Do’s and don’ts for your next investor pitch (with animated videos)

So, you’ve decided to whip up a pitch with an animated video. Good call! Animation is more than just fun — it’s a smart way to explain complex ideas without putting investors to sleep. But before you hit play on that shiny new video, let’s talk about the do’s and don’ts of using animation in your pitch. You’re not pitching Toy Story 5 here; you’re selling a business.

Disclaimer: Get an animation studio first. Seriously, don’t make an animation video pitch on your own. Get a company with previous experience in delivering animated videos for investor audiences. You have all the information, they have all the tools to make it work for you. 

DO: Use Animation to Simplify, Not Overwhelm

Investors aren’t looking for the next blockbuster; they want clarity. A well-done animation can make your pitch pop by breaking down complicated processes into digestible, bite-sized visuals. But it’s easy to get carried away with flashy effects and funky transitions.

Make sure the animation serves the story of your product or service. Keep it simple and focus on explaining your core value proposition. Communicate it with your studio, and explain well all the goals. Collaborate with them.  Pro Tip: If your investors can’t explain your idea to someone else after the pitch, it’s back to the drawing board—literally.

DON’T: Go Overboard With Length

Yes, you’ve got a lot to say, but investors have a lot to hear. And when it comes to an animated pitch, less is often more. Keep your video to a tight 60 to 90 seconds. This is a pitch, not a full-on feature film.

Why? Investors will have to see (or read or listen) lots of pitches. Maybe on the same day. You want to be short and memorable. The longer your video drags on, the more likely they’ll start checking their watches (or worse, their phones).

DO: Highlight Your Key Metrics

Animation is great at visualizing data. Don’t miss out on this chance to show the real numbers. Whether it’s projected growth, customer acquisition rates, or revenue models, investors want to see the money-making potential. Use slick graphics and charts that fit seamlessly into your animated story.

Pro Tip: Include the metrics that make your business look as irresistible as the last unicorn startup. Investors will appreciate seeing real value backed by data — just avoid making it feel like a math class.

DON’T: Overcomplicate the Storyline

We all want to impress other people. Especially, if they can give us the money to run that business we want. But. The purpose of your animation is to make things clearer, not create a plot so twisty it feels like an episode of The Game of Thrones. Don’t be epic.

Keep your story linear and to the point. What’s the problem you’re solving? How are you solving it? Why should they care? Quick rule of thumb: If your grandma can’t understand your animation… no, don’t rely on that. But check out what Investors expect in animation. Dial it back, if needed. 

DO: Use Animation to Showcase Market Validation

If you’ve already got some traction, use your animation to highlight it. Whether it’s customer testimonials, early sales, or partnerships, let investors know that people are already buying what you’re selling. Market validation is pure gold in the eyes of investors.

Pro Tip: Use animated infographics or simple data visualizations to show how your user base is growing or how you’ve outpaced competitors. This gives your pitch an extra layer of credibility and shows that you’ve got more than just a good idea — you’ve got momentum.

DON’T: Forget a Call-to-Action

You’ve wowed them with a killer animation and clear value props, but now what? Always end with a call-to-action — whether it’s booking a follow-up meeting, reviewing financial documents, or simply getting in touch. You want to steer the conversation toward the next steps. Discuss with your animation company what kind of CTA is the best fit in your pitch video. 

Bonus tip: Use the last frame of the animation to make this point super clear. Investors love direction, and this seals the deal with professionalism.

DO: Back Your Vision With Financial Projections

It’s easy to get swept up in the creative aspects of animation, but don’t forget the bottom line. Investors need to see realistic financial projections. Use your animation to visualize key financial data: how much funding you need, how it will be allocated, and the returns investors can expect.

Pro Tip: If your animation can show a compelling use of funds — like where their investment will go and how it will fuel growth — investors are more likely to feel confident writing that check.

DON’T: Ignore the Competitive Landscape

Every investor wants to know one thing: How are you going to dominate your competition? Your animation should touch on your competitive advantage. Whether it’s proprietary technology, a unique business model, or an untapped market, make sure your animation highlights what sets you apart.

Quick Tip: A clever way to do this? Include a comparison chart or a “versus” section in your animation. Investors love a visual representation of why you’re the best option on the market.

Conclusion 

Using animation in your investor pitch can be a game-changer — if done right. Stick to the essentials: clarity, data, and personality.

Remember, the goal is to engage investors and show them why you’re worth their investment, not just entertain them. When balanced properly, animation can leave a lasting impression and get you that crucial follow-up meeting (or better yet, a deal). One last thing: contact us if you need any help!