Equals, a startup that recently raised a $16 million Series A round, took a unique approach by redesigning its own pitch deck. Their mission is to enhance the capabilities of a spreadsheet rather than replace it. As someone who extensively uses spreadsheets, this strategy resonates with me, as I have previously developed complex software solutions using spreadsheets as the foundation.
Moreover, as a connoisseur of pitch decks, I appreciate Equals’ deck’s vibrant and attractive design.
One aspect I found intriguing is that they divided the deck into a pitch deck and a data deck, with the latter illustrating the company’s financials using seven slides. I often advise startups to present the narrative with words first and then back it up with numbers.
Let’s explore further what makes this deck impressive.
We are seeking unique pitch decks for teardowns. If you would like to submit your own, here’s how you can do that.
Slides in this deck
The traction slides display certain redacted figures, and a separate data deck contains extensive redacted data. Additionally, the deck lacks market size and go-to-market slides, which will be discussed further.
- Cover slide
- Opening statement
- Mission slide
- Problem slide
- Solution/mission slide
- Product (“Meet Equals”)
- Product demo slide
- Product validation slide
- Traction slide
- Traction 2 slide
- Product highlights slide
- Product roadmap slide
- Team slide
- Ask and use of funds slide
- Closing slide
Three things to love
Making it real
Equals effectively outlines the problem they are addressing with their software’s usage cases. This presents a refreshing way to articulate the issue they are solving. It demonstrates the company’s creativity in tackling a largely tedious problem, distinguishing it from other competitors in the space.
So it’s Excel, but more online
Equals adeptly communicates their product’s essence in simple terms, making it easier for non-technical individuals to comprehend. This skillful abstraction of the product’s complexity showcases the team’s ability to present a compelling yet accessible narrative.
That’s how you map a path to the future!
Equals offers a clear, high-level overview of their product roadmap, avoiding excessive technical details. Their capacity to focus on priority products while maintaining a conversational tone in explaining their vision exhibits their adeptness in steering board-level discussions about product priorities.
I’ve no idea what they’re going to link Command + K to, but it doesn’t really matter.
Finding a solution with these characteristic slides could be beneficial for startups, steering clear of potential product-focused conversational hurdles.
Three things that could be improved
Be mindful of your audience
Equals’ testimonials slide is unclear and possibly ineffective in an investment pitch deck. It lacks specificity, clarity, and strong testimonials from recognizable figures. The ambiguity posed by the testimonials reduces their persuasive quality and could compromise investor confidence.
So . . . how big is this market?
Equals would benefit from incorporating a go-to-market slide, offering investors valuable insights into their market strategy and customer acquisition approach. The absence of these details represents a missed opportunity to elucidate vital aspects of achieving market penetration and success.
What are the goals, though?!
Equals should enhance the specificity of its “use of funds” slide. By providing clearer, quantified financial goals and outlining how the funds will align with business objectives, they can build investors’ trust and credibility. A more precise and transparent approach will significantly strengthen their message and positioning, aiding future fundraising efforts.
The full pitch deck
If you want your own pitch deck teardown featured on TechCrunch, here’s more information. Also, check out all our Pitch Deck Teardowns all collected in one handy place for you!
