Hey fellow entrepreneurs and business enthusiasts! Gather around, because I've got some fantastic insights to share from an educational event we recently attended called "Pitch Perfect" at the fabulous Bakery Co-Working. This event was all about unlocking the secrets of securing grants and perfecting your pitch to investors, and believe me, it was nothing short of a transformative experience.
We had the privilege of learning from two incredible speakers, CeeRa SaDe and Katrina Julia, both of whom had a wealth of knowledge to share about funding our businesses. Katrina Julia, in particular, gave us some eye-opening golden nuggets that left us inspired and ready to conquer the world.
Did you know that U.S. startups with all-women teams received only 1.9% of the venture capital allocated in 2022? Yes, you read that right! It's time to challenge the status quo and tap into the money that's out there for us. Katrina emphasized the importance of aligning our passion, purpose, and people to drive profits. Understanding what you love, what you've overcome, your gifts, talents, and abilities, and how you influence and impact others can all play a crucial role in your pitch.
To pitch perfect, according to Katrina, means pitching with purpose and practice. Are you clear on your vision and metrics? Have you created a compelling pitch deck that showcases your business at its best? These are just a few of the key questions she encouraged us to ponder.
On the other hand, CeeRa SaDe taught us the ins and outs of grants, and boy, were there some eye-opening moments! Grants offer tax-free money, but they come with specific requirements and guidelines. She emphasized the importance of having a clear understanding of why you're starting your business and how it aligns with your purpose. Just like Katrina, CeeRa stressed the significance of knowing your "why."
When applying for grants, CeeRa highlighted essential factors to consider. You need a legitimate business address, and it's crucial to thoroughly read the grant requirements to ensure your brand meets the criteria. Properly present your proposal, marketing plan, and payroll structure. And here's an interesting tip – pay yourself twice! Registering your child with the Georgia Department of Labor as an employee can also open up additional opportunities within your business.
"Grant yourself the rhythm to pitch perfect! Investors and grants will be dancing to the beat of your success , as build your empire, Get Ready , and Nail That"- Crystal Jordan
G.R.A.N.T. - Get Ready And Nail That! - Crystal Jordan
When it comes to what you can include in your grant, think beyond the basics. Office equipment, trademark fees, and patent fees can all be part of your grant proposal. However, avoid vague requests like money to pay yourself, catch up on bills, or pay off debts.
This event was an eye-opener for us, and we left with a newfound understanding of securing grants and pitching to investors. The knowledge shared by CeeRa SaDe and Katrina Julia was invaluable and has the potential to make a significant impact on our businesses.
So, dear readers, if you're looking to take your business funding game to the next level, keep an eye out for "Pitch Perfect" events at The Bakery Co-Working. This experience will equip you with the tools, insights, and confidence to make your entrepreneurial dreams a reality. Until next time, keep pitching with purpose, practice, and passion! 💼🎤 #PitchPerfectEvent #BusinessFunding #SecuringGrants #PerfectPitch #EntrepreneurialJourney #TheBakeryCoWorking #WomenInBusiness #BusinessInsights
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