How Savvy Entrepreneurs Present Their Web3 Ventures in 2025

Web3, driven by blockchain technology, has transformed how people interact and do business online. It strives to make data open, secure, and free from central control. Cryptocurrencies, DeFi, and NFTs have changed how people perceive and use digital assets. The world of Web3 and DeFi, including new kinds of lending and trading, is growing fast. Seedtable lists 651 crypto and Web3 startups as of 2025, with total funding of $9.6 billion. On average, each company obtained funding of $14.7 million. Entrepreneurs seek real opportunities to pitch their ideas and obtain funding as competition gets serious.

A fresh chance to present Web3 business concepts

In this context, Killer Whales, the pioneering Web3 business reality TV show, is gearing up for its second season. Web3 innovators globally pitch their business ideas to the "Whales," a panel comprising industry veterans like venture capitalists who offer advice and guidance. Projects span from decentralized art platforms to blockchain security solutions, with participants striving for the sought-after "swim" votes and steering clear of "sink" votes. The season premiere is set to air on March 6 on X and Hello TV.

The show's panel, brought together by CoinMarketCap, HELLO Labs, and AltCoinDaily, features notable figures like Mario Nawfal, Anthony Scaramucci, and Gracy Chen. Successful Web3 businesses will gain valuable exposure, access to a prize pool, connections with leading investors, and global partnerships. Contestants compete for a $50,000 security voucher from Hacken, a $1.5 million project incubation fund, and a $100,000 accelerator package from CoinMarketCap. To secure the package, a project must receive at least 3 out of 5 "swim" votes. According to HELLO Labs cofounder Paul Caslin, 15% of the companies from the first season secured millions in funding, were acquired, or saw significant growth in company and product revenue. Killer Whales collaborates with CoinMarketCap, AltCoin Daily, Hacken, Bitget, and others to offer mentorship, support, exposure, and product or service packages to contestants.

The fastest growing segments

Following several unpredictable years, 2025 is forecasted to be a robust period for startup funding, especially for perceptive entrepreneurs. Web3 and blockchain startups are winning back investor confidence, especially those concentrating on practical applications. Secure financial solutions and tokenized assets will draw investment, with investors focusing on startups that demonstrate long-term viability and clear utility.

While AI continues to capture investor interest, the emphasis is shifting towards specialized applications. Exciting projects are integrating AI into automation, healthcare, cybersecurity, and other real-world sectors. Investors are looking for platforms that leverage AI to add value and enhance efficiency.

Early-stage funding remains highly competitive, with investors often channeling resources into a select few startups with high potential. Those able to showcase growth potential, a strong product-market fit, and a clear revenue strategy might secure long-term backing and larger investment rounds.

What makes a pitch compelling?

When presenting to venture capitalists, entrepreneurs must be familiar with the VC landscape. A VC firm's focus is often determined by its partners' industry or niche specialization. Firms might concentrate on sectors such as edtech, fintech, or other specific areas. Founders at the early development stage won't receive growth equity, as this is reserved for established firms needing capital to enter new markets, expand operations, or acquire other businesses. 

An investor values the entrepreneur's character as much as their ideas and skills. Research from Harvard Business Review indicates that venture capitalists prioritize the entrepreneur's character and trustworthiness over their expertise. The judges on Killer Whales delve into contestants' personal lives, financial situations, hobbies and interests, and even the dynamics between the entrepreneurs.

When presenting a business idea, entrepreneurs should focus on the problem they are addressing for their target audience and how they can solve it more effectively than competitors. They could illustrate a real-life scenario depicting a current or prospective customer's challenge and how their product or service can address it. This approach can engage investors on a personal level and inspire them to recognize the potential of an idea.

Kinds of pitches for entrepreneurs

Pitches are categorized based on the time available: up to 60 seconds, three to 10 minutes, and over 10 minutes. Brief pitches should highlight the startup's unique aspects and value proposition. It should also specify the amount of capital needed to launch.

The second type should succinctly outline the key elements of the idea in a way that intrigues prospective investors to learn more. The founder should emphasize their plan for monetizing the business, the required funding, and the market size. If the short pitch sparks interest, they may get the opportunity to deliver a more detailed presentation.

In a long-form pitch, they could present a real-life scenario to demonstrate demand and outline the corresponding market size. They should provide clear examples of how they intend to attract and retain clients, especially if the niche is highly competitive. Investors will want to know how they plan to exit, so entrepreneurs should detail their exit strategy.

Opportunities abound for startups in the Web3 era. Thanks to blockchain's decentralized nature, they can access a global data pool, which aids market analysis. Decentralized platforms can facilitate regulatory compliance and efficient data management. The fusion of blockchain and AI opens up new revenue streams and business models with immense potential for sustainable growth. Startups that emphasize smart spending, growth potential, and a clear path to profitability will stand out in 2025 and beyond.