I’m NOT a fan of startup battles and pitch competitions — whether it’s presidential tech awards, “Shark Tank”-style shows, or even large global startup battles.

And yes, this is said with respect to the good people who organize and support these events. Most of them really want to help founders.

But I strongly disagree with the core idea.

Why should a small group of judges decide which startup is “great” and which one is “so-so”?
That decision belongs to the market. To users. To customers who are willing to pay.

For founders: stop wasting your time.
Instead of rehearsing pitches and chasing trophies, focus on selling, learning from real users, and building a real business.

Winning a pitch competition may feel good — but it’s neither a true milestone nor a signal of long-term success. No reason to be proud.

Revenue, retention, and customers are.

P.S. Demo days and acceleration programs are useful

If you will ever meet me at these kind of events, I am forced to do this:)