NCET

PRESENTER INSTRUCTIONS

SUBMISSIONS:

Each Applicant must submit a ONE PAGE ONLY synopsis of the KEY aspects of their business idea. The following format should be used for the synopsis AND the presentation:

• a) Company Name
• b) Industry Type (eg-retail, manufacturing, service, etc.)
• c) Presenter Name and associates/supporters
• d) Essence of the New Business Idea (ie-”elevator pitch”)
• e) Who is the target market (customer profile)
• f) Why this idea is different, timely and compelling
• g) Size and growth rate of the untapped market potential
• h) Clear mechanism for making a profit
• i) Sustainable unfair strategic competitive advantage(s)
• j) Critical resources (money, contacts, deals) needed to achieve the next stage

PRESENTATION FORMAT:

10 minutes to present the key aspects of the business concept
5 minutes to respond to panelist questions with 1 minute time limit on each answer
1 minute for each panelist to summarize their feedback for the presenter

NOTE: Time limits will be strictly enforced. You WILL be cut off if you run over.

PRESENTER TIPS:

No multimedia material will be needed or allowed (such as PowerPoint or posters). This is about you and your ability to pitch an exciting and compelling new idea, and take the heat of tough questions while staying cool under fire. Practice timing your presentation with your friends and family. Consider it a fun game. Polish your look (body language) by standing proud (but not stiff) and manage your hand gestures strategically. Polish your language (drop the “ummm” and “you know”, etc.). Do not guess or exaggerate. Stay on topic and on time. Make eye contact with EACH of the panelists as much as possible. Engage the panelists with poignant remarks. Don’t be afraid to “put yourself out there”. Show your passion but temper it with calculating discipline.

Q & A:

Be prepared to answer questions about specific key concepts about your business idea. Listen carefully to the intent of each question before answering. Think (fast) BEFORE you answer. Keep your answers VERY tight and concise (1 minute limit. You WILL be cut off at 1 minute).

EXPECTATIONS

Plan to attend the entire session. You can learn a great deal from other presenters. Realize that you will be showcasing yourself and your idea to potential advisors and even investors, both on the panel and in the general audience. If you do well it’s likely you will be contacted afterwards by people who could help you.