PowerPoint
Once you have finalized your full written business plan, you are ready to create a
PowerPoint presentation highlighting the plan's major points and details. The best layout takes the viewer from opportunity to proposition without boring or confusing them. Forget stagnant white or pale backgrounds. Go online and download a set of "eye-appealing"
PowerPoint background slides relative to your business concept. Decide what type of layout you would like to use. It is really important that fonts remain consistent throughout and are large enough for proper viewing. Typically headers should be about 32-36 point and text should be no less than 20 point. Use a Sans Serif font such as Helvetica or Arial for normal text and a Serif font such as Times Roman or Book Antiqua in titles to show good contrast. Try to use bulleted points as opposed to paragraphs. And use lots of images, charts and diagrams to make your case. Always your spelling and grammar, as well as the timing of all slides. The presentation should include an introduction, body and conclusion. Start with a title slide that includes the title of the presentation, who the presentation is for (the audience), who is presenting (you) and the date it is being presented. The next slide should be an overview, agenda or table of contents to explain what the presentation entails. Next, create the meat of the presentation by creating slides that discuss the market opportunity, the management team, the concept, risks and risk reduction strategies, key objectives, marketing plans and financial highlights. End the presentation with a summary of the key points. Finally, be ready for questions and make sure you have the answers.
