The ‘First 10 Seconds’ Rule

Investors decide within the first 10 seconds whether they’re engaged — or already looking for an excuse to pass.

A weak start means a lost deal. A cinematic, high-impact opening? That gets funded.

Here's how to make those first 10 seconds count:

1) Start with Impact – Avoid long intros. Open with a bold statement, compelling question, or surprising insight that makes investors sit up and pay attention. Example: "The way we consume sports content is broken. We’re here to fix it."

2) Make It Visual – Investors don’t just process words — they respond to clear, striking visuals that tell a story. A cinematic pitch film or premium storybook ensures they see the opportunity before they even hear the numbers.

3) Create Urgency – Why now? If investors don’t feel that this opportunity is time-sensitive or inevitable, they won’t move. Show the market shift, competitor movement, or industry breakthrough that makes this the moment to invest.

If you don’t grab attention immediately, you’ll never get it back.

Make your pitch impossible to ignore.