Why should I pitch?
Weekly Rocket Pitch winners get a free meal and milkshake at Chick-Fil-A…plus the chance to compete at our end of semester Faceoff & sweep one of these prizes!
🥇 1st Place: $750
🥈 2nd Place: $500
🥉 3rd Place: $250
Why should I attend?
Hear great ideas, get inspired, & earn points toward winning swag! You just may hear THE next big idea.
Wait! I don’t know what I’m doing…
All good. Most people come watch a few Rocket Pitches or meet with a coach before they pitch themselves. That said, Rocket Pitch is meant to be low pressure. If you come up with an idea half way through the event, we encourage you to pitch it anyways.
What is a Rocket Pitch?
A 120-second, fast-paced pitch that have 4 key tenants:
1. The Problem
All great products solve problems. Your problem can be something you’ve personally faced, something your Aunt Susan has been complaining about, or something much, much bigger.
2. The Addressable Market
The best Rocket Pitches aim at solving a problem that a large market can identify with. This is a great time to mention market statistics, like how many people are affected, how much money is in the market, and where the market is headed.
3. The Current Solutions
More often than not, someone else will also be trying to solve the problem you’re addressing. Tell us what their solution leaves out and why that’s a problem.
4. Your Solution
You’ve laid a great foundation for us, so now tell us what you’re going to build. If you’re further along in the process, tell us how it has evolved and what’s coming next. And though it is by no means a requirement, a clever name never hurts.
1. The Problem
All great products solve problems. Your problem can be something you’ve personally faced, something your Aunt Susan has been complaining about, or something much, much bigger.
2. The Addressable Market
So while you are encouraged to bring us all of your problems, the best rocket pitches aim at solving a problem that a large market can identify with. This is a great time to mention market statistics like how many people are affected, how much money is in the market, and where the market is headed.
3. The Current Solutions
More often than not, someone else will also be trying to solve the problem you are addressing. Tell us what their solution leaves out and why that is a problem.
4. Your Solution
You’ve laid a great foundation for us, so now tell us what you’re going to build. If you’re further along in the process, tell us how it has evolved and what’s coming next. And though it is by no means a requirement, a clever name never hurts.
Williamsburg Rides: An Example Rocket Pitch
This is a very simple, entry-level pitch. Depending on the competition, it might pull out a victory, but it would most likely receive advice in regard to the market size and competition. If you’re lacking an idea, come pitch this one—it’s a great way to test the waters and see how it works.
Some Frequently Asked Questions
Can I come if I don’t have an idea?
Of course! Most people watch as an audience member for a few weeks before they pitch. You are always welcome to come hang out, see what people are working on, and offer any advice you have.
How am I supposed to do this in four minutes?
It’s tough, but that’s the point. The 4-minute limit is in place to force you to think through the entire problem and solution. It’s easy to ramble, but to fit everything in that time frame, pitchers usually know their stuff.
That said, don’t let the time limit be the thing keeping you from pitching! The best way to beat the clock is by practicing. After every pitch, we’ll give you feedback as to what went well, what you can cut out, and what needs to stay.
What happens if my pitch is bad?
Your pitch won’t be bad! And we love seeing students come back week after week. You are always welcome to pitch the same idea twice (or 3 times!) — improving is the whole point.
What do I do with my winnings?
You’re allowed to do whatever you’d like with your winnings. If you want to celebrate with pizza, go for it. The most dedicated Rocket Pitchers use their winnings to continue their venture. Following a win, our Community Director will reach out, and if you’re interested, they’ll pair you with a mentor. You’ll be able to watch your idea grow into something tangible — it’s quite exciting.
