#418 From Technical to Fundable: Pitch Deck Insights with Sergio Yankovenko

The CTO Show with Mehmet Gonullu

In this episode of The CTO Show with Mehmet, we explore the critical components of a successful pitch deck with Sergio Yankovenko, a seasoned digital consultant who has helped startups raise over $560 million. Sergio reveals his approach to transforming technical ideas into fundable business propositions, discusses how to avoid common pitch deck pitfalls, and offers strategies for tailoring your deck to different investor types. Tune in for practical insights every founder needs to know about fundraising!

Key Takeaways:

1. Tailor Your Pitch: Align your deck’s content with the investor’s focus (e.g., angels vs. VCs).

2. Simplify the Message: A concise 12-15 slide pitch deck with minimal text works best.

3. Highlight the Problem & Solution: Always start with these two key elements to hook investors.

4. Storytelling Matters: Weave a compelling narrative to inspire confidence and interest.

5. Smart Money Wins: Investors who bring connections and expertise are as valuable as funding.

6. AI’s Role in Fundraising: AI can assist with deck creation but can’t replace experience or research.

About the Guest:

Sergio Yankovenko is a digital consultant and startup advisor with over eight years of experience. Specializing in pitch deck optimization, he has worked on over 400 projects and helped startups secure over half a billion dollars in funding. Sergio is passionate about bridging the gap between technical innovation and investor expectations.

Connect with Sergio Yankovenko:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sergio-y/

Episode Highlights (Timestamps):

• [00:01:00] Sergio’s background and career in startup consulting.

• [00:03:00] Common mistakes founders make in pitch decks.

• [00:06:00] Structuring your deck for angels vs. VCs.

• [00:09:00] The importance of storytelling in pitching.

• [00:16:00] Why design should support, not overshadow, your message.

• [00:22:00] How AI is helping (and hurting) pitch deck preparation.

• [00:24:00] Final advice for founders preparing for fundraising.