How To Make Industry Standard Pitch Decks That Sell

The truth is, pitch decks aren't magic, there are frameworks to writing one that actually work.

I’ve 1:1 mentored filmmakers at all levels, and have used my pitch deck frameworks to help them:

• Write, direct, and release their first films
• Secure funding and festival selection for their films
• Land their first branded & commercial clients
• Partner with production companies for their first unscripted TV shows
• Sell and distribute their first branded, commercial, and film & TV projects

Today, I'm going to teach you how to begin outlining your own pitch deck in 3 simple steps.

After each step, I list the exact action items I personally use in my process.

Step 1: Pull from successful concepts 

Here's the thing: just because you have a formula doesn't mean it's plug and play. 

You must have your finger on the pulse when it comes to what's trending.

This is a muscle I constantly exercise on a day-to-day basis.

My proven approach?

Leverage existing, successful film & TV formats, themes, and storytelling while adding your own authentic twist.

Take that proven genre (i.e. sports documentaries) and deepen it with unique characters, settings, or storylines that haven’t been explored in the same way. 

For example, I wanted to show a different side of sports culture that centers women in sports specifically. 

Leaning into this niche has allowed me to create, pitch, partner on, and sell multiple films & TV shows in the sports space since 2020.

Action item:

Open a blank document. 

Research and write down 5-10 films or TV shows within your genre of interest.

Note which streaming platforms and production companies are attached.

Look at their upcoming slate.

Fill in the gaps.

This is the start of your mini-market research list.

Step 2: Reach the widest audience

The biggest mistake I see people make when pitching their idea is keeping it too niche.

Don't get me wrong, niche can be good if what you're making is trending in an upward trajectory.

Here are 3 examples of stats that helped me evaluate and validate my ideas in the women's sports space:

Wasserman: Media coverage for women's sports has nearly tripled in 5 years.

Nielsen: In 2024, women's elite sports will generate a revenue that surpasses $1 billion. A 300% increase since 2021.

Forbes: 2024 Olympics predictably showcase the growth of women’s sport beyond Caitlin Clark.

I often include examples like the above in my pitch decks because they provide justification for my idea.

Action item:

Find 4-5 reputable data points that support your idea.

Show growth over time, increasing engagement, press, and notable mentions.

Differentiate each point from one another to create a more well-rounded argument.

Don't be afraid to go big, this is your moment to convince someone it is the right time to invest in your idea.

If you can't find any, time to re-route!

Step 3: All about the access 

Why are you the person who can pull this off?

You need to prove that you’re not just another filmmaker with an idea.

Action item:

Write down the access you have to help get your project across the finish line.

Answer the questions below:

• Access to talent: Do you have relationships with key talent? How easy or hard is it to approach them? 
• Access to locations: Do you have special entryway to unique events or places that are integral to telling the story? What building blocks can you put in place now to secure them?
• Industry relationships: Do you have connections with companies, creatives, or crew that can help make your idea more viable? How quickly can you put that team together?

If you don't have answers yet, this should be your number 1 priority. 

Action Steps & Summary

How to begin outlining your pitch deck in 3 simple steps:

1. Identify trends

2. Reach the widest audience

3. Gain the necessary access