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Pitch Deck Masterclass is designed for early-stage founders actively raising capital and pitching to investors.

In today’s competitive market, even strong products and promising traction aren’t always enough. Investors review hundreds of decks and quickly decide which founders move to the next conversation.

This masterclass will help you craft a clear, compelling pitch deck and deliver your story with confidence—both in writing and in person—so you can move investors from interest to the next meeting.

Limited to 10 early-stage founders.

By Application only. Applications closed.

key topics

BUILDING A COMPELLING PITCH DECK: Learn the structure and essential slides every investor expects, from problem-solution framing to financial projections and the go-to-market strategy

CRAFTING YOUR STORY: Discover how to connect with investors through a clear, engaging narrative that highlights your vision, traction, and market potential.

DELIVERING WITH CONFIDENCE: Master techniques for presenting your pitch with clarity and poise, ensuring you leave a lasting impression in both formal and casual investor settings.

HANDLING INVESTOR QUESTIONS AND OBJECTIONS: Develop strategies to address tough questions about competition, scalability, and risk while building credibility and trust with potential investors.

STARTS: TBD

APPLY BY: Applications Closed

LENGTH: 7 Weeks

FORMAT: Self-paced + Live Office Hours

OFFICE HOURS: Wed, 4-5:30 ET

OFFERED: Once a year

PRICE
HarvardAE Members $599

Non Members $749

APPLICATIONS CLOSED

Does not include transaction fees. No refunds.

In partnership with GTS.

 

Course Criteria

  • By application - Deadline is March 27th.

  • Pitch deck required.

  • MVP in testing or in the market.

  • Product and business models are scalable and venture-backable.

  • Founder actively leading fundraising or sales.

  • Agree to participate in pitch event.

 

FEATURES

  • Master the essential elements of a successful pitch deck, including storytelling, investor-focused messaging, and visual design that captures attention and communicates value effectively.

  • Build and refine your verbal pitch with expert guidance, ensuring you deliver your message clearly, concisely, and with confidence in every investor interaction.

  • Receive tailored feedback on your pitch deck and delivery from experienced investors and mentors, helping you refine your approach and address common investor concerns.

  • Explore successful case studies, learn investor psychology, and gain actionable tools to prepare for tough questions and increase your chances of securing funding.

  • Showcase your polished pitch deck and delivery to a panel of investors and industry experts, gaining valuable exposure and real-time feedback.

Who should TAKE THIS COURSE

early-stage founders

Why: To refine their pitch, build confidence in presenting to investors, and secure the funding essential for scaling their startup successfully.

 

Guest Speakers

Kim Bruschi Kim is the President and Owner of Storied Visual Communication Studio, a B2B Communication Design professional specializing in strategic presentations and pitch decks. Skilled in copywriting, design, and marketing, Kim transforms insights into visuals that drive growth and highlight business strengths.

Danish Dhamani  Danish is the CEO of Orai, a public speaking app that has helped over 400,000 people speak more clearly and confidently with AI feedback. He is also a TEDx speaker with over 5M views, and has been featured in Forbes 30 under 30. Outside of work, he travels the world, cycles in amazing places, and tries to meditate without losing focus. Danish’s three superpowers are - Strategy, Storytelling, and Sleep!

instructor

Kirin Kalia, founder and CEO of Grow Through Story, is a startup veteran and communications expert with 25+ years of experience across journalism and marketing. She helps founders master their messaging and public-speaking skills so they raise more money and grow their revenue faster. Kirin has coached 1000+ founders to pitch investors and innovation leaders at companies including Visa, P&G Ventures and more. She is a Techstars 2023 All-Star Mentor and also supports several other accelerator programs including the HarvardAE Accelerator.