What investors look for in an early-stage Web3 pitch

Every year at Zebu Live, a shortlist of startups takes the main stage to pitch in front of a room full of VCs, operators and potential customers. Having screened hundreds of applications alongside our investor network, including Steven Bartlett's Flight Fund, the ones that stand out tend to get the same four things right.

1. A strong founding team

Vision, expertise and the ability to execute under pressure. Investors want to see why this team is the one to build it.

2. Early traction

Growth metrics, proof of demand and real users. It doesn't need to be huge, it needs to be real.

3. A clear problem and solution

Why your idea solves a real pain point, and why it changes things. If it takes three slides to explain the problem, it's not clear enough yet.

4. A competitive edge

What makes you different, and why you'll win. "We're faster and cheaper" is rarely enough on its own.

It all comes back to people

In Steven Bartlett's own words:

"The investments I make are in the people."

The right founder can reshape the path of a business entirely. Grit, clarity and adaptability often outweigh the original idea.

"A bad idea with a great entrepreneur is worth backing. They'll pivot and figure it out."

So if you're preparing a pitch, spend as much time on showing who you are as on what you're building. The idea will probably change. The team is what investors are really backing.

Getting ready to raise or launch? Talk to the Flight3 team about positioning, narrative and getting in front of the right rooms.

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