Ninja Pitch – The New Event Format for Founders in and beyond Düsseldorf by StartupDorf in Cooperation with WHU

2 minutes. No slides. Full attention.

On June 11, 2025, we’re launching Ninja Pitch & Networking – a fast-paced new event format powered by StartupDorf and the WHU – Otto Beisheim School of Management, Campus Düsseldorf.

Why a Pitch Format?

Pitch events are more than competitions – they are performance labs for founders.
They push you to communicate your idea clearly, convincingly, and with impact. Or as Karin Klein, founding partner at Bloomberg Beta, puts it:

“Simplicity is helpful and shows a clarity of vision and the ability to sell.”

The Ninja Pitch is a perfect addition to our well-known Unicorn Pitch Series.

While the Unicorn Pitch gives startups a stage to explain their model with visuals, slides, and Q&A, the Ninja Pitch challenges them to get straight to the point – with nothing but their voice and idea. It’s about storytelling, clarity, and message discipline. (- Hanns Tappen)

What is the Ninja Pitch?

At the Ninja Pitch, 4–6 selected startups get exactly 2 minutes to present their idea – verbally only, no slides, no deck.
Just your story. Pure and powerful.

A jury composed of a WHU representative and a StartupDorf board member selects the winning team, which earns:

• An extended Spotlight Pitch at the end of the evening

• A dedicated feedback session from the jury

• A Wildcard spot at the second Ninja Pitch in October 2025

• The chance to qualify for the Unicorn Pitch Grand Final 2025

Why this format matters

Clarity over show. Focus over flash.
If you can convince in 2 minutes, you’ve truly understood your core proposition.

The Ninja Pitch puts founders to the test – in the best sense.
It’s a platform for authentic, direct startup communication that brings together international talent, startup energy, and an honest community vibe.

What to expect

• 4–6 bold startup pitches in 2 minutes each

• Jury decision & Spotlight Pitch

• Open networking with founders, investors, and ecosystem enablers

• A welcoming, diverse community spirit

• International ideas with local impact

Apply or grab your ticket now

Location: WHU Campus Düsseldorf, Erkrather Straße 224a
Date: Wednesday, June 11, 2025
Time: Doors open at 6:00 pm, event starts at 6:30 pm

• [Get your eventbrite ticket now → https://www.eventbrite.de/e/1363036351419 ]

• Startup? Founder? Want to pitch? Apply now →
  

Conclusion: 2 minutes can change everything

The Ninja Pitch is where clarity meets courage.
Whether you’re pitching, watching, or networking – you’ll leave with new connections, new insights, and a better story.

Let’s pitch like ninjas 🥷 .

FAQ – At a glance

• What is the Ninja Pitch?
  A 2-minute live pitch format – no slides allowed, verbal only.

• Who can pitch?
  Early-stage startups with a clear vision and the courage to deliver it directly.

• How to apply?
  Submit your application at startupdorf.de/ninja-pitch

• What does the winning startup receive?
  A final spotlight pitch, detailed jury feedback, and a wildcard for the October edition.

• When is the next Ninja Pitch?
  First Ninja Pitch June 11 at WHU Campus Düsseldorf.
  Second Ninja Pitch October 8, 2025, at HEUKING Düsseldorf.

• Where can I get tickets?
  Tickets are available via our StartupDorf Ticket Store at Eventbrite