Theme T2.1: Designing a business for the CCIs: preparing a business plan and pitching business ideas

This theme introduces the concept of a business plan as a roadmap that systematises a business, details the business’ operational and financial objectives, determines the viability of a business idea, and guides decision-making. Given the relevance of the business plan when starting a business, which is crucial for the success of a venture in any field of activity and so as in CCIs, special attention is given to the content/key sections of the business plan: products and services (value proposition, key activities, resources), management and control, partnerships, market analysis, marketing strategy, and financial planning (forecasted income and costs, funding needs). Considering relevant communication techniques in business contexts, the role of pitching a business idea is approached. Relevant tips and especial guidance/mentoring on how to prepare and deliver a pitch for potential investors are presented.

  • Number of hours: 3 in class, 3 self study.

Material

Presentation T2.1
Reader T2.1

Case study/ies

Video Case Study T2.1

The pitch as a business communication tool by Juliana Lobo, communication specialist

Case study T2.1

The pitch as a business communication tool

Learning activities

Learning Activities T2.1

Test your knowledge

T2.1 Self Assessment

Are you up to a Challenge?

Considering the contents addressed throughout this Theme, give your best to answer the following questions.

T2.1 Self Assessment (Open Questions)

Topics for individual projects

Exercise 1. Make your pitch deck

Create a presentation in which you outline your business plan to potential partners or investors to secure funding for your business venture. You should prepare a presentation of not more than 8-10 slides – you should use interesting visual components – and not more than 8 minutes. The pitch is to be given in person, for a small professional audience.

Exercise 2. Create a video elevator pitch

Record yourself presenting your business idea quickly before a specialized group. The video should have a total duration of 3 minutes and you can add visual effects to the video to reinforce the message. Do not forget to create a script with a simple structure: the why of what you do, how you do it and what you do.

For both exercises, do not forget that you need to practice your pitch.