Startup Pitching and Communication
18 February 2026, Wednesday
18 February 2026, Wednesday
11:00 AM
12:30 PM
School of Computer Science & Engineering (SCSE), IILM University, Gurugram
IILM University, Gurugram
Dr. Sapna Arora | Supporting Faculty: Dr. Abhishek Toofani, Dr. Aarti Chugh
IILM University, Gurugram
Venture Ideation Session Module 4, focused on “Startup Pitching and Communication,” was designed to build startup pitch capability and provide real-world exposure to showcase ideas in the journey of building a venture, encompassing technological adaptation and strategy showcasing with emphasis on how effective speaking can transform an entire presentation. Ms. Lavang Khare, Strategic Communications Advisor at Adfactors PR, detailed the transition from a normal introduction to storytelling one’s entire personality through right keywords — shifting students’ understanding of pitching from a transactional presentation of facts to a narrative-driven communication of identity, vision, and value. The integration of different techniques to showcase a product was demonstrated through video-based cases of GullyLabs, illustrating how sustainable ventures continuously evolve alongside technological transformation rather than remaining static — providing students with a real-world case study in the dynamic relationship between communication strategy and venture development. The session provided deep insights into startup pitching, common pitching mistakes, the A.C.E. framework for pitching, and a leadership mindset, equipping students with a structured yet flexible approach to communicating entrepreneurial ideas with clarity, confidence, and persuasive impact. The session reinforced that effective communication is not a peripheral skill for technology entrepreneurs but a core competency that determines whether a technically sound idea can attract investment, talent, and market attention — making communication strategy as important as product development for startup success.
Students gained practical skills in startup pitching and communication, learning the transition from a standard introduction to personality-driven storytelling through strategic keyword selection — developing the narrative communication competency essential for effective entrepreneurial pitching. Students understood how to use video-based cases and communication techniques to showcase products and ventures, with the GullyLabs case studies providing tangible illustrations of how communication strategy supports and advances venture growth at different stages of development. Students received insights into common pitching mistakes and learned the A.C.E. pitching framework, gaining a structured and actionable approach to crafting compelling startup pitches that go beyond technical product features to communicate vision and leadership. Students developed a leadership mindset oriented toward entrepreneurial communication, understanding that executive presence and the ability to tell a convincing story are as important as technical competency in determining the success of a startup pitch. The session received positive and interactive feedback from students and faculty, with participants appreciating the practical insights drawn from executive presence — reflecting the high relevance and practical applicability of communication strategy training for technology students pursuing entrepreneurial paths.