Pitching Trainer - Food System Challenge (FSC)

Context & Background

The Food System Challenge Program (FSC), funded by the World Food Programme (WFP) and implemented by Berytech, is designed to support Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) operating within Lebanon’s food and agri-food sectors. This initiative aims to address critical challenges in the food system, such as improving food security, enhancing production efficiency, and promoting sustainable practices.

As part of this program, selected SMEs are provided with a comprehensive support package, including business development services, technical assistance, and financial grants. These resources are intended to help SMEs scale their innovative solutions and contribute to the resilience and sustainability of Lebanon’s food system.

One of the key components of the Food System Challenge program (FSC) is the ability of SMEs to effectively present their projects to a panel of jurors. This is crucial for securing further support, investment, and recognition. To this end, the program seeks to engage a pitching trainer who can equip SME participants with the skills and confidence needed to deliver compelling presentations and to communicate effectively their value propositions.

Scope of work and Deliverables

The objective of this training is to prepare SMEs enrolled in the Food System Challenge program (FSC) program to effectively present their projects to a jury. The training will focus on enhancing their pitching skills, including the structure and design of their pitch decks, delivery techniques, and handling the stress of pitching in a competitive environment.

The pitching trainer will play a vital role in preparing SMEs for their presentations, focusing on various aspects such as crafting a clear and persuasive message, understanding the audience, structuring the pitch, and utilizing visual aids effectively. The training will include practical exercises and feedback sessions to ensure participants can apply these skills in real-world scenarios.

Methodology

• The training will be delivered through a combination of workshops, one-on-one sessions, and practical exercises.
• Emphasis will be placed on interactive and hands-on learning to ensure participants can apply the skills in real-world scenarios.
• Feedback and support will be provided throughout the training process to help SMEs continuously improve their pitches.

Deliverables

1. Workshop on Pitch Deck Structure and Design
   • Conduct a comprehensive workshop of 3 to 4 hours to provide guidance on the structure and design of an effective pitch deck.
   • Topics to include: crafting a clear and persuasive message, organizing content logically, and using visual aids effectively.
   • Provide examples of successful pitch decks and common mistakes to avoid.

1. One-on-One Pitch Deck Review Sessions
   • After SMEs have worked on their pitch decks independently for approximately four days, conduct individual review sessions.
   • Provide detailed feedback on the content, structure, and design of each pitch deck.
   • Provide specific suggestions for improvement and refinement.

1. Training on 10-Minute Pitch Delivery
   • Train SMEs on delivering a concise and impactful 10-minute pitch using their PowerPoint pitch decks.
   • Focus on key elements such as clarity, pacing, and engaging the audience.
   • Conduct practice sessions with constructive feedback to help SMEs refine their delivery.

1. Body Language and Credibility Enhancement
   • Provide training on leveraging body language to increase credibility and confidence during the pitch.
   • Cover techniques for maintaining eye contact, using gestures effectively, and projecting a confident demeanor.
   • Include practical exercises to help SMEs become more aware of their body language and its impact.

1. Stress Management and Handling Jury Interactions
   • Train SMEs to handle the stress of pitching to jury members.
   • Provide strategies for managing tension, staying focused, and answering questions confidently.
   • Simulate jury interactions to help SMEs practice and prepare for the actual pitching scenario.

    Qualifications

• Experienced in delivering the aforementioned training and mentorship.
• A minimum of 8 years of relevant experience
• Demonstratable knowledge of the various fields related to pitching including but not limited to:  Body Language, Public Speaking, Negotiation Skills, Graphic Design…
• Effective communicator with any audience in an organized, professional manner.
• Creative problem-solver with thorough attention to detail.

Timeline and Application
The selected Consultant is expected to start his/her activities the soonest after selection; the exact timeline is 10 days of intervention for 3 companies between July 2024 and August 2024  as follow:

• Day 1: Workshop on Pitch Deck Structure and Design – A common workshop of 3 to 4 hours for the 3 companies.
• Days 2-5: SMEs work independently on their pitch decks.
• Days 6-8: One-on-One Pitch Deck Review Sessions – One day of individual review session for each company.
• Day 9: Training on 10-Minute Pitch Delivery – A common session of 6 to 8 hours.
• Day 10: Body Language and Credibility Enhancement, Stress Management and Jury Interactions – A Common session of 6 to 8 hours.

The total budget allocated for the intervention is within the range of USD 1,000– USD 1,200.