stories, these founders have created a level of relatability and trust that resonates with their target audiences.
