TRYING to land an investment in your start-up business can be an uphill task and usually it’s a business pitch that makes or breaks a good deal.

As a budding entrepreneur it is important to know that research surrounding your business is paramount if you don’t intend to sound dumb in front of a group of investors and business personnel when presenting a business pitch.

Kristofferson Nunes, president of the UWI Entrepreneur Builder Club, told Career & Education that presenting a pitch to investors is usually a nerve wracking moment that is in essence, do or die.

He said business research and good persuasive skills go a long way but there are elements which will give you an edge over your competitor.

1. Know your market

Nunes said it is important to be aware of whom you will serve, and who is already in the business as they are your competitors. Being ignorant about this will make you seem unprepared and no one will put their money where they can’t see a profit or growth emerging.

2. Know your finances

“You need to know your finances like the back of your hands — where will your money come from, potential investors, how you intend to generate funding and how quickly you expect to have a turnover profit,” Nunes said.

3. Bring something new to the table. Nunes said it is important that your business is something that customers and consumers don’t already have, but need.

4. Know your business

According to Nunes, budding entrepreneurs should scope out every aspect of their business before they pitch.

“If you don’t do this you will be shut down and investors may even walk out on you. You have a few minutes to sell yourself and land a good investment, don’t allow ignorance and negligence regarding business research to make you miss out on potentially great opportunities for your business future,” he said.