VC x Founder Fundamentals: Pitch Deck & GTM Teardown

You asked for it, and we’re delivering. We’re bringing Katie Weiss back for a hands-on masterclass that will make you throw away your current pitch deck and build a new one that investors will actually pay attention to.
Most founders think they have a clear value prop until they face a seed-stage VC. In a market that now demands operational efficiency over pure growth at all costs, your pitch deck and Go-To-Market (GTM) strategy need to be airtight.
Join Startup Grind for a Pitch Deck & GTM Teardown with Katie Weiss, Principal at ff Venture Capital. Since 2008, ffVC has been a cornerstone of the NYC venture ecosystem, with a portfolio (including AI, Robotics, and Manufacturing) that advances to Series B at 5x the industry average.
Drawing on her background as a program builder at Salesforce and her leadership of ffVC’s AI Point Solutions (AIPS) program, Katie will pull back the curtain on the specific metrics and narrative structures that get checks signed in 2026.
Who Should Attend
The Seed-Stage Founder: You are currently refining your deck for a 2026 raise and want to see how a professional investor audits slides in real-time.
The Hard Tech Builder: You are navigating the complex GTM cycles of AI, Robotics, or Energy and need a playbook that goes beyond standard SaaS models.
The Transitioning Operator: You’re a PM or Engineer moving from MVP to a production-grade business and want to understand the defensibility markers VCs look for.
Key Takeaways: What You'll Learn
🎯 The Real-Time Audit: Watch as Katie tears down sample deck structures to show what earns a follow-up meeting and what leads to an immediate 'no.'
📈 GTM for the New Economy: Get specific on Go-To-Market strategies for AI and automation, moving past the hype to demonstrate actual unit economics and scalability.
🤖 Operational Defensibility: Learn how to present your internal use of AI as a competitive advantage that reduces costs and increases your firm's value.
⚠️ The Outreach Playbook: Beyond the deck, learn the modern protocol for founder-to-VC outreach, timing, and valuation conversations.
Your ticket includes drinks, food, and a seat at the table for one of the most tactical sessions we've hosted this year.
You'll also meet dozens of other high-performing entrepreneurs who are creating their next big thing. Seriously, it's some of the best founder networking in the city.
Space is limited. Secure your spot and get ready to refine your pitch deck.
Getting a ticket guarantees admission. No waitlisting.