LP Deck vs Startup Deck
An investor deck is a tool used by startup companies to raise money from investors. An LP (limited partner) deck is a similar tool used by venture capital firms to raise money from limited partners, such as pension funds and endowments.
The main difference between an investor deck and an LP deck is the intended audience. An investor deck is typically used to pitch a startup company to potential investors, while an LP deck is used to pitch a venture capital firm to potential limited partners.
According to PitchBook, there were approximately 9,950 venture capital firms worldwide as of December 31, 2019.
The top 10 venture capital firms in the world, based on total assets under management (AUM), are:
1. Sequoia Capital
2. Andreessen Horowitz
3. Accel Partners
4. Benchmark
5. Index Ventures
6. Insight Partners
7. NEA
8. GV
9. Greylock Partners
10. Bessemer Venture Partners
There are many successful MPs globally. However, some of the most successful MPs include Bill Gurley of Benchmark, Peter Fenton of Benchmark, and Marc Andreessen of Andreessen Horowitz.
The ideal structure for an LP deck will vary depending on the specific venture capital firm and the type of investment they are seeking. However, there are a few key elements that should be included in every LP deck:
- An overview of the venture capital firm, including its investment strategy and track record
- A description of the startup companies in the venture capital firm's portfolio
- An analysis of the market opportunity for the startup companies
- A financial projection for the startup companies
Some tips for creating a successful LP deck include:
- Keep it simple: The LP deck should be easy to understand and should not include any unnecessary information.
- Tell a story: The LP deck should tell a coherent story about the venture capital firm and the startup companies it is investing in.
- Highlight the market opportunity: The LP deck should emphasize the potential market opportunity for the startup companies.
- Make it visually appealing: The LP deck should be visually appealing and easy to navigate.
LPs want to see that their MPs (managing partners) have a clear understanding of the venture capital firm's investment strategy and are able to execute it effectively. LPs also want to see a track record of success in investments made by the venture capital firm. In addition, LPs want to see that the venture capital firm is investing in high-growth startup companies with a large market opportunity.
The best way for an MP to showcase their strengths is by creating a strong LP deck that highlights the venture capital firm's investment strategy, track record of success, and portfolio of high-growth startups. Additionally, the MP should be able to articulate the investment thesis for each startup company in the venture capital firm's portfolio.
The investment thesis is extremely important to an LP, as it provides a roadmap for the venture capital firm's investment strategy. The investment thesis should be clear, concise, and easy to understand. It should also be supported by data and analysis.