Pitch Preparation Program

Photo collage with image on the left showcasing two men standing in front of a projector displaying a business pitch deck. Image on the right is a person presenting to a room of mock judges during a Tech419 practice pitch day.

Competition finalists complete a training program to equip them with the skills and strategies needed to deliver a compelling presentation and refine their pitch deck to perfection. Through deck reviews, feedback sessions, and in-person practices with a mock judging panel, participants will learn how to elevate their pitch, captivate the judges, and maximize chances of success in the Tech419 competition.

Finalists will select one person to present their technology during the prep program and final competition.

Additional team members are encouraged to attend prep sessions, contribute to revisions, and support from behind the scenes.

What to Expect

As part of the Tech419 Pitch Prep experience, each finalist will:

Participate in a Digital Feedback Session to receive initial input on their pitch and deck
Complete three in-person pitch practices with mock judging panels and live feedback
Submit updated pitch decks after each practice to refine clarity, structure, and flow
Get personalized coaching on storytelling, delivery, tone, pacing, and slide design
Gain expert guidance on how to respond to judge questions and frame their “ask”

You won’t go it alone—our team is here to help you think strategically, speak confidently, and present professionally. Founders who are fully engaged in the process—putting in the time, applying feedback, and practicing their delivery—consistently see the strongest results, both during the competition and in future opportunities.

2025 Dates

Revision Submissions

Please email pitch deck revisions to incubation@utoledo.edu by 5pm on the dates below.

Initial Pitch Decks Due - Tuesday, Aug. 19
Deck Revision #1 - Friday, Sept. 5
Deck Revision #2 - Tuesday, Sept. 23
Deck Revision #3 - Thursday, Oct. 16

Practice Sessions

Sessions are one hour and the incubation team will work with each presenter to schedule meeting times.

Digital Feedback Session - Thursday, Aug. 21
In-Person Pitch Practice #1 - Wednesday, Sept. 10
In-Person Pitch Practice #2 - Tuesday, Sept. 30
In-Person Pitch Practice #3 - Tuesday, Oct. 21

Final Decks Due - Monday, Oct. 27

Ready to apply? Click the button below to get started.

Apply to Pitch at Tech419

For questions about the competition or pitch program, email the incubation team at incubation@utoledo.edu.

Business Incubator