How to Apply to Pitch - Next Deadline is July 15!

Our number one FAQ at RVC is, “How do I pitch to RVC investors?” So today, we’re providing an easy how-to guide for applying for funding through RVC.

The TL;DR is to visit www.rockiesventureclub.org/pitch, where you’ll find detailed information, a link to the venture pitch application, and a separate link to non-venture funding options.

Angel and Venture Capital vs. Traditional Funding

I like to say that startup funding is best thought of as a toolkit. Different financial tools are designed to solve different problems, and venture capital is just one tool in the toolbox.

If you’re looking for funding, it’s best to start by asking yourself, “Am I building a venture-backed company?” or “Should I pursue traditional financing?”

Many founders begin by visiting their local bank, only to be turned down because they don’t yet have multiple years of positive cash flow. That doesn’t necessarily mean the business is bad. It may simply mean that a traditional bank is not the right funding source at that stage.

What Are Angel and Venture Capital Investments?

There are many ways to distinguish a venture deal from a lifestyle business, and the answer can vary by company and industry. However, the main considerations that an angel group will typically look for include:

1. A clear path to an exit that could produce a return of 10X or greater.
2. Strong competitive moats—not only to protect the company from competitors, but also to create strategic value for a potential acquirer.
3. A go-to-market strategy focused on meaningful scale, rather than simply reaching $1 million to $3 million in revenue.
4. A team with grit and a commitment to building a valuable company that can be sold within approximately five to seven years.
5. Good corporate governance, including a balanced and effective board.

You can find more information about what RVC looks for—including geography, deal size, company stage, industry, and other criteria—HERE.

To apply to RVC as a venture deal, go to www.rockiesventureclub.org/pitch and click “Apply to Pitch.” You’ll be taken to our SparkXYZ platform, which our deal review teams use to collaborate, evaluate companies, and decide which applicants will move forward to pitch.

Traditional and Non-Venture Funding

Traditional financing options can include banks, although banks will typically provide a quick “no” to early-stage startups because their risk models are not designed for companies without significant operating history.

Once certain revenue and operating benchmarks have been reached, however, many additional options may become available. These can include lines of credit, asset-backed lending, SBA loans, real estate financing, equipment leasing, and other capital solutions.

To apply for lines of credit, leasing, and other non-venture funding options, visit www.rockiesventureclub.org/pitch. At the bottom of the page, you’ll find a link for non-venture financing.

The application process is quick and easy. If your company is approved, funding may be available very quickly—in some cases, within just a few days.

What If You’re Not Selected?

If you’re not selected to pitch or don’t receive funding, don’t despair.

Nearly 100% of experienced investors will confirm that many startups begin pitching too early. The concept may be strong, but the company may not yet have enough traction, validation, or operating history to be ready for investment.

From the startup’s point of view, waiting can also be a good strategy. The longer you can build traction before raising capital, the more likely you are to raise at a stronger valuation and avoid unnecessary founder dilution.

Pitching to RVC is competitive, and sometimes a company may simply be applying during an especially competitive season. RVC encourages companies to return and apply again three, six, or nine months later. We’re always happy to take another look after a company has gained additional traction.

Finally, there is never any cost to apply to pitch or receive funding through RVC.

If you’re selected, you’ll receive free access to our Pitch Academy and a free due diligence process. We’ll also share the completed due diligence report with you so that you can use it to help complete your investment syndicate.

We’re excited to meet the best startups in the region, and we hope you’ll apply.