Pitching Through Uncertainties: Our Early Startup Journey And The Uncharted Waters Ahead

Photo by Austin Distel on Unsplash

Entrepreneurial journeys are riddled with moments of triumphs and setbacks. Over the first two years of building my startup, I extensively engaged with pitching competitions and venture capitalists.

Though laden with promise, our pitches frequently hit the wall, falling short of impressing the custodians of funds and support.

Sowing Seeds: The Birth of Raqib

Raqib emerged as a beacon of hope and innovation, designed meticulously to monitor senior citizens and pilgrims during the Hajj.

With a prototype that garnered praise from close circles, we were buoyed with optimism.

Despite the initial acclaim, the product found itself ensnared in the challenging terrains of market traction and customer acquisition while trying to perfect its pricing model.

Facing the Judges: The Pitch Dilemma

Pitching competitions revealed the chasm between promise and tangible success.

Although well-received by friends and followers, our presentations consistently failed to strike a chord with judges and venture capitalists.

The lack of market traction and the product being in the pilot stage were recurrent points of contention and disqualification.

Navigating a Pandemic: Pivot to IoT

Covid-19 cast long shadows over ambitions and plans, immobilizing Raqib’s progress for nearly two years. In these challenging times, we shifted our focus towards an IoT platform, a direction that promised market traction and renewed hope.

IoT: A New Hope with Old Challenges

With the IoT platform, we re-entered the pitching arenas with vigor. However, the questions about scalability and current profitability resurfaced, turning prospective victories into learning experiences.

While we inch closer to profitability, the lengthy sales cycles and gradual market adoption for IoT products present hurdles we are still learning to overcome.

Towards Resolution and Improved Pitches

The journey continues with an unyielding spirit and lessons learned from each pitch.

As we approach a new phase of profitability and strive to resolve scalability concerns, I harbor hopes of delivering a pitch that not only resonates but wins unequivocally.

Seeking Collective Wisdom: Your Feedback Matters

Your perspectives, feedback, and suggestions are invaluable as we navigate these challenges.

Please share your thoughts and insights, which could illuminate our path and contribute to crafting a compelling and victorious pitch.

Please engage with us through your comments.

Thank you for participating in our journey!

Conclusion:

The tale of Raqib serves as a poignant reminder that the journey is as crucial as the destination.

Regardless of its immediate outcome, each pitch is a stepping stone toward mastery and success.

While we recalibrate and prepare for upcoming pitches armed with IoT, your insights and support are anticipated and appreciated. Together, let’s steer towards a future where pitches impress and triumph.


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You can also follow my Medium Publications Aspiring Writer’s Journey, Influencer’s Journey, Startup Survival Journey, and IoT World.


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Author: Mazlan Abbas

IOT Evangelist

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