With applications for this year’s Tata Varsity Pitch Competition launching soon, now’s the time to start preparing your applications for when #VP2024 goes LIVE.
To help you nail your application, we spoke to last year’s finalists to get their insights on what made them successful when submitting their video pitches, going to the Semi-Finals, and representing their category in the Grand Final.
Read their top tips below!
#1: Use Creativity Create Impact
“I would encourage you to throw out any pitches you have done before and use this opportunity to develop a new way to showcase you and your venture’s story.”
Says Sarah Bailey, founder of #TVP2023 Winner The Even Project.
“Sometimes I think we can fall into the trap of optimising pitches to impress people too much. We have found trying to look for ways to play on more emotive feelings like delight, and/or shock can do more of your talking. This is your opportunity to take creative risks!”
The NACUE team receives hundreds of applications for 30 semi-finalist spots. Each business has their own impressive achievements, so as a pitching competition, your goal is to be memorable. Don’t be afraid to use your creativity to leave a lasting impression!
#2: Why YOU?
One of the key questions to answer in your pitch. Kitt Medical, Finalist in the Health & Wellbeing category, highlighted a critical element to include in your pitch.
“Tell your story! People support people. Show why you care — and why everyone else should too.”
Enturi Solutions, finalist for the Digital & Technical category, echoed this:
“Become who YOU are!”
Startups are built by the team. While we want to understand your innovation, we also want to see who is building the business, and why you’re the right team to get the job done.
#3: Ask for feedback
As important as it is to get customer feedback, apply these same principles to your Tata #VP2024 application.
“I recommend practising your pitch extensively, embracing all feedback, and connecting with other competitors. The insights and networks you gain are as valuable as any prize.”
Says Tap’N’Tour, finalist for the Creative & Design category. Elbow Engineers, 2023 People’s Choice Award Winner, adds:
“Embrace the resources and support offered by NACUE. Their expertise is invaluable and can truly elevate your pitch. Remember, even if you don’t win, the program offers continuous learning and self-improvement. Keep coming back and leverage the guidance of the Tata Varsity Pitch team to refine your venture.”
NACUE has an abundance of resources available to help you prepare your application, so don’t forget to use them! Find tips on our blog from past Finalists, read the FAQs, or join one of our preparation webinars.
#4: Build your Network
Building a startup is hard work, meaning it’s all the more important to surround yourself with people that can support you through your journey.
The team from Defensive Thinking, finalist for the Early Stage category, highlighted how to make the most of this opportunity.
“The introductions and connections made on the sidelines of the pitch competition are invaluable. Engage actively with other participants, mentors, and judges. These connections can lead to partnerships, collaborations, and invaluable advice. The insights and opportunities that arise from these interactions often prove to be as significant as the pitch competition itself.”
#5: Just do it!
The Even Project, #VP2023 Winner from the Social Impact category, shared another top tip:
“For any startups considering applying: go for it! The Tata Varsity Pitch is a huge partnership with so many organisations coming together to create opportunities for young entrepreneurs. It was an incredible springboard for Even, with massive upshifts in our pace and visibility and since joining the family, it feels like we have 100’s more people fighting in our corner.”
We get it, imposter syndrome is real. But at TVP we support ideas at any stage — we even have an Early Stage category if you’re just starting out. So we encourage you to take a leap, there’s nothing to lose. And if you don’t make it, it’ll be a valuable learning experience that you can take forward — and implement when you reapply next year!
Bonus Tip: Meet the Judging Criteria
We spoke to the team at NACUE and asked them what they look for when judging the incoming video pitches.
“Pay attention to the judging criteria when preparing your pitch and make sure that you hit every mark, as well as keeping your video pitch to 60 seconds only!”
There are three criteria (Innovation, Market Opportunity and Financial Viability) the judges will be looking for in your #VP2024 application, so make sure you explain how you meet these in your 60-second video pitch.
The Tata Varsity Pitch, powered by NACUE, is the UK’s leading pitch competition for student and recent graduate entrepreneurs. Finalists get access to an impressive line-up of mentors, participation in a 2-day skills bootcamp, guaranteed pitching feedback and one will win a National Title and £15,000 (equity free) to invest in their business.
Sign-up here to be the first to know when applications open!
