Mandatory Arrival Time
Arrive and be seated before 10:00 AM sharp. If you arrive late and are just attending, you will only be allowed to enter the room during a transition between presenters to minimize disruption. If you are supposed to pitch and arrive late, you will be asked to join as an attendee.
Seating
Please take a seat away from the door immediately upon arrival. Standing by the door is a fire hazard.
Zoom Link
Do not share the Zoom link. It is for presenters only, used solely to streamline the screen-sharing process. The event is not recorded.
Calendar Invite
Do not forward the calendar invite. All guests must register to attend this closed event.
Audience
The audience is a mix of the CSAIL community, CSAIL Alliances members, and invited guests from the MIT and surrounding startup ecosystem.
Seating During Pitches
Once the session begins, please remain in your seat for the duration of the pitches. If you need to leave, please do so only during a transition between presenters to limit disruptions.
Q&A Protocol
1. Allow the sponsor to ask their questions first. They often cover common topics.
2. If your question remains and time allows, raise your hand.
3. If there is no time left, please use the post-pitch networking session to speak with the venture.
Pitching Deadline
If you are not seated before 10:00 AM sharp, you will not be allowed to pitch. "Just before" your pitch time is considered late. This rule is strictly enforced.
Locating the Room
The room is always listed in the calendar invite you receive, as well as on the registration form you filled out to pitch, and on the CSAIL Alliances website. Please plan to navigate the building and find the room in the days prior to the breakfast.
Pitch Time Limit
You have a total of 10 minutes for your presentation. This limit includes computer setup, the pitch, and any time you wish to allocate for Q&A. This time is strict.
Slides Format
All slides must be in Keynote or PowerPoint format. Avoid Adobe, Canva, or other formats, as they often lead to screen-share, internet, and setup issues, which will cut into your 10-minute window.
Schedule & Zoom Access
The complete schedule (including your pitch order) and the Zoom link will be emailed to all presenters the morning of the breakfast, during the networking session. Pro Tip: Join the Zoom link prior to your pitch time to eliminate setup delays.