Tools for Creating and Editing Video Pitches

Your startup pitch video for Venture Madness 2014 does not have to be a professionally filmed production. In fact, the more genuine it is, the better chance voters will recognize you as the fledgling startup that you are. Skip the fancy stuff. You can create inexpensive footage on your own, using a smartphone, apps and some editing skills.

Magisto – Free

This app uses automatic editing algorithms (aka artificial intelligence) to create videos based on moods that the users select and sets them music from the Magisto library. It’s available on both Google and iOS.

Muvee –  $499

Muvee Reveal 11 is a software editing program for small businesses. It offers a 15-day free trial, and those videos are limited to 60 seconds maximum. Try the mobile “express” app for $14.99 in iTunes; users give it 4.5 out of 5 stars.

WeVideo – $19.99 per month

Twenty dollars a month gets two users access to this cloud-based video creation platform and 20GB of storage. Because it’s a web-based platform, it requires no software installation. Google Play store users give the app version four out of five stars. Also available in iOS.

Fiverr – $5

Ok, the truth is, it’s not really $5. Fiverr is a freelance marketplace where you can find writers, graphic designers, video editors and more, starting at $5. You shoot video, send the files to your freelancer and he or she edits it the way you want it. They can add graphics, animation, sound and music.

Windows Movie Maker – Free

PCMag.com gives it four out of five stars and says it’s one of the simplest and most fun video editing programs. If you’ve got a newer PC with Windows, Movie Maker likely came loaded on your machine. If not, you can download it for free if you have the right system requirements.

Apple iMovie 10.0 – Free or $14.99

PCMag.com gives this Windows rival 4.5 out of five stars because of its attractive features, audio tools and theater features that work across all Apple platforms. It’s easy to use and comes loaded on new Macs.

The bottom line is, you will find dozens of websites, services and software programs that can help you create great videos, so don’t let the video part of the application stop you from applying for Venture Madness 2014.  Your application video isn’t about whether you can make a good movie; it allows judges to learn something about you and your product or service.

Winning applications will be chosen because:

  • They demonstrate great potential for success and innovation.

  • The entrepreneurs show passion for and belief in their products or services.

  • Founders demonstrate a need for the product or service (backed up with facts).

  • They have a business plan, business model and revenue projections.

  • They offer competitive edge.

  • Their management teams have what it takes to see the project through.
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