What are our technology assets, and what role does this pivotal component play in making our solutions the 'secret formula'?
Not all startups require a distinct Technology and IP slide, mainly if their business lacks unique technology or innovation. If you have a deep tech company, you need a technology and IP slide.
Your unique aspect could be a fresh business model, making it easier for customers to choose you, or leveraging existing tech platforms to commence your business—like an e-commerce site mainly known for its content and user experience (UX).
If you've developed a proprietary algorithm or advanced deeptech, don't shy away from showcasing it! Hardware startups should include patent lists and an overview of their methods. While algorithms might not be patented for software firms, this slide can highlight tangible results like the number of cyberattacks that have been prevented.
If you possess a product tech stack that provides insight into the development milestones, create something similar to the model utilized by ServiceNow's platform.
When preparing your Technology and IP slide, ensure that your presentation:
- Is visually engaging and not overcrowded with text. Use diagrams, charts, or images to help convey complex information.
- Balances technical detail with simplicity to keep it accessible to investors with varying levels of technical expertise.
- Demonstrates both the current value and future potential of your technology and IP to excite and reassure investors about the investment opportunity.
Here is a template example of an Intellectual Property slide that you could populate for your startup’s purpose (and leave out the areas that do not apply to your company).
In the therapy health app example, the Technology & IP slide might focus on using AI to match patients with therapists based on your exclusive, anonymized treatment data. You won't reveal your "secret sauce” but show how your AI technology leads to better patient results. As more patients use your app, the more intelligent your system becomes.
The Technology & IP slide should cover these points:
- What is your tech innovation (hardware, software, business model)?
- Have you filed any patents or design rights?
- Do you own your tech or rely on external pieces?
- Who is your CTO? What's their background?
- Is your development team in-house or external?
- What’s coming next, i.e., your product roadmap?
- What’s the release frequency of product improvements?
- Are there any unique insights or proprietary data from your tech?
- What does your tech stack look like?
Refrain from dwelling too long on this slide to avoid slowing your pitch. Keep it simple, showcasing how your tech simplifies life. Remember, simplicity sells!
